How to Operate a George Foreman Grill

In 1994, George Foreman introduced the world to the Lean, Mean, Fat Reducing Machine, otherwise known as The George Foreman Grill. The product was an electric indoor grill that cooked foods on both sides at the same time, reducing cooking time. The non-stick grill plates were set at an angle, allowing the fat to drain away as food cooked, lowering the overall fat content. The original Foreman grill was designed to cook four hamburger patties at one time. Since its introduction and amazing success, the grill has undergone many transformations. It is currently available in a range of sizes, from extra large designs that are billed as indoor/outdoor and are intended to feed a large group, to the Baby Foreman with built-in bun warmer, designed for solo use. No matter what size your Foreman is, they all operate in a similar manner.

Things You'll Need

• George Foreman Grill, any model
• Non-stick cooking spray or cooking oil

Instructions

1. Place the grill on a flat surface, clear from overhead items, and plug the machine in.

2. Locate the switch along the bottom edge of the grill. Press the switch. A light will come on to let you know the grill is warming up.

3. Open the grill and spray the grill plates with non-stick cooking spray or brush them with a light coat of cooking oil.

4. Close the grill. When the indicator light goes out, open the grill, place the food on the grill plate and close the George Foreman. The fat will drain out at an opening near the handle, so make sure you have a container there to catch it. The grill usually comes with two drip trays designed for this purpose.

5. Check your food frequently while cooking. Foods prepared on the George Foreman grill can cook as much as three times faster than they do using conventional cooking methods.

6. Clean your grill after each use. When you have removed the food, turn the switch to "Off" and unplug it. Open the grill. Place damp paper towels on the grill plates and close the grill. When the grill has cooled completely, remove the towels and wipe the grill plates with a damp cloth to remove any remaining debris.

Tips & Warnings

• Boneless cuts of meat tend to work better on the George Foreman, if only because they allow the lid to close. Foods cook faster as heat is being applied to both sides at once. Be sure to check your food frequently to see if it is done. Remove food with a plastic spatula to avoid damaging the grill surface.

• Do not dump fat that has drained off your food down the sink. Wait for it to cool and scrape it into the trash. Use caution when opening the grill to check for doneness as fatty meats, such as bacon, are known to 'pop' while cooking and splatter hot grease.

Resources

• The George Foreman Grill Homepage