Panini Press, Open Grill, Griddle | Cuisinart GR-4A guide

When cooking more than one food item in the Contact Grill, it is important that the thickness of food items is consistent so the cover will close evenly on the food.

Panini Press:

Use the Griddler as a Panini Press to grill sandwiches, breads and quesadillas.

The word “Panini” is an Italian term for grilled sandwich. Panini can include any combination of ingredients such as vegetables, meat and cheese layered between two pieces of fresh baked bread. The sandwich is then pressed between two grill or griddle plates to toast the bread and warm the sandwich. Experiment to make a variety of savoury or sweet sandwiches for any meal. We recommend using fresh baked bread to produce the best tasting Panini. Popular breads used for Panini are focaccia (a flat bread frequently baked with rosemary, salt and onion on top), michetta (a small round roll with a crisp crust), ciabatta (a rectangular bread with a slightly domed crust) and thick slices of classic Italian bread.

When the Griddler is used as a Panini Press, the grill plates are recommended. We recommend the grill plates because a traditional- style Panini sandwich will have grill marks on the bread. However, depending upon the type of sandwich you are preparing, you may wish to use the griddle plates. The Griddler functions as a Panini Press in the same manner that it functions as a Contact Grill. The Griddler was designed with a unique

handle and hinge that allows the cover to

adjust to the thickness of the sandwich you are preparing, and

to rest there evenly. Light pressure can be applied to the handle to press and heat the

sandwich to your liking.

When cooking more

than one Panini, it is important that the thickness of each sandwich

is consistent so the cover will close evenly on the Panini.

Open Grill:

Use the Griddler as an Open Grill to cook burgers, steak, poultry (we do not recommend cooking bone-in chicken, since it does not cook evenly on an open grill), fish and vegetables.

Cooking on the Open Grill is the most versatile method of using the Griddler. In the open position, you have double the surface area

(500 sq. cm) for grilling. You have the option of cooking different types of foods on separate plates without combining their flavors, or cooking large amounts of the same type of food. The open position also accommodates different cuts of meat with varying thicknesses, allowing you to cook each piece to your liking.

“Open Grill” refers to using the Griddler with the cover

laying flat,

creating a

double, flat cooking

surface. In this position, the foods you are grilling will have to be turned over for cooking. When the Griddler is used as an Open Grill, the grill plates should be used.

Griddle:

Use the Griddler as a Griddle to cook pancakes, eggs, French toast, hash browns and breakfast meats.

Using the Griddle function is a wonderful way to prepare

breakfast

for two or for a

large

family.

The large surface

area allows you to cook a variety of different foods

at the same time, or large amounts of your favorite food.

When you use the Griddler as a Griddle, open the cover so it lays flat, creating a double, flat cooking surface. In this position, the foods you are preparing will have to be turned over for cooking. When using this cooking function, the griddle plates should be used.

GR-4A specifications

The Cuisinart GR-4A is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to meet the needs of home cooks and food enthusiasts alike. This multifunctional grill and sandwich maker is well-regarded for its ability to grill, press, and make paninis with ease, making it a go-to tool for quick and delicious meals.

One of the standout features of the GR-4A is its four-in-one functionality, allowing users to select between a grill, griddle, panini press, or contact grill. This flexibility means it can handle an array of cooking tasks, from searing steaks and cooking vegetables to making crispy sandwiches and pancakes. The adjustable temperature dial provides precise control, ensuring each dish is cooked to perfection.

The non-stick, cast aluminum cooking plates are another advantage of the Cuisinart GR-4A. These plates not only facilitate easy removal of food but also ensure a healthier cooking experience by requiring less oil. The plates are removable and dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. Additionally, their even heat distribution leads to consistent cooking results every time.

A unique feature of the GR-4A is its floating hinge, which accommodates various thicknesses of food. This means you can press everything from thinly sliced vegetables to thick paninis without worrying about uneven cooking. The indicator lights further enhance usability by showing when the unit is powered on and when it has reached the desired temperature.

Safety is also a priority with the Cuisinart GR-4A. The stainless steel housing not only adds durability but also remains cool to the touch during cooking. Its compact design makes it easy to store, making it suitable for kitchens with limited counter space.

In conclusion, the Cuisinart GR-4A is an excellent investment for anyone looking to diversify their cooking methods. With its four-in-one functionality, user-friendly design, and superior construction, it stands out as an essential kitchen companion. Whether grilling meats, frying eggs, or making gourmet sandwiches, this appliance delivers delicious results with minimal effort, appealing to both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.