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What Temperature Should The Bread Warming Drawer Be At To Keep My Potatoes Warm?

Q:

I saw your post with someone asking what is the best method for keeping baked potatoes warm all day and you answered that a bread warming drawer would be best. What temperature should the drawer be at? Also, if I do not sell enough at the end of the day could I put them in the refrigerator and reuse the potatoes again the next day?

A:
  1. Bread Warming Drawer Temperature: Bread warming drawers are often set to around 80-90°F (26-32°C) to keep bread warm without drying it out. For baked potatoes, you could aim for a similar temperature range. However, it's important to note that keeping baked potatoes warm for extended periods may alter their texture over time, causing them to become a bit dry on the outside.
  2. Refrigerating and Reusing Baked Potatoes: It's generally not recommended to refrigerate and reuse baked potatoes for the next day in a restaurant setting. Refrigeration can lead to changes in texture and flavor, and reheating baked potatoes can result in a less desirable eating experience. The texture might become mealy or rubbery, and the flavor might not be as appealing.

If you have leftover baked potatoes at the end of the day, you might consider alternative ways to utilize them. For example, you could repurpose them into potato-based dishes like potato soup, potato salad, or mashed potatoes. This way, you can provide your customers with fresh and delicious options rather than compromising on the quality of your main baked potato offerings.

When running a restaurant, it's important to prioritize the quality of the food you serve to ensure customer satisfaction. If you find that you consistently have a surplus of baked potatoes at the end of the day, you might consider adjusting your portion sizes or exploring creative menu items that incorporate baked potatoes in different ways.