Winco TB-18 Tostada Basket Holds 18 Shells - Heavy-Duty Fry Basket

In this review the Winco TB-18 tostada basket is judged on durability and kitchen practicality; it is for cooks and foodservice operators who need a dependable way to shape and hold multiple tostada shells while frying or cooling. The single biggest reason to buy is its ability to keep up to 18 individual tortillas neatly separated in 6' slots, which simplifies batch frying and reduces breakage. The reviewer found the chrome-plated steel construction and heat-resistant handle make routine use in a busy kitchen straightforward and low-risk.

Key Features

• Holds 18 shells: The basket stores up to 18 tortillas in individual 6' slots so batches stay organized and shells keep their shape while frying or cooling.
• Heat-resistant handle: A plastic coated handle gives a secure grip and protects hands from hot oil or pan surfaces during handling.
• Durable construction: Chrome-plated steel provides solid rigidity and resist bending during heavy use in a foodservice environment.
• Heavy-duty design: Built to withstand repeated use in commercial kitchens, the basket holds shape under weight and high temperatures.
• Dishwasher-safe: The simple steel construction can be cleaned in a commercial dishwasher for quick turnaround between shifts.

Who It's For

The Winco TB-18 is best for restaurants, caterers, and home cooks who prepare large numbers of tostadas or routinely fry tortillas and need consistent results. Operators who value speed and organization will appreciate the separated 6' slots that let shells cool or drain without sticking together.

Those who only make one or two tostadas occasionally, or who prefer flexible silicone molds rather than a rigid steel basket, might find this heavy-duty display less suited to infrequent domestic use. Also, kitchens without space for a dedicated basket or without a dishwasher may prefer a smaller or different tool.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Holds up to 18 shells in individual slots for efficient batch handling.
• Heat-resistant plastic coated handle reduces risk when lifting from hot oil.
• Chrome-plated steel construction is sturdy and resists deformation in heavy use.
• Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning in commercial environments.

Cons

• Rigid steel design is less versatile than flexible forms and requires storage space when not in use.
• Not ideal for single, occasional home use where a smaller tool would suffice.

Specifications

Model	TB-18
Capacity	Holds up to 18 shells
Slot size	Individual 6' slots
Material	Chrome-plated steel
Handle	Heat-resistant plastic coated handle
Cleaning	Dishwasher-safe

Our Verdict

The Winco TB-18 is a practical, heavy-duty tostada basket that earns its place in busy kitchens because it reliably holds 18 shells, is easy to handle with the heat-resistant coated handle, and cleans in the dishwasher. It is good value for restaurants and caterers who need batch frying efficiency, though occasional home users should consider whether they need the capacity and footprint.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many shells will it hold?
The basket holds up to 18 tortillas in separate 6' slots so shells stay organized during frying and cooling.

Is the handle safe to touch when hot?
The handle is covered with a heat-resistant plastic coating to provide a safer grip during handling; care is still required around hot oil.

Can it be cleaned in a dishwasher?
Yes, the chrome-plated steel construction is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning in commercial or capable home dishwashers.