Things to Remember…Equipment to Know

 Many garnishes require soaking in ice water… ◦ This allows sliced sections to separate and curl.  Some vegetable slices may need to be very flexible without breaking – soak them in a saltwater solution.  Preservation… ◦ Water is an excellent medium for preserving garnishes for a few days. ◦ Clear gelatin my be used to preserve garnishes and give them an attractive shine. ◦ Lemon juice or a vitamin C & water solution can help prevent oxidation. ◦ For longer preservation – freeze garnishes in a block of ice for 8-10 months.

 Working with particular foods… ◦ Soaking an onion or scallion in hot water with lemon for approximately 5 minutes can remove the odor. Then soak in ice water. ◦ Determine the ripeness of a watermelon by its color – a yellowish underside is a good sign of ripeness. ◦ Work with carrots, beets, and turnips at room temperature. ◦ Select fruits and vegetables that will best suit the garnish to be made.

 Presentation hints… ◦ Toothpicks and wooden skewers are essential elements when putting structures together. ◦ Floral tape may be used to secure and support vegetables. ◦ When presenting certain garnishes, a slice of raw potato can be used as a base for support. ◦ Craft supplies can sometimes add flair. ◦ Use food coloring to give garnishes more color. ◦ Try arranging vegetable platters, cheese trays, and centerpieces on a bed of greens.

Vegetable PeelerSpiral Slicer

Corrugated Garnishing Tool (Crinkle Cutter) Food Decorator

Twin Curl CuttersMandoline Slicer

Carving SetApple Corer

Apple WedgerMelon Baller

V-Shaped DecoratorU-Shaped Decorator