Care & Use Instructions

Before first use: Remove all packaging and labels. Wash the rack in warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. This removes any manufacturing residue or protective coatings applied during production.

Preparing for roasting: Place the rack inside your Dexam Supreme 35 x 26cm roasting pan with the bars running in your preferred direction (typically lengthwise for long joints, crosswise for wider roasts). The rack should sit flat and stable within the pan. For easier cleanup, you can line the pan below the rack with foil—though this isn't necessary with quality stainless steel pans.

Positioning meat on the rack: Place your meat directly onto the rack, positioning it centrally for balanced weight distribution. The compact 35 x 26cm size is ideal for chicken, smaller joints, pork tenderloin, racks of lamb, or similar cuts. For poultry, you can place it breast-side up or down depending on your recipe. For joints, position the fattiest side up so fat bastes the meat as it renders. The rack supports the meat securely whilst allowing heat to circulate underneath and around the sides.

During roasting: The rack elevates meat above drippings, allowing fat and juices to collect in the pan below. This separation is crucial—it prevents the underside from boiling in rendered fat (which would create soggy, pale skin rather than crispy browning), whilst collecting clean drippings for gravy. The 1.5cm elevation provides optimal clearance whilst maintaining roast stability in this compact size.

For even browning: The wire construction allows hot air to flow freely around the entire joint, promoting even cooking and browning on all surfaces—not just the top. This circulation means you typically don't need to turn the meat during roasting, though you can if your recipe requires it. The lightweight 0.22kg rack makes rotating or repositioning easy if needed, whilst still providing stable support.

Basting technique: When basting during roasting, use a bulb baster or large spoon to collect juices from the pan below the rack and pour over the meat. The rack's open construction makes accessing pan drippings easy without disturbing the meat. The compact size means less dripping volume accumulates compared to larger racks—perfect for smaller roasts where you don't need copious amounts of gravy.

Making gravy: After roasting, remove the meat and rack together (use oven gloves—the rack is very hot despite its light weight). The pan below contains collected drippings, separate from the meat—perfect for making gravy without excess fat. For smaller roasts, you may want to add stock or wine to create sufficient gravy volume. You can pour off excess fat, deglaze the pan, and create rich gravy from the concentrated flavours.

Removing the rack after cooking: Always use oven gloves when handling the hot rack. The lightweight 0.22kg construction makes handling easier than heavier racks, but stainless steel retains heat significantly. Lift the rack and meat together, or remove the meat first, then the rack. Be careful not to splash hot drippings from the pan below when removing the rack.

Cooling before cleaning: Allow the rack to cool completely before washing. Immediate immersion in cold water can cause thermal shock, though stainless steel is quite resilient. Letting it cool naturally is gentler on the material and safer for you. The lightweight construction cools relatively quickly.

Hand washing: For everyday cleaning, wash the rack in hot, soapy water using a brush or non-abrasive sponge to remove cooked-on residue between the wires. The open wire construction makes cleaning easier than solid surfaces—you can scrub from both sides. The compact size means it fits easily in most sinks for washing. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely to prevent water spots.

Dishwasher cleaning: The rack is dishwasher safe. Place it on the bottom rack of your dishwasher where water pressure is strongest. The compact 35 x 26cm size fits easily in standard dishwashers. The high-quality 18/10 stainless steel won't rust or corrode through repeated dishwasher cycles. However, hand washing is often quicker for racks given their simple construction and compact size.

Removing stubborn residue: For baked-on drippings or carbon buildup, soak the rack in hot, soapy water for 15-30 minutes to soften residue. Use a stiff brush or non-abrasive scrubber to remove loosened deposits. For particularly stubborn spots, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply to affected areas, let sit briefly, then scrub. Avoid harsh abrasives that could scratch the stainless steel surface.

Preventing rust: High-quality 18/10 stainless steel is highly rust-resistant, but proper care extends longevity. Always dry the rack completely after washing—don't leave it wet for extended periods. If storing for long periods, ensure it's completely dry. Stainless steel's chromium content forms a protective layer that prevents rust, but prolonged moisture exposure can compromise this protection over time.

Storage: Store the rack inside the matching roasting pan to save cupboard space and keep the set together. The compact 35 x 26cm size and lightweight 0.22kg construction make storage particularly easy—it takes up minimal space in standard kitchen cupboards. Alternatively, hang the rack on a hook or stand it vertically. Ensure the rack is completely dry before storage to prevent any potential water spotting or mineral deposits.

Maintaining appearance: Stainless steel can develop a patina or slight discolouration from high-heat roasting—this is normal and doesn't affect performance. For cosmetic restoration, use a stainless steel cleaner or a paste of vinegar and baking soda. Rub with the grain of the steel (if visible), rinse thoroughly, and dry. Some cooks actually prefer the patina as evidence of use.

Checking for damage: Periodically inspect the rack for any bent wires or structural damage. Quality stainless steel is resilient, but accidental impacts or extreme weight could bend wires. The lighter construction compared to larger racks means it's slightly more susceptible to bending if mishandled, though normal roasting use presents no issues. Minor bends can sometimes be straightened by hand (when cool), but significant damage may require replacement.

What to avoid: Don't place the hot rack directly onto cold surfaces (stone countertops, etc.)—use a trivet or towel to protect surfaces. Don't use metal utensils to scrape the rack aggressively, as this can scratch the stainless steel. Don't use harsh chemical cleaners or bleach, which can damage the protective chromium layer. Don't store the rack whilst still damp.

Versatility beyond roasting: Whilst designed for roasting meat, this compact rack has other uses. Use it as a cooling rack for baked goods (let it cool first after roasting use and wash thoroughly). Use it for grilling vegetables in the oven. The 35 x 26cm size works well for smaller baking tasks—bacon, fish fillets, or anything you want air circulation around. The sturdy construction and food-safe stainless steel make it versatile kitchen equipment for smaller households.

For smaller households: This 35 x 26cm rack is particularly well-suited for couples, small families, or those who cook for 2-4 people regularly. It provides professional roasting results without the bulk of larger racks. The compact size means it doesn't dominate cupboard space, whilst the lightweight construction makes it easy to handle—particularly beneficial for those who find heavier kitchen equipment unwieldy.

Long-term care: With proper use and care, this Italian-made stainless steel rack should provide decades of service. The material doesn't degrade from heat exposure, the simple construction has no parts to wear out, and quality stainless steel resists corrosion. Clean promptly after use, dry thoroughly, and store properly—these simple practices ensure longevity despite the compact, lightweight construction.