It isn’t easy to find versatile kitchen appliances, the reason why we use different appliances for different tasks. However, an appliance like a Panini Press in the kitchen, which has a creative and straightforward approach, can be important too.
Having said that, panini makers are on the higher end of the price. So is it worth paying a hefty amount for an appliance with a singular use?
Well, yes! Panini makers are worth it because you can make much more than paninis with them (e.g., fish fillets, salads, etc.). However, if that is not your goal, you should look for other similar options.
This guide further explores a panini maker in detail and provides you with all the important information before your big purchase.
What Is A Panini Maker?
In technical terms, a panini maker is a square-shaped sandwich griller with heat plates both at the top and bottom. It has the ability to grill both sides of the bread in one go.
You can think of a panini maker as a small grill that comes with the caliber of grilling the perfect sandwich. Actually, you can make a whole lot more in a panini maker. For example, grilling meat, vegetables, and even eggs shouldn’t be difficult.
Although panini makers are marketed for singular use, they have a lot of potential for versatility.
Here are two ways they differ from other similar products in the market:
1) More Space
If you are a fan of thick sandwiches, a panini press is the best option for her. This is one significant advantage of this appliance compared to a regular sandwich maker. Not only that, but with more space, you can also make delicious grilled chicken breasts, avocado slices, and more.
Another thing to note is that this appliance can accommodate thicker slices of bread like focaccia or ciabatta.
2) Heavy-duty Plates
Something that sets this appliance apart is the inclusion of two large heavy-duty plates in the design. These plates have seared lines on their surface, making it possible for users to use different slices of bread.
Many other sandwich makers or toasters come with plates in a triangular design—meaning you’d be stuck with a particular shape.
The top plate is slightly weighty, so they are good for pressing down the sandwiches. This is irrespective of the thickness of the sandwich or density.
These plates are also nonstick in nature, so you wouldn’t have to pre-oil most of the time. Your food will easily slide in and out. This quality makes a panini press ideal for people who lean toward a healthy lifestyle.
How To Use A Panini Press?
Step 1: Plug It In
Before you plug it in, ensure that your appliance has been cleaned properly. You can use a dishcloth to wipe down dirt or grime, which should do the trick.
Now plug it in and set the right temperature for your plates. This step will depend on the type of model you have. If there is any confusion, we suggest you simply select a medium-high temperature in your model. As per our experience, it should be around 350ºF.
Step 2: Apply Oil On Surface
The second step is more or less optional, as the griddles are nonstick. Nevertheless, it is always good to work with a small amount of oil to ensure the food does not end up getting stuck or burnt. Applying oil also helps with adding more crispiness to the meals, especially sandwiches.
Tip: You can apply oil to the griddles on both sides by pouring some olive oil onto a paper towel. Wipe this paper towel both on the top and bottom plates.
Step 3: Preheat
Preheating your panini press will make your bread crispy, so close the appliance’s lid and let it slowly heat. All the panini presses in the market currently come with indicators that have green and red lights. You know your appliance is hot enough for cooking when the green light goes on.
Step 4: Assemble The Panini
We all know this is the fun part. As your panini maker is preheating, begin to assemble your panini. Gather all your favorite ingredients, from veggies to protein to seasoning. Paninis can be made with a variety of recipes, and truly the options are endless.
Tip: Although panini presses allow for more room, we suggest you do not overfill your sandwich. You do not want the fillings to spill and make a huge mess that you have to end up cleaning.
Step 5: Cooking Time
Close the lid and apply a little pressure, so your panini is nice and tight. If your panini press has a clasp in-built, you will not have to worry about this part.
With this guide, you are all set to use your panini press to make delicious meals! As you must have seen, panini presses are quite straightforward and easy to use.
Pros & Cons of Using A Panini Press
A panini press can be a great addition to your kitchen, especially if you love to entertain. It can help you create quick and easy meals that will impress your guests. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since there’s only one pan to wash!
If you’re looking for a versatile kitchen appliance, a panini press is definitely worth considering. You can use it to make sandwiches, quesadillas, chicken breasts, burgers, and so much more. Plus, most models come with adjustable heat settings so you can customize your cooking experience.
One of the main benefits of owning a panini press is that it saves time. By prepping all of your ingredients in advance and then using the press to cook them, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. This is ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests.
Cleanup is also a snap with a panini press. Since there’s only one pot or pan to wash, you’ll spend less time cleaning up after dinner. This is especially helpful if you’re short on time or don’t have access to a dishwasher.
Overall, a panini press can be a great addition to your kitchen if you aren’t satisfied with the results you’re getting from your current grill. By preventing flare-ups and browning foods twice as fast, it can help ensure that you’ll have warm and delicious meals in no time.
Other Appliances That Are Similar To Panini Makers
Grill Pans
A grill pan replicates the flavor of an outdoor grill, minus the complication. It helps extract extra fat from the ingredients. It is more efficient in grilling than a panini press. It comes with raised edges and has a rectangular shape.
Just like a panini press, a grill pan allows for a lot of room on the surface, so you do not have to worry about squishing your meals.
Sandwich Maker
Less versatile and efficient than a panini press, but a regular sandwich maker helps you cook delicious sandwiches. It is small and makes a great addition to your kitchen. It is great for toasting and is pretty decent for grilling too.
However, sandwich makers do not come with heavy-duty plates like panini presses.
Oven Broiler
An oven broiler is closely related to a grill as it applies direct and high heat. It is a heating element located around the top side of your oven. It helps offer your food a much more complex flavor by quickly cooking, charring, or caramelizing.
It helps you achieve a variety of textures that make food delicious and ready to devour.
Tips to Clean a Panini Press
Cleaning a panini press is pretty straightforward. Here’s how to do it to keep your appliance in top condition for a long time:
- Nonstick plates can get damaged easily, so always read the manufacturing guide for cleaning that comes with the product.
- Make sure your appliance is unplugged when you clean it for safety reasons.
- In case you have any scrapes on the plates, you can use a panini brush or scraper to remove the buildup.
- Heavy cleaning is often not required in a panini press, but if required, you can use a decarbonizer to do this job.
- Go for soapy water for your grill plates. Make sure they are still warm at this point to remove all the food buildup. Remember, warm, not hot.
- Do not use cold water to clean panini plates that are still warm.
- Use a damp cloth to clean the outer area or surface of the appliance.
Conclusion
Panini presses are versatile, heavy-duty, efficient, and make for a great addition to your kitchen. They are easy to use and easy to clean. However, they are slightly on the higher end of the price range. Having said that, they are absolutely worth it if you see yourself using them often.
Did this article help you make the right choice for yourself? Comment down below and let us know.