electric planchas

How does an electric plancha work ?

An electric plancha works by heating an electrically conductive surface, usually metal, to the desired temperature. This surface is usually covered with a non-stick material to prevent food from sticking to it.

When the plancha is switched on, an electric current passes through the heating elements integrated into the surface, which heat it. The temperature is controlled by a thermostat that regulates the flow of electricity to the heating elements.

Once the plancha plate has reached the desired temperature, food can be placed on the surface to be cooked. Surface heat is transferred to food through a process called conduction. This means that heat energy is transferred from the metal surface to the food, making it cooked evenly and thoroughly.

What are the advantages of an electric plancha compared to a gas plancha ?

Electric planchas have several advantages over gas planchas. Here are some of them:

• Easy to use: Electric plates are easier to use because you just plug them in and wait for them to heat up. You don't have to worry about gas lines or fuel sources.
• Homogeneous heat: The plate is heated evenly over the entire surface, which means that food is also cooked evenly.
• Indoor use: They can be used indoors, which is not always the case with gas planchas. Therefore, they are an excellent choice for cooking when outdoor cooking is not possible.
• Safety: They are generally considered safer than gas planchas because there is no risk of gas leakage or fire.

How do you clean an electric plancha ?

To clean an electric plancha, it is important to unplug it and let it cool down before you start. Then use a spatula or scraper to remove excess food or fat from the surface. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth or sponge, making sure that the electrical components do not come into contact with water. For stubborn stains, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water. Finally, rinse the surface with clean water and dry with a towel. Some planchas also have removable hobs that can be cleaned in the dishwasher.

How to choose a high-quality electric plancha ?

There are a few factors to consider when choosing an electric plancha:

• Size: Consider the plancha size and the space it will take up in your kitchen or countertop. Also, think about how much food you usually cook in.
• Heat control: Look for a plancha plate with temperature settings to better control the cooking process.
• Surface material: Take into account the surface material of the plancha plate, which can affect the cooking quality and ease of cleaning. Non-stick surfaces are usually easier to clean.
• Sustainability: Look for a plancha made of sustainable materials

What is the difference between an electric plancha and an electric grill ?

The main difference between an electric plancha plate and an electric barbecue is the cooking surface. Electric plancha plates have a flat, smooth surface that is ideal for cooking foods such as pancakes, eggs, and bacon, while electric grills have a grooved surface that leaves marks on food, making them ideal for cooking steaks, burgers, and vegetables.

Can I use an electric plancha indoors ?

Yes, electric planchas can be used indoors, making them a good choice for cooking when outdoor cooking is not possible. They are designed to be safe to use in a kitchen or interior. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure that the plate is used in a well-ventilated area to avoid smoke.

How much does a high-quality electric plancha cost ?

The price of an electric plancha can vary depending on its size and characteristics. It's always helpful to read reviews and compare prices before making a purchase to make sure you're getting the best value for your money.

How to maintain an electric plancha ?

Follow these tips to maintain an electric plancha:

• Clean the surface after each use: once the plate has cooled, wipe it with a damp cloth or sponge. For stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner.
• Treat the plate: To prevent food from sticking to the surface, you can treat the plate with a thin layer of vegetable oil. Heat the plate to a high temperature and apply the oil with a paper towel.
• Use appropriate tools: Use a spatula or tongs to flip the food on the plate. Avoid using metal utensils that can scratch the surface.

How to cook with an electric plancha ?

• Preheat the plancha: Turn on the plancha and let it preheat for a few minutes before adding the food.
• Use the right temperature: Set the temperature according to the type of food you are preparing. For example, lower temperatures are more suitable for cooking delicate foods such as eggs, while higher temperatures are more suitable for cooking meat and vegetables.
• Use appropriate accessories: Use a spatula or tongs to flip the food on the platter. Avoid using metal utensils that can scratch the surface.

What are the most popular dishes that can be prepared on an electric plancha plate ?

Pancakes, bacon, eggs, grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas, burgers, and vegetables such as onions, peppers, and mushrooms are all dishes that can be prepared on an electric plancha plate. Electric cooktops are versatile and can be used to cook a variety of dishes quickly and easily.

How to prepare a plancha for first use ?

To prepare a plancha for first use, follow these steps:

• Wash the surface: Remove all packaging materials and wash the surface with soap and warm water.
• Rinse and dry: Rinse the surface with clean water and dry with a clean towel or cloth.
• Treat the plancha plate: apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the surface and heat the plancha at high temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes. Allow the plate to cool down, then wipe off the excess oil.

How to prevent food from sticking to an electric plancha plate ?

To prevent food from sticking to the electric plancha, you can do the following:

• Treat the surface: before cooking, apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the surface and heat the plancha for a few minutes.
• Use a nonstick cooking spray: Spray the surface with a nonstick spray before cooking.
• Adjust the temperature: Make sure the temperature is right for the type of food you're preparing. Lower temperatures are suitable for delicate foods such as eggs, while higher temperatures are better for cooking meat and vegetables.

How long does it take to heat an electric plancha plate before you start cooking ?

How long it takes to heat up an electric plancha before cooking depends on the model and the desired temperature. In general, most planchas take between 5 and 10 minutes to heat up. 

How to adjust the temperature of an electric plancha ?

To adjust the temperature of a plancha, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Most electric planchas have a temperature adjustment knob or a digital display that allows you to adjust the temperature. Typically, the temperature can vary from 150°C to 250°C, and some models have specific temperature settings for different types of food. It is important to adjust the temperature to the type of food to be cooked to ensure homogeneous cooking and avoid burns.