Shopping For A Griddle

A griddle is used primarily for the preparation of pancakes, eggs, grilled sandwiches and other dishes requiring a large, flat cooking area. Many foods traditionally cooked in a frying pan or electric skillet can also be prepared on a griddle. Griddles are highly regarded by professional cooks for their even heating and accessibility. Turning a pancake or grilled sandwich in a standard frying pan can be awkward, but cooks can easily slip a spatula under the food item on a griddle. The even heating temperature of a griddle allows for better presentation and consistent quality. Certain foods such as pancakes and French toast respond much better in a griddle. Traditional cookware creates hot and cold spots, plus the sides of a frying pan can trap unwanted convection heat. A griddle allows food to brown evenly and release excess heat into the surrounding area. A good nonstick griddle does not require additional cooking oil, and food can be placed anywhere on the cooking surface to avoid crowding. A quality griddle should feel sturdy, with a solid metal base for even heating. A nonstick coating is preferable for most applications, so examine the surface for any sign of poor coating application. Griddles without nonstick coatings may have to be seasoned with oil, much like new cast-iron cookware. Eventually a griddle without a nonstick coating should develop a carbonized (blackened through use) surface, which will reduce sticking. A few sprays of food oil should also help a griddle become seasoned. This item can be purchased in shops around Bahrain that sell kitchen items.