How to Choose a Panini Maker
Pressed sandwiches have become quite popular over the years. In fact, many people now request panini makers for the holidays or as a birthday present. Their popularity has also inspired companies to make more affordable models. Don't let these models fool you, though. There are certain features you should look for when buying a panini maker. Not just any pressed sandwich maker will do a good job. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Consider who the panini maker is being bought for. If you're shopping for yourself or a friend, you should consider family size. If you plan on making sandwiches for more than one person, you'll want to invest in a large panini maker. This ensures that you can make at least two sandwiches at once. On the other hand, if the panini maker will be used to cook one sandwich at a time, you can purchase a smaller model. This will give you more money to spend on other features.
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Select models made from metal. A plastic panini maker can't achieve the heat levels of those made from metal. The reason is that the plastic would crack after several uses. Metal, on the other hand, can withstand the high temperatures needed to make a good pressed sandwich.
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Make sure the model is heavy duty. A panini maker needs to be heavy. This is especially true for the lid. A heavy lid ensures that the sandwich is actually pressed rather than just browned. If at all possible, shop in a store that has the models displayed so you can check the weight of each model.
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Look for a hinged lid. Without a hinged lid, you will squish part of your sandwich while the rest goes untouched. With a hinged lid, the model conforms to the size of the sandwich allowing you to cook thick or thin sandwiches perfectly.
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Choose a nonstick model for easy cleanup. No one wants to fight to clean a panini maker. The stuck-on cheese can be a nightmare. That's why a nonstick model is the perfect choice. With a quick wipe of a damp rag, the machine will be clean and ready to put away.
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Tips & Warnings
Online reviews make choosing the right model even easier. A model that can do more than press sandwiches is a great choice for small kitchens.
Avoid models found at discount stores. Usually, these machines break within a few uses or simply do a poor job.
