Vandaag of morgen in huis
Kwaliteit gegarandeerd
Welkomstaanbiedingen ontgrendelen: GRATIS bezorging | Tot 80% korting | Gratis 30 dagen JoyPlus-proefperiode
Download de app
A contact grill can be much more than an appliance for toasted sandwiches. You can use it to prepare meat, fish, vegetables, paninis and sandwiches. Some models also work as an electric grill, tabletop grill or indoor barbecue grill. Even so, the options are not always easy to compare. Power, grilling surface and ease of cleaning are often highlighted prominently, while important details receive less attention.
A power rating of 2,000 or 2,400 watts sounds impressive, but it is not the only factor that determines how well a grill performs. Heat distribution, the size of the plates and temperature control also matter. A compact 1,000-watt grill may be suitable for two people, while a large tabletop grill needs more power to bring its entire surface up to temperature.
So look at the combination of power, grilling surface and intended use. An appliance for paninis has different requirements from a grill designed for family meals.
Check whether the grill plates are removable and whether the product specifications state that they are dishwasher-safe. With some models, only the fat collection tray is dishwasher-safe. The housing and electrical components must never be submerged in water.
When using a grill with a non-stick coating, use wooden, silicone or heat-resistant plastic spatulas. Metal utensils can damage the coating. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions as well.
An appliance that opens out into a barbecue, works in oven mode and comes with different plates offers more possibilities. However, it is often larger as a result. Measure the available worktop space beforehand and check how you will store the appliance. A model that can be stored upright is more practical in a smaller Dutch kitchen.
For one or two people, a compact surface may be sufficient. For example, the Tefal Inicio Compact GC270D has a cooking surface of 23 × 14.5 cm and a power rating of 1,000 watts. That makes it suitable for a quick lunch or a few paninis.
For families or entertaining, a larger grill plate is more convenient. The Philips Table Grill HD6210/90 has a stated surface area of 1,250 cm² and a power rating of 2,400 watts. An open tabletop grill is also more convenient when several people want to cook ingredients at the same time.
A basic contact grill with one fixed temperature is mainly suitable for toasted sandwiches and simple recipes. For meat, fish, vegetables and delicate ingredients, an adjustable thermostat is more practical. Five heat settings give you more control than simply switching the appliance on or off.
An automatic programme can be useful, but check exactly what the appliance measures. According to the product description of certain Tefal OptiGrill models, the sensor measures the thickness of the ingredients and adjusts the cooking time. This is a claim made by the brand; it does not guarantee that every ingredient or portion will produce the same result.
Pay attention to the following points:
Using less oil can fit into a lighter cooking style, but the final nutritional value depends on the ingredients and cooking method.
Why it suits this profile: This compact model is designed for simple meals for around two people and can be stored upright.
The product specifications clearly state a cooking surface of 23 × 14.5 cm. This tells you in advance that it is not a model for large family portions.
1,000 watts, non-stick plates, fat collection and vertical storage in a compact design.
Why it suits this profile: The combination of grill, panini, barbecue and oven functions is ideal for households looking for one appliance that can handle multiple cooking methods.
According to the product information, the plates are removable and dishwasher-safe. The specifications also state that it has an adjustable thermostat and floating top plate.
Four cooking functions, nine automatic programmes according to the product description, and a cooking surface of 30 × 20 cm.
Why it suits this profile: The large surface is designed for several diners and for preparing meat, fish, vegetables or eggs at the same time.
The product information lists five temperature levels, a reversible grill and griddle plate, removable plates and a removable fat collection tray.
2,400 watts, a 1,250 cm² cooking surface and five heat settings for flexible use at the table.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
That depends on the model and how easy it is to clean. An appliance with sturdy plates, a fat collection tray and straightforward controls is practical for everyday use. Allow the grill to cool down completely after use, remove loose parts according to the manual and check the coating regularly.
For a compact sandwich maker or panini grill, around 1,000 watts is often suitable. A large tabletop grill generally needs more power, for example 1,800 to 2,400 watts. Alongside the wattage, always consider the grilling surface and temperature control.
This is possible with models that have enough surface area, but be aware of cross-contamination. Use clean utensils, cook raw meat thoroughly and clean the plates according to the instructions. An open teppanyaki grill or tabletop grill gives you more space to keep ingredients separate.
