A griddle is a flat cooking surface that can be placed on a range or used as a separate electrical unit. It is ideal for cooking foods that require a large, flat cooking area and allows for even heating and consistent quality. A non-stick coating is preferable, and a sturdy metal base is important for even heating.
A griddle is a specialized piece of cookware with a flat cooking area and a nonstick or charred surface. They are often placed across two heating elements in a range, sold as separate electrical units, or installed as part of a commercial grill in restaurant kitchens. Grill plates are typically used to cook pancakes, eggs, grilled sandwiches, and other dishes that require a large, flat cooking area.
Many foods traditionally cooked in a skillet or electric skillet can also be prepared on a griddle. Professional chefs usually like them because they cook evenly and are accessible. Turning a pancake or grilled sandwich into a standard skillet can be awkward, but cooks can easily slip a spatula under the food on a griddle’s wide, flat surface. Its uniform heating temperature allows for better presentation and consistent quality.
Some foods like pancakes and French toast respond much better in a griddle. Traditional pans create hot and cold spots, plus the sides of a pan can trap unwanted convection heat. A griddle allows food to brown evenly and release excess heat to the surrounding area. Frying pans can pile up foods like fried eggs, and oil tends to pool around food as it cooks. A good non-stick griddle requires no additional cooking oil, and food can be placed anywhere on the cooking surface to avoid crowding.
A quality griddle should be sturdy, with a solid metal base for even heating. A nonstick coating is preferable for most applications, so examine the surface for any signs of poor coating application. Non-stick surfaces like Teflon or SilverStone are usually high quality brands. Non-electric versions must be fitted to the top heating elements of the stove completely and securely. Electric units should allow for various heat settings and also a non-stick cooking surface. Griddles without nonstick coatings may need to be seasoned with oil, just like new cast iron cookware. Those without a non-stick coating should develop a charred (blackened from use) surface which will reduce adhesion. A few squirts of cooking oil like Pam cooking spray should also help a griddle become seasoned.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
