Kitchen brigade

The kitchen brigade system, or brigade de cuisine, is a hierarchical structure used in professional kitchens to ensure efficiency and organization. It was developed by Georges Auguste Escoffier in the late 19th century to streamline operations in large kitchens, particularly in hotels and fine dining establishments.

Roles in the Kitchen Brigade

The kitchen brigade is structured with distinct roles, each with specific responsibilities. Below are the common roles within the system:

Management

• Chef de Cuisine (Head Chef): Responsible for the overall management of the kitchen, menu planning, and coordination with other departments.
• Sous Chef: Second-in-command, assists the chef de cuisine and supervises kitchen operations.
• Chef de Partie (Station Chef): Manages a specific station within the kitchen.

Stations

• Saucier (Sauce Chef): Prepares sauces, soups, and stews.
• Poissonnier (Fish Chef): Prepares fish and seafood dishes.
• Entremetier: Responsible for side dishes, including vegetables, soups, and egg dishes.
• Garde Manger (Pantry Chef): Prepares cold dishes such as salads, charcuterie, and appetizers.
• Pâtissier (Pastry Chef): Responsible for desserts, pastries, and baked goods.
• Rotisseur (Roast Chef): Prepares roasted and braised meats.
• Grillardin (Grill Chef): Specializes in grilled dishes.
• Friturier (Fry Chef): Handles fried foods.
• Boucher (Butcher): Prepares meats and poultry.

Support Roles

• Commis (Assistant Chef): Works under a station chef to assist with tasks and preparation.
• Apprentice: A trainee learning the roles and responsibilities of the kitchen.
• Plongeur (Dishwasher): Cleans kitchen tools, dishes, and assists with basic preparation tasks.

Advantages of the Brigade System

• Ensures efficiency and organization in the kitchen.
• Allows for specialization, with each role focusing on specific tasks.
• Improves teamwork and communication.

Modern Adaptations

While the traditional brigade system remains in use, smaller kitchens and modern establishments may adapt it to suit their needs. For example:

• Roles may be combined (e.g., saucier and poissonnier).
• Simplified hierarchies in casual dining or small-scale operations.

History

The brigade system originated from military structures, which influenced Escoffier’s organization. It aimed to reduce chaos in large kitchens by assigning clear duties and responsibilities.

See Also

• Culinary arts
• Restaurant management
• Food preparation

References

1. Escoffier, Georges Auguste. "The Escoffier Cook Book." First published 1903.
2. Culinary Institute of America. "Professional Chef Techniques." Updated 2024.