What size is a GN pan in CM?

Have you ever been to a professional kitchen and noticed the chefs effortlessly grabbing pans of various sizes? These are no ordinary pans – they are called GN pans. GN, which stands for Gastronorm, is a widely used system for sizing food pans in commercial kitchens. If you have ever wondered what size a GN pan is in centimeters, you've come to the right place. In this article, we will demystify the sizing of GN pans, explore their versatility, and discuss why they are indispensable in professional cooking.

Understanding the Gastronorm System

The Gastronorm system was developed in the 1960s by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to provide a standardized method for sizing and arranging food pans in commercial kitchens. The system is based on the dimensions of a full-size pan, known as GN 1/1, which measures 530mm × 325mm.

Each GN pan is a fraction of the size of a full GN 1/1 pan. The size of a GN pan is indicated by a number that corresponds to its fractional size. For example, a GN 1/2 pan is half the size of a full GN 1/1 pan, measuring 325mm × 265mm. Similarly, a GN 1/3 pan measures 325mm × 176mm, while a GN 2/3 pan measures 354mm × 325mm.

The Versatility of GN Pans

One of the key advantages of GN pans is their versatility. Chefs can easily mix and match different sizes of GN pans within a food preparation area to create a customized setup that meets their specific needs. This flexibility allows them to maximize space utilization, optimize workflow, and streamline processes.

GN pans are available in various depths, allowing chefs to choose the size that best suits their requirements. The most commonly used depths are 20mm, 40mm, 65mm, 100mm, and 150mm. The depth of a GN pan is typically denoted by a number following a slash in the pan's size. For example, a GN 1/1 pan with a depth of 65mm is written as GN 1/1-65.

Another advantage of GN pans is their compatibility with various cooking equipment. They can be used in ovens, bain-maries, blast chillers, and food holding cabinets, making them ideal for different cooking methods and temperature requirements. This compatibility simplifies kitchen operations and ensures uniformity in food preparation and presentation.

Applications of Different GN Pan Sizes

Now that we understand how GN pans are sized let's delve into their applications. Different GN pan sizes are suitable for specific food items and cooking techniques. Here are some common uses for various GN pan sizes:

GN 1/1: This is the largest and most versatile size. It is often used for roasting large cuts of meat, baking large batches of lasagna or casseroles, and holding pre-cooked food.

GN 1/2: Half the size of a GN 1/1 pan, this is commonly used for baking and roasting smaller portions, such as half chicken or a small tray of roasted vegetables. It is also ideal for salads and cold food preparations.

GN 1/3: A GN 1/3 pan is perfect for holding toppings, dressings, or sauces that need to be easily accessible during food preparation. It can also be used for baking single portions of lasagna or individually-sized desserts.

GN 2/3: Ideal for holding cooked vegetables or side dishes, a GN 2/3 pan provides ample space to portion and serve food. Chefs often use this size for accommodating high-demand items on a buffet or during large-scale events.

GN 1/4: With its smaller size, a GN 1/4 pan is commonly used for holding condiments, sliced fruits, or individual servings of dips or spreads. It is also useful for portioning small quantities of ingredients during mise en place.

Summary

In conclusion, the size of a GN pan is determined by the Gastronorm system, with a full-size GN 1/1 pan measuring 530mm × 325mm. GN pans come in a range of sizes, allowing chefs to customize their food preparation area for optimal efficiency. These pans are versatile and compatible with various cooking equipment, making them a staple in professional kitchens. The different sizes of GN pans have specific applications, ensuring that chefs can efficiently prepare, store, and serve food in a standardized manner. So, the next time you visit a commercial kitchen, you'll have a better understanding of the different sizes of GN pans and how they contribute to the smooth operation of the culinary world.