Ideal for buffets, banquet halls, and larger scale catering events where food must be kept warm and ready for service, our range of high-quality stainless steel bain maries are available with both round pots and gastronorms.

Our range of electric models, including both dry and wet heat options, are perfect for holding foods like sauces, soups, vegetables, and hot dishes at a safe serving temperature for hours at a time, without losing their integrity or flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bain Maries

What is a bain marie ideal for?

A bain marie is designed for gently heating foods, or holding them at the perfect temperature. This can include sauces or gravy, and pre-cooked foods like chilli, curry, or soup, allowing chefs to keep them at a safe serving temperature for extended periods.

What is the difference between a bain marie and a hot cupboard?

While both bain maries and hot cupboards serve the purpose of keeping food warm, they operate differently. A bain marie uses a water bath to gently heat food containers, ideal for maintaining moisture and preventing food from drying out. In contrast, a hot cupboard relies on dry heat to warm dishes, often featuring shelves or trays for storage.

Why do they call it a bain marie?

Latin for 'Mary's bath', the bain marie has been said to have been invented by an alchemist called Mary since at least 300 AD. The technique involves placing a container of food in a larger pan of hot water to ensure gentle and even heating. This method is commonly used in cooking to keep delicate foods warm or to cook dishes that require gentle heat, making it a popular choice in professional kitchens.