Panini makers are countertop tools that are used to make traditional panini, a small Italian sandwich. You can also call it Panini Press, Grill Press, or Panini Grill. It’s more of a grill, with heated plates at both the top and bottom that allow for simultaneous pressing and grilling.
Panini makers are made of cast iron or aluminum material. They come in a variety of shapes, including square or rectangular grill plates with different weights. Panini makers are simple appliances that you can use to prepare a variety of dishes in the kitchen. These machines are a worthy purchase if you plan to make more than just paninis. You can also check our buying guide on the sandwich maker so you can easily make delicious sandwiches at home.
Panini Press Plate Materials
The plate material is what makes one Panini Press different from others. There are many plate materials to choose from. Each type of plate, from aluminum to cast iron to non-stick, is unique and can produce a completely different outcome when used in commercial kitchens.
Aluminum Panini Press
Aluminum is ideal for those who may not use the appliance more often. It comes with good heat retention properties that allow it to heat up quickly. The unit with aluminum plates may be switched off between usage to save energy.
Cast Iron Panini Press
Cast iron is ideal for establishments that use a panini press continuously. It provides consistent, even heat and is more durable than other metals. It can also retain heat longer for consistent results.
Non-stick Panini Press
The non-stick is an excellent choice if you are concerned about your health and want to cut down on oil and fat in your cooking. Non-Stick models are a good alternative to aluminum for intermittent use in small restaurants. It’s also easy to clean. The reviews of Isiler Panini Press show that this model comes with nonstick coated plates to offer fast and even heating.
Ceramic Panini Press
A panini press with ceramic plates is a good option for those looking for a healthy lifestyle. The non-stick surface comes with no added chemicals or toxic coating and it allows you to cook without the need for grease. Ceramic Panini Press is both PTFE and PFOA-free. The new models come with removable plates and are dishwasher safe, which makes them easy to clean and maintain.
Panini Press Plate Configurations
You now have a better understanding of the various types of plate materials. Now it is time to select your plate configuration. There are many options for grill plates when it comes to commercial sandwich grills. You can choose from smooth or grooved plates depending on the type of food you’re going to make. You can also go with models like Hamilton Beach 25460A which come with locking lid options. This model has got good reviews for its stylish chrome finish.
Grooved Top and Bottom
The grill lines are placed on top and bottom of food products to add visual appeal to panini sandwiches or grilled meats. This grill can be used to cook different foods.
Smooth Top and Bottom
A flat iron sandwich press with smooth plates is ideal for making grilled cheese sandwiches and quesadillas. Food item comes in complete contact with the plates, and the food is cooked evenly. This is because of its smooth cooking surface.
Grooved Top/Smooth Bottom
A grooved top with a smooth bottom is the best combination of both. You can also use the bottom plate as a griddle or warmer. Simply close the top lid for the grill marks on your food item.
Dual Grooved and Smooth
The dual unit has a dual lid option. It has split lids with grooved plates on one end and smooth plates on the other. These units are ideal for high-volume applications, where a single appliance can be used for multiple tasks.
Features to Look for While Choosing the Right Panini Press
Floating Hinge
The floating hinge grill can be closed at different heights. It comes with the top plate of a sandwich grill that can adjust to cooking food with different thicknesses. This grill can handle a longer grilled cheese sandwich on a baguette, as well as a tall sandwich. The upper plate can be set to hover over the open-face panini so that they don’t come in direct contact. This feature is standard on most panini grills that are there in the market.
A commercial sandwich grill with an adjustable top can eliminate smashed foods. The top plate will also become self-leveling, so you can ensure even cooking. This hinged lid can cook foods up to 3 inches thick.
The OVENTE Panini Press Grill comes with an adjustable floating hinge that allows you to make sandwiches of any thickness.
Adjustable Thermostat
An adjustable thermostat can be useful if you intend to grill different foods. You can look for an adjustable thermostat if you will use the Panini grills to make hamburgers. The temperature of burgers is higher than that of sandwiches. That is why it’s important to have the ability to control it. You can save money by using the thermostat to cook a panini.
Grill Area
Some people may prefer a smaller grill like a top-quality Proctor Silex 25440PS because of the space limitations in their kitchen. A large grill area is a must for those who love to make many Panini at once. The most important difference between a low-end grill and one of higher quality is its size. You can use the smaller grill if you intend to cook one or two paninis at once.
Removable Plates
Panini Press with a removable plate is easy to maintain. Panini fillings can flow from the bread onto the grill grates. This can make clean-up a little difficult task. It is easier to clean up a grill with removable plates. You can often just put them in the dishwasher.
Timers
A panini press equipped with a timer will allow you to set the time and do other tasks while you wait for your sandwiches to cook. You can increase the efficiency of your kitchen without worrying about food wastage.
Ergonomic Handles
Many models like Chefore Panini Press come with ergonomic and cool-touch handles that are lower in profile and easier to reach. These easy-to-reach handles are also ADA-compliant that ensuring safety.
Size of Panini Press
Panini press comes in different sizes: a mini Panini press, a small Panini press, and a large Panini press. It becomes important to find the right space to fit in the new appliances with so many appliances in the kitchen. It is a good idea to identify the spot for your new appliances. Make sure you know the available space and buy the appliance that fits well in your kitchen.
How to Use Panini Press?
Step 1: Turn on your Panini Press
Plug it into an outlet, turn it on and it will start working. You may need to adjust the temperature of your plates depending on which model you have. Simply select the medium-high temperature that your model allows.
Step 2: Coat Oil on the Griddles
Second, oil should be applied to the panini press’s cooking surface. This helps to ensure that your food doesn’t burn on the plates. You can follow this step even if your model comes with non-stick plates. Adding oil will brown your panini sandwiches perfectly.
Step 3: Preheat your Panini Press
The lid of the panini press should be closed and the plates heated. This will make the bread crispier and contrast nicely with the soft, warm fillings. Modern panini presses have an indicator light that turns green when the plates get hot.
Step 4: Assemble your Panini
Use the time your panini maker takes to heat to begin assembling the ingredients. Make sure you don’t fill your sandwich too much. You can spill the fillings without causing a huge mess.
Step 5: Let the Panini cook
Close the lid once your panini has been placed on the griddles. You should ensure that you apply force to your sandwich. Panini presses come with a clasp that helps you close the lid. This will allow you to make grill marks on both sides of your bread.
Cooking your panini should not take more than five to seven minutes. You can monitor the progress of your panini at regular intervals. The bread should be well browned, and the cheese (if any) should be melted.
Step 6: Serve your Panini
Once your sandwich is ready, unplug it from the panini press. Next, use a spatula to gently lift the sandwich from the griddle. You should not use any metal utensils to lift your sandwich from the press, particularly if you are using a non-stick panini machine.
How to Clean the Panini Press?
Here is how to clean a Panini press in a matter of a few minutes. We have listed three methods for cleaning Panini Press depending upon the type of press and how messy your appliance is.
Panini Press with Removable Plates
Some panini grills come with removable plates. This modern feature is a great option, as there’s very little clean-up.
Allow your panini press to cool down after use. When the panini press is at room temperature, take out the grill plates and wash them by hand. Use warm soapy water to wash them and a soft sponge to scrub them. Do not use abrasive cleaners or brushes.
You can directly wash them in a dishwasher if your plates are dishwasher safe. After that, you can air-dry them and place them back once they are completely dried.
Wipe the Plates After Every Use
This second method works best if your panini maker doesn’t have removable plates. After you have finished using your panini press, allow it to cool down for a while before you start cleaning. After that, take a piece of paper towel and wash it with warm water. Then, clean the panini plates to remove the food particles or grease. The steam that forms when water touches hot panini plates will make it easy to clean.
Cleaning a Dirty Panini Press
Make a solution of baking soda. Mix two tablespoons of baking powder and half a cup of warm water. Combine it thoroughly and pour it onto your panini grill plates.
Allow it to rest for a minimum of ten minutes, then use a damp dishcloth or moistened towel to wipe it off. Wrap a chopstick in a wet towel to reach the hard-to-reach places. Be gentle. All that grease and food bits should be gone by now.
Conclusion
The best panini presses are worthy kitchen appliances that you can use for preparing mini cakes, mashed potatoes, and waffle cones. It is important to keep your appliances clean and well-maintained for long-lasting usage.
You can also check our other blog on the waffle maker and know everything about the waffle maker. The waffle maker also provides delicious home-cooked restaurant-like waffles right at your home comfort. Make sure you look for honest reviews and genuine recommendations before making any purchase.
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