A cook is assigned to set up a carving station for an elegant buffet. Which of the following is one of the necessary materials for the station?

Setting up a carving station for an elegant buffet requires specific tools and materials to ensure the preparation and presentation of the carved meats are as appealing and functional as possible. A carving knife is essential for slicing the meat, but having a sharpening steel on hand is critical for maintaining the sharpness of the knife throughout the service. A sharp knife is necessary for achieving clean, precise cuts, which enhances the overall presentation of the dish and ensures that guests can easily serve themselves without difficulty.

While the other materials mentioned are useful in different contexts—like a heat lamp for keeping food warm or serving trays for plating and presenting the food—they do not specifically address the immediate need for ensuring that the carving knife is effective during service. Without a properly sharpened knife, the quality of the carving and the dining experience could be compromised, making the sharpening steel an integral part of the station setup.