Panini grills and sandwich makers

Panini grills and sandwich makers are an inexpensive ways of turning a plain sandwich into a hot snack. They are available in a huge range of styles and colors. The first thing you should consider is whether you want a sandwich toaster or a grill, which is more expensive, but more versatile.
Sandwich makers have fixed hinges and are suitable for making two sandwiches in specially-shaped compartments. They are made for standard bread sizes.

Grills, however, have "floating" hinges that automatically adjust for thicker types of bread, like focaccia, panini and ciabata. These grills are also suitable for cooking steaks, chicken and other similar foods. They don't have compartments so you can cook as many sandwiches as will fit.
Almost all sandwich makers and grills have a light indicator that will tell you when surface is hot and ready to use. They all range in power from about 600-1000 watts. The more powerful ones cook quicker and are also more expensive.

The inside of the sandwich makers and grills consists of the metal plates. They should be made from a non-stick, scratch-resistant coating. You might also want to consider the ones that come off which makes it very easy to clean and are dishwasher safe.

Look for sandwich makers and grills that have variable heat controls. Some of them are slanted meaning that juices/fats drain away, which is much healthier than frying. If you decide for a more expensive model, make sure that it has a timer and bells to let you know when your creation is ready.

Considerations for all small appliances:

• Determine your cooking needs and wants - both current and future. Is your family growing or growing up and moving out? Are you interested in increasing your culinary endeavors? Are you wishing to simplify and reduce time in the kitchen?
  
  
• Evaluate your kitchen counter space. Where are you going to put all those new small appliances?
  
  
• Check the height of the appliance compared to the height of your cabinets.
  Appliances that mount under the cabinet are available.
  
  
• Decide on the color of your new small appliance.
  
  
• Determine the appliance capacity. The number of speeds and settings on an appliance usually increases with the size of the machine. Those who have large families or like to entertain may choose to buy larger appliances.
  
  
• Decide whether you want corded or cordless appliances.

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