How to choose a waffle iron
Many housewives dream of having a waffle iron in their own kitchen. Using this kitchen unit, you can prepare delicious, mouth-watering waffles with different fillings. Homemade baked goods are still much different from store-bought ones. But not many people know how to choose the right waffle iron and what characteristics to pay attention to.
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What to consider when choosing an electric waffle iron
When choosing a device, you should consider:
- operational characteristics of the model;
- size;
- presence of non-stick coating;
- material;
- functions;
- possibility of settings.
Sometimes, the range of household appliances in a store makes your eyes wide open. But, alas, we often don’t buy what we want. Much depends on the state of the budget.
REFERENCE! Reviews about the manufacturer on the Internet can serve as a guide to choosing a waffle iron. It wouldn’t hurt to have help from a consultant in the store; before purchasing, you should also read the information in the product data sheet.
When purchasing a device, you should decide on the size. If the kitchen is small, then it is accordingly better to choose a compact size with a compartment for the cord. This model takes up little space and fits on any shelf or drawer. For large rooms, the size of the unit, by and large, does not matter.
When purchasing, you should pay attention to the bottom coating. Must not be:
- bulges;
- bubbles;
- small cracks;
- scratches
The surface should be smooth - this is the key to the waffle iron serving for quite a long time. Oil consumption is minimal; usually one lubrication is enough.
The material can be plastic or metal. The advantage of a metal waffle iron is its strength and resistance to various external influences. If dropped, the plastic will burst and break off.
The set of functions for all models is almost the same, but the thickness of the finished waffles is different.
IMPORTANT! Some models have a rotating function that allows you to rotate independently when pouring dough and distribute the dough evenly. Waffle irons are considered popular because they can prepare not only waffles, but also other delicious dishes.
Equipped with a thermostat, it helps to achieve a crispy crust when baking. The temperature thermostat plays an important function - without it you can get a raw product. Thanks to the presence of a timer, you will be able to find out the exact cooking time - the lamp will signal when it is ready.
REFERENCE! The power of some models of waffle irons reaches 1000 W. This indicator is suitable for implementing the grill function. Usually 600 W is enough to save energy.
What types of waffle irons are there?
The models of waffle irons are:
- With high sides and up to six compartments. The shape can be square or triangular - for making thick and airy waffles. Requires pouring a large amount of dough.
- Round, oval. For thin dough and making tubes and cakes.
- Oreshnitsa. A convex surface on one side with a depression on the other half.
- Tart maker. Designed for receiving baskets. It has more than one container. There is the possibility of laying out the filling.
- With grill platform. It has several removable connectors for different types.You can fry meat products with a crispy crust.
General rules for safe operation
The rules for using waffle irons are in many ways similar to the recommendations for using any electrical appliance:
- Before starting work, you must check the integrity of the cord and plug. The cord must be undamaged.
- The current source must not show signs of combustion.
- The outlet must be grounded.
- The device must be installed on dry surfaces.
- The power of the device must match the voltage in the outlet.
- Direct sunlight must be avoided.
IMPORTANT! Compliance with safety precautions must be carried out in full. During the cooking process, you must ensure that children do not approach the appliance.
After completing the cooking process, remember to turn off the waffle iron and unplug the power cord. Only then, when it has cooled completely, should you wipe the unit with a damp cloth, remove any remaining dough, and remove any remaining oil from the bottom side. Next, you need to wipe the waffle iron dry and let it stand open for 15 minutes. Then you can safely put the device away until next use. There is no need to wrap the cord around the surface to avoid damage.