Thanksgiving, Christmas, and even simple birthday celebrations merit preparation of different types of dishes. Among the many recipes popular during these times, the most loved are roasted dishes. From the roasted turkeys of Thanksgiving Day to the roasted meats and vegetables served during Christmases and birthdays, roasted foods are definite must haves. Preparing such type of dishes makes use of roasting tray which should be carefully chosen in order to produce that perfect roast.

Roasted dished require the use of a roasting tray. This is essential in preparing a holiday turkey but can also be sue to prepare all sorts of roasted dishes that can be enjoyed all year round. Such tool can be used under the boiler or in the oven depending on the preference of the individual. Various sizes, designs and styles are offered in the market along with the different material types also sold such as silicone, heat treated glass, enamel and ceramic. All roasting trays are also designed to be able to withstand intense heat.

Roasting trays usually make use of racks that are places inside the pan in order to let the meat sit atop and have the fat and juice drippings separated. This rack identifies the shallowness or depth of the tray which is one way of classifying roasting trays. Shallow roasting pans no longer require the use of racks and can be used to prepare large cuts of meat. On the other hand, large and deep roasting pans are ones that can hold vegetables and meat all at once. Such type of pan can also be used as a baking dish or basin.

Material is another way of identifying roasting tray types. Aluminum trays are one of the most popular types as they are cheaper and can be easily disposed after a single use. The stainless steel tray is another type which usually offers non stick coating that fits well for turkey roasting. The third and fourth types are the coated enamelware and cast iron trays which have non stick surface and good conductor respectively. Finally are the clay cookers which produce perfect golden brown roasts.

Choosing the best and right type of roasting tray can be very difficult especially with the different types and brands being offered in the market. Oven size is the first thing that needs to be checked when choosing. Make sure that the oven is measured before hand in order that the pan you will buy will fit inside. Material is another consideration when choosing. Among the most popular to cooks these days are the non stick types since they can be easily cleaned. For those who don’t mind cleaning, stainless steel and aluminum pans are much preferred as they can also be used for deglazing. Strong fixed handles are also important especially when lifting hot and heavy pans. Finally, make sure that you consider the shape of the tray you will be buying. Pans with oval shapes are great for turkey roasting and can be limiting, while rectangular pans with rounded corners can be used for wide variety of dishes.

The right type of roasting tray for one person does not necessarily mean that it is also the best for another person. Remember that best type is the one that works for you.

Marjorie Stewart, who currently resides in Germany, enjoys cooking. One of her specialty is roasted dishes wherein she carefully chooses the appropriate type of of roasting tray or “Gusseisen Braeter” (as they call it in German) to use.