Service Planning Template
Determine production requirements
Confirm food production requirements
Analyse the standard recipe and associated food preparation list which you will be working from and
answer the following questions.
How many meals are required? Describe how you will ensure that the correct number of meals
are produced.
The meals required are seven meals.
To ensure the correct number of meals are produced, implement a robust inventory management
system to track ingredient quantities and forecast demand accurately. Utilize efficient production
scheduling to match meal output with demand fluctuations. Regularly audit production processes and
adjust quantities based on consumption patterns. Maintain open communication channels with
suppliers to prevent shortages or excess. Implement quality control measures to minimize waste and
ensure consistency.
Calculate the number of portions that you need (show your workings).
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International College of Australia Pty Ltd T/A Western Sydney College
RTO: 45360 | CRICOS: 03690M
Calculate the amount of each ingredient that you require. An ingredient list has been provided for
you or you may like to use your organisation’s standard template.
Ingredient list
Recipe: Chilli Crab
Ingredient Qty Qty/serves Qty x serves required
Blue swimmer crabs 4 green 4 green 4 green (uncooked)
(uncooked) (uncooked)
Peanut oil 2 2 tablespoon 2 tablespoon
tablespoon
Garlic cloves 3 3 3
Fresh small red chillies deseeded finely 3 3 3
chopped
Finely chopped fresh ginger 2 teaspoon 2 teaspoon 2 teaspoon
Purchased tomato sauce 60mls (1/4 60mls (1/4 60mls (1/4 cup)
cup) cup)
Chilli sauce 2 2 tablespoon 2 tablespoon
tablespoon
Sweet chilli sauce 2 2 tablespoon 2 tablespoon
tablespoon
Water 2 2 tablespoon 2 tablespoon
tablespoon
Dry sherry 2 2 tablespoon 2 tablespoon
tablespoon
Green shallots, chopped 3 3 3
Fresh coriander leaves 1/3 cup 1/3 cup 1/3 cup
Cooked white rice To serve To serve To serve
Recipe: Roasted Whole Snapper
Ingredient Qty Qty/serves Qty x serves required
Whole snapper (500-600g each) 2 2 2
Chat potatoes, halved 400g 400g 400g
Ground black pepper Salt and Salt and Salt and freshly
freshly freshly
Medium tomatoes, cored and sliced into 3 3 3
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rounds
Medium lemons, sliced into rounds 2 2 2
Garlic cloves, sliced 2 2 2
Rosemary sprigs ½ bunch ½ bunch ½ bunch
Thyme sprigs ½ bunch ½ bunch ½ bunch
Sage leaves ½ bunch ½ bunch ½ bunch
Bay leaves 4 or 5 4 or 5 4 or 5
Extra virgin olive oil As needed As needed As needed
Recipe: Asian style fish parcels
Ingredient Qty Qty/serves Qty x serves required
Silver beams (about 350g each) scaled, 4 whole 4 whole 4 whole
gutted and cleaned
Light olive oil For For greasing For greasing
greasing
Lime quartered 1 1 1
Fresh kaffir lime leaves 8 8 8
Chopped fresh coriander 1/3 cup 1/3 cup 1/3 cup
Soy sauce 2 2 tablespoon 2 tablespoon
tablespoon
Garlic cloves, crushed 2 2 2
Sesame oil 2 teaspoon 2 teaspoon 2 teaspoon
Lime, extra, juiced 1 1 1
Cooked jasmine rice To serve To serve To serve
Recipe: Mussels Provençale
Ingredient Qty Qty/serves Qty x serves required
Blue mussels 1,2kg 1,2kg 1,2kg
Shallots finely chopped 20g 20g 20g
Dry white wine 150ml 150ml 150ml
Fish stock 100ml 100ml 100ml
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Parsley stalks 10g 10g 10g
Bay leaf 1 1 1
Tomato concassed 80g 80g 80g
Chopped parsley 20g 20g 20g
Butter 40g 40g 40g
Flour 20g 20g 20g
Recipe: Spicy Prawn Laksa
Ingredient Qty Qty/serves Qty x serves required
Ayam Malaysian Laksa Paste 100g (1/3 100g (1/3 100g (1/3 cup)
cup) cup)
Coconut milk 400ml 400ml 400ml
250ml (1 cup) Water Water Water
Green prawns, peeled, tails intact 24 24 24
Dried rice stick noodles 200g 200g 200g
Green sprouts, trimmed 120g 120g 120g
Fresh Thai Basil, leaves picked To serve To serve To serve
Lime wedges To serve To serve To serve
Recipe: Classic Fish and Chips
Ingredient Qty Qty/serves Qty x serves required
Large potatoes, peeled and cut into strips 4 4 4
All-purpose flour 1 cup 1 cup 1 cup
Baking powder 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon
Ground black pepper 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon
Milk 1 cup 1 cup 1 cup
Egg 1 1 1
Vegetable oil for frying 1 quart 1 quart 1 quart
Cod fillets 1 ½ pounds 1 ½ pounds 1 ½ pounds
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Recipe: Chili Garlic Char-grilled Octopus
Ingredient Qty Qty/serves Qty x serves required
Medium octopus 1,5kg 1,5kg 1,5kg
Fresh long red chilies finely chopped 5 5 5
Cloves of garlic 6 6 6
Parsley Handful Handful Handful amount
amount amount
Olive oil 150ml 150ml 150ml
White wine 750ml 750ml 750ml
White vinegar 60ml 60ml 60ml
Rocket leaves 250g 250g 250g
Fresh mint leaves Handful Handful Handful amount
amount amount
Select the cookery method that you will use. Explain your decision.
Recipe: Chilli Crab
Step 1: To segment the crabs, lift the flap under the crab’s body with your thumb. With a firm hold, pull
off the top part of the shell with one hand while holding the body firmly with the other. Discard the top
shell. Remove and discard the spongy, finger-like white gills on either side of the body. Use a sharp
knife to cut each body in half. Halve each again. Use a nutcracker to crack the large claws (this allows
for even, faster cooking and easier removal of the meat).
Step 2: Heat the peanut oil in a wok over medium heat. Add the garlic, chilli and ginger and cook for
1-2 minutes or until aromatic. Add the tomato sauce, chilli sauce, sweet chilli sauce, water and sherry
and cook for 3-5 minutes or util slightly thickened.
Step 3: Add the carb piece to the sauce, stir well and cook covered, for 10-15 minutes or until the crab
is just cooked through (the meat will be white and no longer transparent when cooked).
Step 4: Stir through the green shallots and coriander leaves and serve immediately with the rice.
Recipe: Roasted Whole Snapper
Step 1: Preheat oven to 220C.
Step 2: Lightly score the skin of the fish, don’t cut too deep into the flesh.
Step 3: Arrange fish and potatoes over two large baking trays. Season fish cavities with salt and
pepper to taste, then fill with the tomatoes, half the lemon slices and a little each of the garlic,
rosemary, thyme and sage over the fish and potatoes. Drizzle with oil and season to taste with salt
and pepper.
Step 4: Roast fish until the skin is crisp and the flesh is just cooked through, about 20 minutes. the
potatoes should be crispy-brown and cooked through. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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Recipe: Asian style fish parcels
Step 1: Preheat oven to 180C.
Step 2: Briefly rinse fish under warm water and dry inside out with paper towel. Use poultry scissors to
trim side fins, cut off the dorsal and belly fins and trim tail into a V-shape, if desired.
Step 3: Use a sharp knife to score each fish by cutting 2-3 slashes into the thickest part of the flesh on
both sides.
Step 4: Cut four 30 * 40cm pieces of foil and brush with the olive oil to grease. Lay a fish on each
piece foil and place a lime quarter and kaffir lime leaf into the cavity of each fish.
Step 5: Finely chop remaining kaffir lime leaves and place in a small bowl. Add the coriander, soy
sauce, garlic, sesame oil and lime juice and mix well. Spoon evenly over fish. Wrap foil loosely around
fish to enclose and fold edges firmly together to seal. Place parcels on a large baking tray and bake
for 10-12 mins or until the fish flakes when tested with a fork.
Step 6: Fry potatoes again in heat or until crip. 1 to 2 minutes, drain on paper towels.
Recipe: Mussels Provençale
Step 1: Place the live mussels in fresh lightly salted water for about 30 minutes to help flush grit from
the shells.
Step 2: Scrape and wash the encrusted mussel shells well under cold running water. Pull away the
beard that hangs out between the two shells and discard. Any mussels that do not close when
handled must be thrown away as you do not know how long they have been dead.
Step 3: Place the washed mussels into a pan with the shallots, wine, fish stock, parsley stalks, bay
leaf and a little seasoning. Cover the pan with a lid, bring to the boil and simmer for about 5 minutes
until the shells open wide.
Step 4: Remove the mussels from the pan and allow them to cool slightly.
Step 5: Continue to simmer to reduce the cooking liquid by about one-third. Knead the butter and flour
together to form a beurre-manié. Gradually whisk in the beurre manié. Pass the liquid through a fine
strainer into a clean pan and return to a simmer. Add the tomato concassed.
Step 6: When the mussels are just cool enough to handle, separate the shells at the hinge joint,
retaining only one shell per mussel. Remove the mussel flesh from the shell and any remaining beard.
Gently replace the mussel back into the shell.
Step 7: To serve, dress the mussels neatly on service plates. Pour a little of the thickened cooking
liquid over each mussel and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Recipe: Spicy Prawn Laksa
Step 1: Heat a large non-stick saucepan over medium heat. Add laksa paste and cook for 30 seconds
or until aromatic. Stir in coconut milk and water. Simmer for 3 minutes or until heated through and well
combined. Add prawns and cook for 3 minutes or until cooked through.
Step 2: Meanwhile, cook noodles following packet directions. Drain.
Step 3: Place a nest of noodles in each serving bowl. Ladle laksa mixture around noodles. Top with
beans, sprouts and basil. Serve with lime wedges.
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Recipe: Classic Fish and Chips
Step 1: Place sliced potatoes in a medium bowl and cover with cold water.
Step 2: Mix flour, baking powder, salt and pepper together in a separate medium bowl. Add milk and
egg, stir until batter is smooth. Let stand for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Meanwhile, heat oil in a large pot or electric skillet for 350 degrees F.
Step 4: Drain and pat dry potatoes. Fry in hot oil until tender about 5 minutes, drain on paper towel.
Step 5: Dredge cod in batter, one piece at a time and place in hot oil. Fry fish in batches until golden
brown on all sides; drain on paper towels. Monitor oil temperature, increasing the heat as needed to
maintain 350 degrees F.
Step 6: Fry potatoes again in hot oil until crisp, 1 to 2 minutes, drain on paper towels.
Recipe: Chili Garlic Char-grilled Octopus
Step 1: To clean octopus, cut across the head and under the eyes to separate the tentacles from the
head. Cut across the head above the eyes. Clean out head; remove dark skin. Remove beak from
centre of tentacles, rinse well. Rinse octopus; pat dry with paper towel. Cut the tentacles into even
sized pieces.
Step 2: Process chili, garlic, parsley and half the oil in a small food processor until become smooth.
Add half the chili mixture to octopus in a large bowl; mix well. Season octopus.
Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large, deep heavy-based frying pan over high heat; cook
octopus, stirring, for 3 minutes. Add wine; bring to the boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, for 20
minutes or until octopus is tender. Drain off liquid. Cool the octopus.
Step 4: Toss cooled octopus in remaining oil. Cook octopus, in batches, on a heated grill plate (or grill
or barbecue) over high heat for 2 minutes or until charred lightly.
Step 5: Place charred octopus in a medium bowl with vinegar and remaining chili mixture; toss gently
to combine. Season to taste. Serve with rocket and mint
Select the cooking times and temperatures that you will use. Explain your decision.
Recipe: Chilli Crab
Chilli crab is typically cooked over medium-high heat. After sautéing aromatics, add crab pieces and
stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until shells turn red and meat is cooked through. Maintain a steady simmer to
ensure flavors meld, usually around 10-12 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving hot with
steamed rice.
Recipe: Roasted Whole Snapper
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place seasoned whole snapper on a baking sheet lined with
parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F
(63°C) and the flesh flakes easily with a fork. For added flavor, stuff the cavity with herbs, lemon
slices, and garlic. Baste occasionally with melted butter or olive oil during cooking.
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Recipe: Asian style fish parcels
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare Asian-style fish parcels by placing seasoned fish fillets (such
as salmon or cod) on sheets of foil. Top with sliced vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and
mushrooms), ginger, garlic, and a drizzle of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce. Fold foil into sealed packets
and bake for 15-20 minutes until fish is cooked through and vegetables are tender. Serve hot,
garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice.
Recipe: Mussels Provençale
To make Mussels Provençale, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic,
diced tomatoes, and fresh herbs (such as thyme, parsley, and basil) for 2-3 minutes. Add cleaned
mussels and white wine (about 1 cup per pound of mussels). Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes,
shaking occasionally, until mussels open. Discard any unopened mussels. Season with salt, pepper,
and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Recipe: Spicy Prawn Laksa
To prepare spicy prawn laksa, heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic, ginger,
and lemongrass for 2-3 minutes. Add laksa paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Pour in chicken
or vegetable broth and coconut milk, bring to a simmer. Add prawns and simmer for 3-5 minutes until
prawns are pink and cooked through. Stir in lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar to taste. Cook noodles
separately according to package instructions. Serve laksa broth over noodles, garnished with bean
sprouts, cilantro, and sliced chili.
Recipe: Classic Fish and Chips
To make classic fish and chips, heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Dip pieces of
cod or haddock in a batter made from flour, baking powder, salt, and beer, then fry for 4-6 minutes
until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. For chips, fry thick-cut potatoes
twice: first at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes to cook through, then at 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes
until golden brown and crispy. Serve hot with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and malt vinegar.
Recipe: Chili Garlic Char-grilled Octopus
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Marinate cleaned octopus tentacles in a mixture of
olive oil, minced garlic, chili flakes, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes. Grill octopus for 4-5
minutes per side, brushing with marinade, until charred and cooked through. Tentacles should be
tender but not overly chewy. Adjust cooking time based on tentacle thickness. Serve hot, drizzled with
additional olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice, garnished with chopped parsley.
Select the sauces and accompaniments which you will add to your dish. Explain your decision –
how do the accompaniments complement your dish?
Recipe: Chilli Crab
Chilli crab is traditionally served with steamed or fried mantou (Chinese buns) to soak up the flavorful
sauce. A side of jasmine rice complements the spicy and savory crab dish. The sauce itself, made
with tomato paste, chili, garlic, and soy sauce, is rich and tangy, perfect for dipping the crab meat and
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enhancing its natural sweetness. Additionally, a refreshing side of pickled vegetables or a simple
green salad balances the richness of the crab and sauce, providing contrast in flavors and textures.
Recipe: Roasted Whole Snapper
Roasted whole snapper pairs well with citrus-based sauces like lemon butter or a tangy salsa verde to
complement its mild, flaky flesh. Accompany with roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables to add
texture and balance. A side of herbed couscous or quinoa serves as a hearty base, absorbing the
flavors from the fish and sauces. These accompaniments enhance the dish by providing contrasting
flavors and textures while allowing the snapper's delicate taste to shine through.
Recipe: Asian style fish parcels
Asian-style fish parcels are enhanced by a sauce made of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil,
drizzled over the fish and vegetables. Serve with steamed jasmine rice to absorb the flavorful sauce.
Bok choy or snap peas add freshness and crunch, complementing the tender fish. The parcels are
often garnished with chopped green onions and cilantro for a burst of herbal aroma. These
accompaniments create a balanced and satisfying meal, showcasing the fusion of Asian flavors while
allowing the fish and vegetables to remain the focal point of the dish.
Recipe: Mussels Provençale
Mussels Provençale are best served with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth made of garlic,
tomatoes, herbs (such as parsley and thyme), and white wine. A side salad with a light vinaigrette
offers freshness to balance the richness of the dish. The acidity of a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon
Blanc, complements the savory broth. These accompaniments enhance the dining experience by
providing contrast in textures and flavors, ensuring each element of the dish is enjoyed to its fullest.
Recipe: Spicy Prawn Laksa
Spicy prawn laksa is traditionally served with rice noodles to absorb the rich, coconut-based broth
infused with spices like lemongrass, chili, and ginger. Garnish with bean sprouts, cilantro, and sliced
chili for added freshness and texture. Sides such as fried tofu or hard-boiled eggs provide protein and
additional texture contrasts. Lime wedges offer a tangy touch to balance the spiciness. These
accompaniments complement the bold flavors of the laksa, creating a satisfying and aromatic meal
that highlights the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine.
Recipe: Classic Fish and Chips
Classic fish and chips are traditionally served with tartar sauce for a tangy contrast to the crispy fried
fish. Malt vinegar is drizzled over the chips for a sharp, acidic kick. A side of mushy peas adds a
creamy texture and complements the fried items. Lemon wedges are provided for a citrusy freshness
to cut through the richness of the dish. These accompaniments create a balanced and nostalgic meal,
enhancing the flavors and textures of the crispy fish and golden chips while offering a variety of tastes
to enjoy with each bite.
Recipe: Chili Garlic Char-grilled Octopus
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Chili garlic char-grilled octopus pairs well with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance its natural
flavors. A side of creamy aioli or tzatziki provides a cool contrast to the smoky char and spicy garlic.
Serve with a salad of mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette to refresh the palate between bites.
Grilled vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini add sweetness and texture. These
accompaniments complement the robust flavors of the octopus, creating a balanced and satisfying
dish with a variety of tastes and textures.
Select the select the sauces and garnishes which you will add to your dish. Explain your decision
– how do the sauces and garnishes complement your dish?
Recipe: Chilli Crab
Chilli Crab is typically served with a tangy, savory sauce made from tomato paste, chili sauce, soy
sauce, and sometimes ketchup for sweetness. Garnishes often include chopped cilantro for freshness
and sliced green onions for added flavor and texture. These elements complement the sweet and
spicy flavors of the crab meat, creating a balanced and satisfying dish.
Recipe: Roasted Whole Snapper
Roasted Whole Snapper pairs well with a simple yet flavorful sauce such as a lemon butter sauce or a
Mediterranean salsa verde. These sauces enhance the delicate flavor of the snapper without
overpowering it. Garnishes often include fresh herbs like parsley or dill, which add brightness and
complement the fish's natural taste. Lemon wedges are also commonly served alongside to provide a
citrusy contrast. Together, these elements elevate the dish, offering a harmonious balance of flavors
and textures.
Recipe: Asian style fish parcels
Asian-style fish parcels are typically accompanied by a sauce made of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a
touch of honey or brown sugar for sweetness. This combination enhances the umami flavors of the
fish and complements the Asian-inspired marinade used in the parcels. Garnishes often include sliced
green onions and cilantro, adding freshness and a pop of color. These elements not only enhance the
dish's taste but also provide a visually appealing presentation, making the fish parcels a delightful and
well-rounded meal.
Recipe: Mussels Provençale
Mussels Provençale are traditionally served with a rich tomato-based sauce flavored with garlic,
shallots, white wine, and herbs like thyme and parsley. This sauce enhances the briny sweetness of
the mussels while adding a savory depth of flavor. Garnishes typically include chopped fresh parsley
or basil, which brighten the dish and complement the Mediterranean flavors. A slice of crusty bread is
often served alongside to soak up the delicious sauce. Together, these components create a
satisfying and classic dish that highlights the natural flavors of the mussels with a Provencal twist.
Recipe: Spicy Prawn Laksa
Spicy Prawn Laksa is traditionally served with a coconut milk-based broth infused with lemongrass,
ginger, and chili paste, providing a creamy and spicy base that complements the prawns. Garnishes
include bean sprouts for crunch, fresh cilantro for herbaceousness, and a squeeze of lime for acidity,
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balancing the richness of the broth. These elements add layers of texture and flavor, enhancing the
dish's complexity while highlighting Southeast Asian culinary influences.
Recipe: Classic Fish and Chips
Classic Fish and Chips are typically served with tartar sauce, a creamy condiment made from
mayonnaise, chopped pickles or capers, and lemon juice, which provides a tangy contrast to the
crispy fried fish and potatoes. Garnishes often include a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill for a touch of
freshness and color. Additionally, a wedge of lemon is served on the side to squeeze over the fish,
enhancing its flavor. These accompaniments complement the hearty and comforting nature of the
dish, creating a satisfying meal with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Recipe: Chili Garlic Char-grilled Octopus
Chili Garlic Char-grilled Octopus is typically accompanied by a spicy chili garlic sauce made with
minced garlic, chili flakes or fresh chilies, olive oil, and lemon juice. This sauce enhances the smoky
flavor from grilling while adding a zesty kick. Garnishes often include chopped fresh parsley for
brightness and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for depth. These elements not only complement the
octopus's tender texture but also provide a harmonious balance of spicy, smoky, and tangy flavors,
creating a memorable dish with Mediterranean flair.
Describe how you will select the seafood products and other ingredients that you need from
stores. How will you check them for freshness and quality?
Whole fish
When selecting whole fish, look for clear, bright eyes that are not sunken. The gills should be
bright red or pink, free of slime and with no unpleasant odor. The flesh should feel firm to the
touch and spring back when pressed gently, indicating freshness. Avoid fish with dull, cloudy
eyes, gills that are brown or slimy, or flesh that appears mushy or discolored. Additionally, check
for a clean, mild sea-like odor — fish should not smell overly fishy or sour.
Inspect the scales for a shiny, metallic appearance and ensure they are firmly attached to the
skin. If buying fillets, they should be moist and have a translucent sheen without any
discoloration or drying around the edges. When in doubt, ask the fishmonger for guidance or
recommendations based on what's freshest that day.
Fish fillets
When choosing fish fillets, start by looking for fillets that are moist and have a shiny appearance,
indicating freshness. The flesh should be firm and resilient to the touch, bouncing back when
pressed gently. Avoid fillets that appear dry, discolored, or have edges that are starting to curl or
fray, as these are signs of age.
Check the odor — it should be mild and fresh, reminiscent of the sea. Any strong or unpleasant
odor may indicate the fillet is not fresh. The color of the flesh should be vibrant and uniform,
without any dark spots or discoloration.
If buying pre-packaged fillets, ensure the packaging is intact and there is no excess liquid or
signs of leakage, which could indicate mishandling or deterioration.
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For the best quality, buy from a reputable fishmonger or market where you can trust the sourcing
and handling practices. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the fish’s origin and how recently it
was caught or prepared.
Shellfish
When selecting shellfish such as clams, mussels, and oysters, follow these tips for freshness and
quality:
- Appearance: Look for shells that are tightly closed or close tightly when tapped. Open shells
that do not close when tapped may be dead and should be avoided.
- Smell: Fresh shellfish should have a clean, briny sea smell. Avoid shellfish with strong, foul, or
ammonia-like odors, as this could indicate spoilage.
- Shells: Shells should be intact and free from cracks or chips. Avoid shells that are broken or
damaged, as this can lead to contamination and spoilage.
- Movement: Live shellfish like clams and mussels may move slightly or react when handled. This
is a sign of freshness. If they do not respond when touched, they may be dead and should be
discarded.
- Storage: Purchase shellfish from reputable sources with proper refrigeration. Ensure they are
stored on ice or in a well-chilled display to maintain freshness.
- Seasonality: Consider the seasonality of shellfish, as certain types are more readily available
and fresher during specific times of the year.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure you're selecting the freshest and highest-quality
shellfish for your meal.
List the food preparation equipment that you will need for this recipe. How will you ensure that it
is clean, well maintained and ready for use?
To prepare seafood dishes effectively, you'll need several key pieces of equipment:
- Cutting Boards and Knives: Use separate cutting boards for seafood to prevent cross-
contamination. Plastic or glass boards are easier to sanitize. Knives should be sharp to ensure
clean cuts.
- Pots and Pans: Depending on your recipe, you may need various sizes of pots and pans for
steaming, sautéing, or frying seafood.
- Grill or Griddle: Essential for grilling fish or seafood skewers. Ensure it's clean and oiled before
use to prevent sticking.
- Colander or Strainer: Used for rinsing seafood like shrimp or clams before cooking.
- Fish Spatula or Tongs: These specialized tools help handle delicate seafood without breaking it
apart.
To keep these items clean and ready for use:
- Cleaning: Wash all equipment thoroughly with hot, soapy water after each use, paying extra
attention to remove any seafood residue. Use a scrub brush for cutting boards and strainers.
- Sanitizing: Disinfect cutting boards and knives with a solution of one tablespoon of bleach per
gallon of water, letting it sit for several minutes before rinsing and air-drying.
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- Maintenance: Regularly inspect equipment for wear or damage. Sharpen knives as needed and
oil wooden cutting boards to prevent cracking.
- Storage: Store equipment in a clean, dry area to prevent bacterial growth. Air-dry thoroughly
before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
- Check before Use: Before preparing seafood, inspect equipment for cleanliness and
functionality. Ensure all surfaces are free of residue and properly sanitized.
By maintaining these practices, you can ensure your food preparation equipment is clean, well-
maintained, and ready to safely prepare delicious seafood dishes.
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