On top of your shopping list for your gelato venture should be the gelato freezer. The gelato freezer is a major component in your business, perhaps the most important apparatus in your shop or stall.
The wrong kind of gelato freezer will compromise the quality of your gelato products. Every gelateria has a dependable freezer, dependent on several factors such as the number of flavors and the quantity of gelato to be served everyday.
Making gelato is essentially the same as making ice cream, except for a few modifications in the ingredients. Gelato has lower butterfat content than ice cream but it has higher sugar content.
Like the ice cream, a batch of gelato can last in a gelato freezer for months. However, some gelato experts say that homemade gelato can only last for several days. Furthermore, specialty gelato will only last at very consistent low temperatures.
You have to decide whether you want a push cart freezer or a stationary gelato freezer. Push cart freezers are designed for convenience and mobility. However, keep in mind that you will only be selling limited flavors with a push cart freezer.
Think 3-4 flavors in this case. Make sure that the push cart comes with necessary holders for cones, cups, spoons, and other utilities. Don’t forget the umbrella too.
Since gelato is softer and lighter than ice cream, they really look pretty when displayed. Get the freezer with the glass display to showcase the gelato. The normal containers of gelato are similar to a loaf tray.
Study the pan capacity of the gelato freezer. As much as possible, you would like to get a freezer with a raised container level to show off the different colors and textures. You can either have one or two rows, depending on how many flavors you would like to sell.
The interiors of a gelato freezer should typically be made of stainless steel to keep the gelato chilled easily. The ambient temperature of the freezer should be around 28 degrees Celsius and the internal temperature between -18 to -16 degrees. Keep the gelato tasting fresh by storing in a freezer that maintains a constant temperature with forced-air ventilation.
A second-hand or used gelato freezer is a good idea, just as long as the equipment is fully functioning. Just make sure that the thermometer and the cooling system are working properly to assure that the gelato maintains its ideal firmness.