100 Niantic Ave. Suite 104, Providence, RI 02907; 401-273-3300; fax 401-273-3328;
Vitroceramic Panini Grills Operational Hints
Pre-Heat Time
Vitroceramic grills, due to the unique material of the platens - glass with
ceramic particles -, allow for heat transfer and cooking with two sources of
heat: surface contact and infra-red radiant. The pre-heat time is quick and the
heat is uniform throughout the surface of the grill platens. The red glow of the
infra-red elements are visible through the vitroceramic glass surface when the
element is on. It takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes for the grill to reach the
desired temperature and saturate the platens evenly.
Cooking Surface
Since the cooking surface is literally "as smooth as glass", there is no need for
over-lubricating the platens with excessive amounts of oil or butter.
An occasional light spraying may be needed (preferably directly on the food),
depending on the product being prepared. This technique allows the use of the
grills anywhere with limited exhaust ventilation. Since little or no oil is
necessary and the grills are designed to be sleek and portable, they function
ideally for out-front display cooking.
Cooking Hints
The surface of the grills allows quick and uniform warming, toasting and grilling
at temperatures generally ranging between 350F and 450F. Food products
should be placed DIRECTLY on the glass surface to allow both sources of heat
to reach the food products.
Never use foil on the glass surfaces as this will
reflect the infra-red rays back into the ceramic chamber and could cause the
safety thermostat to trip
.
Parchment paper
can be used. This also lengthens
cooking time considerably. In addition to heat from both top and bottom
platens, the combined contact and
infra-red sources of heat will further reduce cooking times.
Cleaning the Grills
The Vitroceramic grill surfaces should be wiped with a damp sponge and a
solution of soap or vinegar and water at the end of the day. The grills should
NEVER be submerged in water. The stainless steel body of the grill can be
cleaned in a similar way. A glass razor scraper can be used to remove any
further build up of food residue on the grill surface, and then finished with a
scrub pad. In addition, glass top stove cleaner may be used to clean debris
from micro scratches, to provide a more aesthetic look.
