Type and Use of Plates

As a common utensil in daily life, plates come in a wide variety of types, each with its unique characteristics and applications.

From a material perspective, common ones include ceramic plates. It has a delicate texture and smooth surface, which can not only present the color of food well but also draw exquisite patterns with a strong artistic beauty. Ceramic plates have a wide range of uses and can be seen in both everyday meals and formal banquets. During daily meals, it can be used to serve various staple foods and dishes, including rice, stewed dishes, stir-fried dishes, and more. It is also frequently used to serve main courses like spaghetti and meat in Western cuisine.

Glass plates are another popular kind. They give consumers a sense of freshness because they are transparent and bright, making it easy to see how the food looks on the dish. Fruit salad, delicate little dim sum, and other foods with vibrant colors and lovely shapes can be served on glass dishes. They are frequently used for events like afternoon tea and cold dinners, and setting them on the table can create a sophisticated ambiance in addition to showcasing appetizing cuisine.

Silver and stainless steel are two examples of the materials used to make metal plates. Stainless steel plates are simple to wash, strong, and long-lasting. They can accommodate a variety of food varieties and are frequently utilized in public spaces like restaurants and canteens. Silver plates have good glossiness and are comparatively expensive. In the past, they were frequently utilized for upscale banquets, palace dining, and other events. These days, they are also utilized in some formal events and upscale dining establishments to showcase foods like grilled meat and premium seafood.

Wooden plates give a natural and rustic feeling, with unique wood textures and colors. It is frequently used at restaurants and family get-togethers with rustic or natural themes to offer bread, cheese, fruits, and other items.

In terms of size, small plates (about 6–10 inches in diameter) mainly serve appetizers, dips, small dim sum, etc. The most popular size for everyday meals is the middle plate, which has a diameter of roughly 10 to 14 inches and can accommodate stews, stir-fried foods, and other dishes. Large plates (with a diameter of about 14 inches or more) are suitable for family gatherings, banquets, and other occasions, used to hold more food for multiple people to share.

Plates, which are the primary containers for storing everyday meals and staple foods; fruit platters, which are made especially to keep fruits; and dim sum plates, which are used to hold cakes and biscuits. In order to improve the overall visual impression, decorative plates are mostly used to adorn dining tables or indoor spaces.

In short, there are a wide variety of types of plates, each with its characteristics in terms of material, size, and purpose. Depending on the type of food, the occasion, and the requirement for decor, people can select appropriate plates.