Have you wondered why do chefs wear tall white hats in the kitchen? Tap to know the surprising reasons to boost your kitchen knowledge!
The history of the chef’s hat dates back to the 18th century. An expert chef, Marie-Antoine Carême, is known to have introduced the chef’s white hat and long coats. He wore an 18-inch-tall chef hat.
The chef’s hat is a symbol of hierarchy and expertise associated with the art and skill of cooking. The most experienced chef would wear the tallest hat, while the lower ranks would wear shorter versions of the hat.
According to NDTV Food, the tall white hat worn by the chef is called the toque or toque blanche. Toque or toque blanche is the literal meaning of white hat.
The toque is worn by chefs in the kitchen as a symbol of their expertise. If the hats had 100 pleats, it was claimed that the chef knows 100 ways to cook an egg. There are other practical functions of the hat too.
The chefs wear white tall hats or toques in the kitchen to maintain food standards. The hat prevents hair from falling into the food. It keeps the hair firmly in place.
Wearing a toque is important in the kitchen to maintain hygiene in food preparation. The hat prevents dandruff or sweat from contaminating the food. The hats are made up of breathable fabric.
During long shifts or hot, busy days in the kitchen, the hat keeps the chef cool and comfortable. The breathable fabric and structured design allow air circulation to stay cool.
Wearing a toque or a toque blanche contributes to the overall professionalism and clean appearance of the chefs. It is a sign of respect for the tradition and kitchen culture.
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