Elevate Your Cooking: Top Tips for Premium Oils & Fats

We've collaborated with the team at Saporito Foods to help you elevate your cooking, frying, and baking techniques. In this post, we’ll share valuable tips and tricks on how to effectively use and maintain these products in your kitchen.

Understanding the Products + Uses

Liquid Fry Shortening 16L Pail (Product number: 460145)

Specially Designed for Deep Frying: This product is produced without partially hydrogenated oils, making it perfect for deep frying. It maintains stability at high temperatures, ensuring your fried foods come out crispy and delicious.

Usage Tip: Ideal for commercial deep fryers. Regularly filter the oil to extend its life and maintain food quality.

Canola Oil 16L Pail (Product number: 448271)

Low Saturated Fat Content: Canola oil contains the lowest level of saturated fatty acids among vegetable oils, making it a healthier option for various cooking methods.

Usage Tip: Perfect for sautéing, stir-frying, baking, and as a base for salad dressings. Store in a cool, dark place to preserve its quality.

Soya Margarine Yellow 13kg (Product number: 210341)

Great Flavour and Smooth Texture: Made from a blend of non-hydrogenated soya and vegetable oils, this margarine offers a cost-competitive formula without compromising on taste and texture.

Usage Tip: Excellent for baking and spreading. Ensure it is kept refrigerated to maintain its consistency and flavour.

Total Beef® Deep Fry Shortening 20kg (Product number: 460257)

Non-Hydrogenated Frying Shortening: Ideal for deep-frying French fries, poultry, and finger foods. This product ensures a crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Usage Tip: Regularly monitor the temperature of your fryer to avoid overheating, which can break down the shortening and affect the taste of your food.

 Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

1. Regular Filtration: For oils used in deep frying, it's crucial to filter the oil daily. This removes food particles and extends the oil's usability.

2. Proper Storage: Always store oils and shortenings in a cool, dark place to prevent them from going rancid. Margarine should be kept refrigerated.

3. Monitoring Usage: Keep track of how many times you've used the oil. As a general rule, replace frying oil after 8-10 uses or when it starts to smoke at lower temperatures than usual.

4. Temperature Control: Maintain proper frying temperatures (typically around 350°F to 375°F). Overheating can degrade the oil faster and affect the quality of your food.

Why Choose Saporito Foods?

Saporito Foods is your trusted supplier for healthy, trans fat-free, premium quality oils, shortenings, and margarines. We pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive range of competitively priced, high-quality products, including canola oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, vegetable oil, blended oils, shortenings, and margarines suitable for both retail and food service markets. Whether you are cooking, frying, or baking, we have the right product to meet your needs.

For more information and to explore our full product range, visit  www.saporitofoods.com.

Good Leaf, Good Greens

Chefs have always used microgreens as a beautiful finishing touch to garnish their final dish, but did you know that microgreens can add benefits beyond their stunning looks?

GoodLeaf Farms is revolutionizing the way that microgreens are grown and taste through the powers of vertical farming. This innovative way of farming allows for these gorgeous greens to be grown in Ontario year-round, so you never have to worry about seasonality or availability. Their highly specialized growing methods and controlled environments allow for their microgreens to produce intense, delicious flavours that can be used to add to meals and used in creative ways. One of the standout features of Good Leaf products is that they are never touched by pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, or even human hands until they reach their final destination. This commitment to "Pure" farming ensures the utmost purity and quality.

Here's 4 Ways Chefs can use Microgreens for more than just a Garnish:

1. Swap the Lettuce for Microgreens: Using our Kick'n Micro Mustard on a Burger or Sandwich creates an intense mustardy flavour without the sauce, while still providing all the freshness of traditional lettuce. 
2. Use as an Alternative to Herbs: Swap in Intensely Arugula Micros instead of basil in pesto to give a uniquely nutty and pepper twist. Zesty Micro Radish also makes a delicious addition to chimichurri adding zip and zest (as well as a bright purple colour) to this classic sauce!
3. Elevate customers dining experience: Adding Baby Arugula to pizza isn't new - but no one like to take a bite and had this green pull off all at once. Elevate your customers experience by swapping this for Micro Arugula. The much smaller, more delicate leaves mean a kick of peppery arugula in every bite!"
4. Add Spice to any Dish: Use the Zesty Micro Radish as a staple ingredient to tacos to add an extra hit of spice; or mix in Kick'n Micro Mustard to Rice or Quinoa for some extra flavour (no chopping required)!

No matter the dish, GoodLeaf nutrient-dense microgreens are a simple and creative way for chefs to add flavours and colours to increase customers’ dining experience!"

2024 Food Show Product Review

The 2024 food show was our best yet! There was so much energy in the building, we are so grateful that our customers, suppliers and employees put so much effort to make the day as wonderful as it was. If you weren’t able to come, here were some of our favourite products of the day:

With hundreds of innovative products to see and an array of delicious samples to taste, the Flanagan Show truly showcased the best of what the food industry has to offer. For those who couldn't make it this year, we missed having you with us and sincerely hope you'll be able to join the excitement next time. I may be biased (okay, I am definitely biased), but the Flanagan Show stands unrivaled as the premier foodshow in Ontario. Here's to hoping we see you next year!

The Marvels of Atlantic Salmon: A Protein Powerhouse

Atlantic Salmon, a name synonymous with health and taste, is not just a fish but a symbol of nutrition and a sustainable food source.

Health Benefits of Atlantic Salmon

If you are looking for a healthy protein source for your menu, Atlantic salmon should be your go-to choice. Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, it helps reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease risk factors for diseases. Additionally, it is an excellent source of vitamin D, selenium, and B vitamins which are crucial for maintaining optimal health.

Comparing Atlantic and Pacific Salmon

The taste can vary based on diet, habitat, and species, but generally, wild Pacific salmon is said to have a stronger flavour and more red-orange flesh, while Atlantic salmon has a milder flavour and paler flesh.

When comparing Atlantic and Pacific salmon, one cannot ignore the flavour variations among the five wild species of Pacific salmon. Each species brings a unique flavour profile to the table, from the rich, buttery Sockeye to the delicate, mild Pink salmon. However, the availability of wild Pacific salmon is highly seasonal and not available year-round. In contrast, the Atlantic salmon, renowned for its mildly sweet flavour and delicate texture, is readily available throughout the year thanks to aquaculture.

The Positive Side of Aquaculture

Aquaculture, in particular, plays a significant role in making Atlantic salmon accessible to consumers worldwide. It has revolutionized the seafood industry by providing a constant, year-round supply of high-quality fish. Moreover, it contributes to global food security and economic growth.

The Global Sourcing of Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic salmon is sourced from many countries around the world. However, Canadian aquaculture stands out due to its exceptional levels of sustainability and traceability that other countries often lack. Canada's rigorous regulations ensure the health of the fish and the environment, making it a trustworthy source for Atlantic salmon.

Cooking Versatility

Its distinct buttery and rich taste, coupled with a firm and flaky texture, make it an excellent option for grilling, baking, or broiling. Not only does it deliver exceptional flavour, but it is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to create both indulgent and light dishes to suit any culinary vision.

To tantalize your customers taste buds, here are a few ideas:
grilled salmon with roasted potatoes and steamed vegetables,
pan-seared salmon with mango avocado salsa,
baked salmon with lemon caper sauce and fettuccine,
salmon Caesar salad with homemade croutons,
and salmon and sweet potato shepherds pie.

From its unforgettable taste to its limitless serving possibilities, fresh Atlantic salmon is undeniably a must-have for any establishment.

With a sprinkle of creativity and a dash of experimentation in the kitchen, your restaurant can provide your customers with an unforgettable dining experience.

Did you know?

Grille and Galley Atlantic salmon is from the Canadian east coast, ensuring the freshest product for our customers. The Canadian product is not only fresh but also versatile. It comes in whole fish and various sizes of fillets, catering to different culinary needs. Custom portions are also available. Talk to your Territory Manager for more information.

Waffle Wonderland:

Delightful Dishes for a Memorable Mother's Day Brunch

Maximizing efficiency while delivering exceptional culinary experiences is the key to managing the bustling energy of Mother's Day-one of the busiest days in a restaurant s calendar.

A delicious, time-saving suggestion that may work for your Mother's Day menu is pre-made Belgian waffles. They are more than just a time-saving convenience; they are the canvas for an array of unique and tantalizing toppings that will set your establishment apart. By using pre-made waffles, you significantly reduce preparation time and kitchen chaos, allowing your team to focus on crafting exquisite toppings and delivering impeccable service. Moreover, these waffles ensure consistency in both taste and presentation.

This Mother's Day, let these five waffle creations dazzle your clientele, leaving them with a memorable dining experience that they will fondly associate with your restaurant.

Rise n Shine Waffle Delight

For the traditional breakfast lovers, offer waffles topped with crispy bacon and a perfectly cooked over-easy egg. The rich, runny yolk adds an indulgent touch, turning a simple waffle into a hearty meal that will keep your guests fueled for their Mother's Day activities.

Seaside Brunch Waffle Delicacy

Elevate your brunch menu with this sophisticated take on the classic waffle. Start a layer of tangy cream cheese. Top with delicate slices of smoked salmon, adding a luxurious, smoky flavour that is irresistible. Add thin slices of avocado for taste and a pop of colour.

Banana Bliss Almond Crunch Waffles

A light and refreshing option, this dish combines the sweetness of bananas with the tanginess of yogurt and the crunch of almonds. It is a healthy, satisfying choice that caters to the health-conscious guests and those seeking a lighter brunch option.

Southern Charm Chicken Waffles

This Southern classic is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy fried chicken atop a waffle creates a delightful contrast of textures. Drizzled with a touch of honey or maple syrup, this dish offers a perfect balance of savoury and sweet.

Orchard Harvest Honey-Nut Waffles

For a sweet end to the brunch, serve waffles topped with baked apples, a sprinkle of crunchy nuts, and a drizzle of honey. This dessert-like dish adds a festive touch to the menu, and the comforting flavours are a fitting tribute to the comforting presence of mothers.