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Keeping food Hot at a Christmas Fayre - Chafing Dishes?

by Rachel
(Yorkshire)

Food Stall at a Christmas Fayre

Food Stall at a Christmas Fayre

I am running a food stall at a Christmas Fayre. I have done this before with cakes, hot drinks and soup and done well but this year I'd like to try a hot dish such as a stew or hash. The problem is how to keep the food hot whilst also displaying it. I can hire chafing dishes but I would like to have the lid off. Will this keep the food hot enough though baring in mind it will be outside and December! If not any other ideas? There is no electricity to the pitch so I would be looking at gas appliances...Thanks guys!!

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Jan 06, 2025
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starstarstarstarstar 		Food Stall For Christmas
by: Zeta

Running a food stall at a Christmas Fayre is such a rewarding experience, especially with the festive atmosphere all around! Offering a hot dish like stew or hash is a brilliant idea for chilly December days—it’ll be a real crowd-pleaser. Keeping it hot while displaying it can be a bit of a challenge, but here’s some tried-and-tested advice from the world of outdoor catering:

Chafing Dishes Without Lids

Chafing dishes are a great option for outdoor events, but as you’ve suspected, leaving the lid off in cold weather can make it tricky to maintain the right temperature. They work well in sheltered indoor spaces, but in an outdoor December setting, the heat can escape too quickly, leaving the food lukewarm at best.

Better Alternatives:

Gas-Powered Bain-Marie:

A gas-powered bain-marie is ideal for this situation. It keeps food hot by using water baths to distribute heat evenly, and the constant flame underneath means it can handle the cold outdoor temperatures. You can keep the lid off for serving and presentation, as the heat from the water bath helps maintain temperature better than dry heat.
Look for models designed for outdoor use—they’re sturdy and reliable.

Catering Griddle with Cast Iron Pans:

Another option is to use a gas griddle or flat-top with heavy-duty cast iron or stainless steel pans. Keep the stew or hash simmering on a low flame and serve directly from the pans. Cast iron retains heat exceptionally well, even in colder weather, so it’s perfect for this setup.
Slow Cooker Pots on Portable Gas Burners:

If you already have slow cooker pots or similar serving containers, you could place them on portable gas ring burners. Keep the burners on a low setting to maintain the heat. This method is simple and works great for keeping dishes piping hot throughout the day.

Insulated Soup Kettles or Thermos Containers:

If you’re serving in batches, insulated soup kettles or high-capacity catering thermoses can keep your stew or hash hot for hours. While they’re not ideal for display, you can ladle portions into smaller pots on display and refill as needed.

Additional Tips for Outdoor Catering:
Protect from the Elements: Use a windbreak or insulated panels around your setup to help retain heat and protect the flame from gusts. Even a simple windscreen can make a big difference.
Serve Quickly: In the colder months, food cools quickly once served, so using smaller portions and encouraging customers to grab it while it’s hot works well.

Presentation Warmers: If presentation is important, you could use smaller chafing dishes or heat-retaining serving bowls for display, refilling from a main heated pot out of sight.
Practical Equipment Recommendations:
Gas-powered bain-marie or catering griddle: Check with local catering equipment hire companies for portable options.

Portable gas ring burners: Widely available and affordable to buy or hire.
Insulated soup kettles or containers: These can often be rented or purchased outright for repeated use.

Gas Bain Marie

Gas Ring Burner


I hope this helps, and I’m sure your customers will love a warm, hearty dish at the fayre. Best of luck, and don’t forget to enjoy the festive spirit while you’re at it! 🎄

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