The sandwich maker is an appliance that is found in many kitchens. In an older version, with special compartments for bread, or in a more modern version, which looks like a grill. Especially the 2nd is also useful for making other dishes.
Sandwich maker or sandwich maker?
The sandwich grill often consists of a large plate, with ridges in both the lid and the bottom. This gives the sandwiches a nice stripe. Anyone who likes to eat paninis will enjoy the grill more than the classic device. This elongated sandwich fits better under the grill. But there are more dishes to make.
Read also: Here’s how you clean (and maintain) your sandwich maker
Crispy potatoes
You can also make crispy potatoes with the sandwich maker. This can be done in the oven, but it goes a little faster in the iron, as it receives heat from both sides. First boil the potatoes in salted water. Then mash them with a fork or spoon. Sprinkle them with a drizzle of olive oil and brown them crispy in the appliance. Top with herbs of your choice, such as Italian herbs and coarse salt.
Grilling meat with the sandwich maker
Meat that you normally cook in a broiler pan can also be used in the sandwich maker. Because both sides heat and cook at the same time, the cooking time is shorter. Hamburgers, in particular, are easy to fry in the appliance. But slices of bacon or a piece of chicken breast are also possible. Keep in mind that (a lot of) fat can come out of meat. Some sandwich grills already have a built-in drip tray, otherwise it is advisable to place paper towels in the front and back of the unit. This can catch the worst of the fat.
Grill vegetables and fruits
In addition to meat, vegetables can also be grilled in the appliance. Cut the vegetables into (thin) slices and brush them with a little (olive) oil. Otherwise, they may stick to the sandwich maker. It depends on the type of vegetable how long they need to grill. So check it regularly. Fruits are also good for grilling, like pineapple.
Toast quesadillas in the sandwich maker
A sandwich, but different. It’s the quesadilla. This one can be simplified with just 2 wraps and grated cheese in between. But most often several ingredients are added. This chicken version from Mounir Toub, for example. Originally, the quesadilla is fried in the pan, but it’s easier in the sandwich maker. The 2 wraps have to be flipped in the pan, which sometimes fails. Both sides are heated simultaneously in the device.
Make waffles without a waffle maker
Our neighbors to the south make delicious ones: waffles. You can also make them yourself and you don’t always need a special waffle maker. It’s a matter of taste, not appearance. This is why it is also excellent to prepare in the sandwich maker. Look for inspiration on our recipe page.
Read also: Is a sandwich less healthy than a regular cheese sandwich?
(Source: Culy, Telegraaf, archives. Photos: Shutterstock)