Food Preparation for A La Carte & Buffets
Food Preparation for A La Carte & Buffets
BUFFETS
MODULE DESCRIPTOR : This module deals with the knowledge, skills, behavior and
motivations required to plan and prepare foods for ala carte
and buffet situations.
LO2. Prepare, produce and present foods for ala carte and buffets
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. The ala carte and buffet is planned according to enterprise and/or customer
requirements
2. Appropriate food items are selected according to season, budget, occasion and
customer requirements.
3. Food cost is calculated in accordance with budget and reporting requirements
4. Layout and display of the buffet are planned, in accordance with the type of food,
occasion and desired theme.
5. Buffet centerpieces & decoration are designed organized and produced
according to enterprise procedures.
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References/recipe books
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture/discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
LO2. PREPARE, PRODUCE AND PRESENT FOODS FOR ALA CARTE AND BUFFETS
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Appropriate methods of cookery are used to prepare meats, poultry, seafood and
other foods for ala carte and buffets.
2. Buffet items are glazed with aspic or gelatin preparations according to acceptable
enterprise standards
3. Sauces and garnishes suitable for ala carte and buffet food items are produced.
4. Meats are carved and served according to enterprise standards.
5. Hot and cold foods are served and presented according to health and hygiene
regulations.
6. Portion control is applied to minimize wastage and maximize profit.
7. Food items are attractively and tastefully arranged and presented to maximize
appeal.
8. Desserts suitable for ala carte and buffet presentation are prepared and
produced using standard and/or enterprise recipes
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts/Recipe books
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture/discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
Sampling of buffet items prepared by the candidate
LO3. STORE ALA CARTE AND BUFFET ITEMS
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Store ala carte and buffet items hygienically and correctly before and after the
service time at a safe temperature.
2. Proper portioning for storage must be undertaken, together with dates to facilitate
“first in, first out” procedures.
CONTENT:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients/food items
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture/discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PLAN AND CONTROL MENU-BASED CATERING
MODULE DESCRIPTOR : This module deals with the basic planning, preparing and
controlling of menu-based catering within established
enterprise systems.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Sample menus and menu cards
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture/Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
Evaluation of samples of menus prepared by the candidate
LO2. CONTROL MENU-BASED CATERING
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS:
Production schedule
Recipe/Menu Costing
Yield testing and portion control
Controlling labor costs
Different kitchen forms and their uses e.g. production planning sheets, daily
kitchen reports, spoilage reports
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Sample menus, production schedules, catering plans and checklists
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture/discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Oral questioning
Review of samples of menus, production schedules, security plans and checklists
prepared by the candidate.
LO3. PRACTICE PORTION CONTROL
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients/food items
Calculator
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture/discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
UNIT OF COMPETENCY : ORGANIZE BULK COOKING OPERATIONS
MODULE DESCRIPTOR : This module deals with the skills, knowledge, behavior and
motivations required to provide on-the-job coaching to
colleagues. It reflects the situation in many hospitality
workplaces where “buddy” systems and on job coaching are
extremely common.
LO4. Use preparation and cooking techniques appropriate to the bulk cooking system.
LO1. PLAN KITCHEN OPERATIONS FOR BULK COOKING
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients/Food items
Sample menus, production schedules, catering plans and checklists
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture/Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
Review of sample menus, production schedules, security plans and checklists
prepared by the candidate.
LO2. ORGANIZE PRODUCTION OF BULK COOKING MENUS
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Preparation and service of orders are organized for the relevant section of the
kitchen to enable smooth workflow and to minimize delays.
2. The sequence of dishes is controlled to enable smooth workflow and minimize
delays.
3. Quality control in all stages of preparation is exercised with focus on design, eye
appeal and portion size.
4. Appropriate receiving, storing and cleaning procedures are established and
correctly followed
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients/food items
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture/Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
Sampling of dishes prepared as part of a bulk cooking operation.
LO3. SELECT SYSTEMS FOR BULK COOKING
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Appropriate food production systems are selected for bulk cooking according to
relevant factors.
2. Appropriate equipment is identified to assist production and cooking operations
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
LO4. USE PREPARATION AND COOKING TECHNIQUES APPROPRIATE TO THE
BULK COOKING SYSTEM
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Menu items, which are compatible with the type of system chosen, are selected.
2. Specialty recipes are prepared and served taking into account the type of food
service system.
3. Food is prepared using methods which take into account the effects of different
methods of preparation on nutrition quality and structure.
4. Systems and equipment are safely and hygienically used.
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture/Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PLAN, PREPARE AND DISPLAY A BUFFET
MODULE DESCRIPTOR : This module deals with the advanced skills and knowledge
required to design, plan, prepare and display a buffet
creatively.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Total concept, food items and displays are designed as required, in consultation
with customers and other relevant personnel.
2. Buffets are planned according to the required theme or occasion, in consultation
with customers and other relevant personnel.
3. An appropriate range and quality of food items are selected and organized giving
consideration to quality and price according to the enterprise or customer
requirements.
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
List of buffet food items
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Appropriate service equipment, service ware and linen are selected to display
food and decorations.
2. Tables and service points are planned and arranged so they are suitable for
buffet display and service according to establishment requirements, occasion and
efficient safe customer/staff accessibility.
3. Food presentation is prepared or organized with artistic flair and according to
establishment standards or customer requirements.
4. Appropriate and attractive decorations and centerpieces are selected and
prepared or organized as required.
5. All preparations and arrangements for buffet are coordinated to all concerned
individuals.
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients/buffet items
Buffet service ware and equipment
Buffet tables
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
LO3. DISPLAY FOOD ITEMS
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Food items are displayed with a sense of artistry to create customer appeal.
2. Garnishes and accompaniments are used to enhance taste and appeal.
3. Buffet service is supervised to ensure that food items are replenished and that
the total display remains neat and attractive.
CONTENTS:
Buffet presentation
Preparing food garnishes
Buffet service
CONDITIONS:
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
Food items for garnishing
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
Evaluation of a buffet (content and presentation)
LO4. PRESENT BUFFET IN A SAFE AND HYGIENIC MANNER
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
Buffet display
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
UNIT OF COMPETENCY : SELECT, PREPARE AND SERVE SPECIALIZEDFOOD
ITEMS
MODULE DESCRIPTOR : This module deals with the skills and knowledge required to
plan, prepare and present food items at an advanced and
specialized level, using a variety of non-standard food items
and the related specialized techniques. It covers the
preparation and service of specialty cuisines as part of a
general menu as well those offered by enterprises which
specialize in particular menu items
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients/food items
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Oral questioning.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning.
LO4. IMPLEMENT HYGIENIC AND SAFE PRACTICES
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Potential hygiene and safety problems are identified and appropriate preventative
measures are taken to eliminate risk in the preparation of specialized food items.
2. Specialized food items are stored hygienically and correctly.
CONTENTS:
Food safety
Preventing health and safety hazards in the preparation of specialized food items
Storing specialized food items.
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning.
UNIT OF COMPETENCY : SELECT, PREPARE AND SERVE SPECIALTY CUISINES
MODULE DESCRIPTOR : This module deals with the skills and knowledge required in
the preparation and service of a range of specialized items
offered by enterprises which specialize in particular cuisine
style.
LO3. Select and use equipment and techniques for preparation, cooking and service.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Authentic menus and menu items are planned for a specialized cuisine to meet
enterprise and customer requirements.
2. Seasonality and general availability of ingredients are taken into account when
developing menus and choosing menu items.
3. Menu items are priced to achieved satisfactory profit levels and satisfy enterprise
requirements.
4. Menus and promotional materials are developed to focus on menu items within a
specialized cuisine.
5. Décor and setting are planned according to specialized cuisine, cultural
considerations and enterprise focus.
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References/menus
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
Specialized and ethnic recipes
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
LO2. SELECT AND PURCHASE FOOD FOR MENU ITEMS
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Menu items, which are appropriate to the cuisine styles, are selected taking into
consideration quality, price, seasonal availability and enterprise requirements.
2. Suitable suppliers of standard and specialized food items are sourced.
3. Suppliers are selected according to quality, price and enterprise requirements.
4. Wastage is minimized through appropriate purchase and storage, taking into
account any special requirements.
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Ethnic menus and recipes
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
LO3. SELECT AND USE EQUIPMENT AND TECHNIQUES FOR PREPARATION,
COOKING AND SERVICE
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Specialized utensils and cooking equipment are identified and used to produce
authentic menu items.
2. Appropriate preparation methods and utensils are used according to the style and
requirements of the cuisine.
3. Tables are set and decorated according to cuisine and enterprise requirements.
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients/food items
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
UNIT OF COMPETENCY : APPLY COOK-CHILL-FREEZE PRODUCTION
PROCESSES
L01. Ensure goods received conform to the appropriate food hygiene and health
standards.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS:
Methods of Receiving
Receiving and Storing Procedures
Keeping Foods Safe in Storage/ Storage Guidelines
Returning Unsatisfactory Merchandise
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
Food items
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Oral questioning
Observation
Evaluation of food quality
LO2. PREPARE AND COOK FOOD TO MEET INDUSTRY SAFETY STANDARDS
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Raw food and ingredients are checked for potential deterioration prior to
preparation.
2. Food is cooked to specified internal temperatures.
3. Microbiological and chemical changes are kept within safe tolerances.
4. Quality of food is maintained at the optimum level in terms of taste and
appearance.
5. Food is portioned and packaged following required procedures and using correct
containers for freezing where necessary.
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
Food items
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Oral questioning
Observation
Evaluation of food quality
LO3. CHILL COOKED FOOD
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Time and temperature standards are met for blast and water-bath chilling
2. Food quality is maintained throughout the chilling process.
CONTENTS:
Blast Chilling
Water-bath chilling
Cook-Chill Systems and Procedures
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
Food items
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Oral questioning
Observation
Evaluation of food quality
LO4. FREEZE COOKED FOOD
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Food items
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Oral questioning
Observation
Evaluation of food quality
LO5. STORE COOKED FOOD UNDER REFRIGERATION
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS:
Storing procedures
Refrigerated Storages
Efficiency in Use of Refrigerated Storages
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Food items
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Oral questioning
Observation
Evaluation of food quality
LO6. DISTRIBUTE COOK-CHILL / FROZEN PRODUCTS
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
Food items
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Hands-on
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Oral questioning
Observation
Evaluation of food quality
UNIT OF COMPETENCY : MONITOR CATERING REVENUE AND COSTS
MODULE DESCRIPTOR : This module deals with the skills and knowledge required
to establish and monitor the costs involved in operating a
food service operation.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Appropriate basic systems for purchasing and ordering are established and
implemented to maximize quality and minimize costs and wastage.
2. Systems for storing food items are established and maintained to avoid
deterioration, wastage, theft and spoilage.
3. Stock records are systematically and regularly updated following established
standard operational procedures.
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Real ingredients
Food items
Sample forms used in purchasing, receiving, issuing and storing
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Written exercises
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Observation
Oral questioning
LO2. ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN FINANCIAL CONTROL SYSTEM
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Sample financial and cost control records
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Written exercises
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Oral questioning
Case studies
LO3. MAINTAIN PRODUCTION CONTROL SYSTEM
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
Kitchen forms, schedules and worksheets
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Oral questioning
Case studies
LO4. SELECT AND UTILIZE TECHNOLOGY
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Computers with appropriate software
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Hands-on exercises
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Oral questioning
UNIT OF COMPETENCY : ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN QUALITY CONTROL
MODULE DESCRIPTOR : This module deals with the knowledge and skills required
to ensure that high standards of food quality are
established and maintained in a commercial kitchen
environment. These tasks are generally undertaken by a
qualified cook or chef who also has some supervisory
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
1. Appropriate procedures are applied to ensure the quality of menu items with
regard to:
- Raw materials
- Cooking processes
- Portion control
- Presentation
2. Products and services are ensured consistent with enterprise requirements.
3. Food items are ensured to match menu descriptions.
CONTENTS:
CONDITIONS:
The students/trainees must be provided with the following:
Writing materials
References
Handouts
Fully-equipped operational commercial kitchen
METHODOLOGIES:
Lecture
Discussion
Demonstration
Hands-on
Video viewing
ASSESSMENT METHODS:
Written test
Practical test
Oral questioning
Observation
Review of documents related to quality systems including policies and
procedures
Evaluation of food quality