Recently, Evolve Care Group hosted their second catering training day, emphasising their dedication to continuous improvement and striving for excellence in mealtime experiences across their care homes in the Southwest. Building on the momentum of their first session in June, 25 catering team members gathered once again at Nisbets, the National Catering Equipment Centre in Bristol, reflecting the crucial role ongoing training plays in achieving their commitment to being better every day.
This training day focused on sustainability in catering, encouraging teams to explore innovative methods for reducing waste, creatively repurposing surplus ingredients, and adapting simple recipes into popular favourites. Sustainability is essential in catering as it not only reduces environmental impact but also promotes efficient use of resources, ensuring future generations can enjoy the benefits of a healthy planet. The catering teams were taught how to prepare three basic soup recipes, with Chef Joe Oliver from Creed Foodservice demonstrating how to elevate each one with just a few additional ingredients. In addition to soups, the teams experimented with making bread in various shapes and flavours, showcasing how small, mindful changes can lead to significant positive outcomes in both flavour and sustainability.
The session also addressed the needs of residents, fondly referred to as family members, who require a pureed diet. Teams were shown how to present pureed food in a more visually appealing way, ensuring it closely resembles formed food; for instance, moulding pureed carrots into the shape of a carrot. Joe Oliver highlighted the importance of the mealtime experience by saying, “The meals prepared by these kitchen teams could be among the most meaningful moments for family members, which is why every meal should feel special.”
Others noted how they were motivated by seeing their progress from the last session and felt proud of turning a simple dish like soup into something that could bring much pleasure.
The next catering training day will be held on the 28th of November and will have a Christmas theme. The catering teams will also be asked to demonstrate their soup-making adjustments, allowing them to transfer the skills they’ve gained since the last session.
For more information about catering roles within Evolve Care Group, please contact us
Nisbets National Catering Equipment Centre: Visit Nisbets