An electric table grill is ideal for preparing a quick meal without charcoal, a gas bottle or the smoke produced by a traditional barbecue. You can use it to cook meat, fish, vegetables, paninis and toasted sandwiches, either on the worktop or at the table. However, models vary considerably in size, temperature control and ease of cleaning.
If you only look at wattage or an attractive offer, you may run into practical problems later. Below, we outline the key points to consider, along with some popular options for different households.
A grill with 2,000 or 2,400 watts will generally heat up quickly, but that does not automatically tell you anything about its usable grilling capacity. A small cooking surface is still unsuitable for a family, even if the appliance heats powerfully. Always check the grill plate dimensions, rather than looking at wattage alone.
Also look out for conflicting product information. If the wattage in the title differs from that in the technical specifications, check the manual or ask the seller for clarification.
Brands may share their own test results, but these are not automatically applicable in every situation. According to George Foreman’s own research, for example, the George Foreman 28000-56 produces 87% less smoke and odour. In practice, the amount of smoke also depends on the fat, marinade, temperature and type of ingredient.
Always use an indoor barbecue in a well-ventilated room. A drip tray and sloped plates can help, but they do not make cooking completely smoke- or splash-free.
A grill plate may be a non-stick grill, but check whether the plates are removable as well. A fixed plate often needs to be cleaned around the edges, which can allow water to reach the heating element. Also check whether the plates are dishwasher-safe and whether the drip tray can be removed separately.
Do not use metal forks, knives or spatulas on a non-stick coating. Allow the grill to cool completely before removing any parts.
For one or two people, a compact electric grill may be sufficient. The ochama contact grill has plates measuring 22.5 × 14 cm and is particularly suitable for paninis, sandwiches and small portions. For a family, a larger cooking surface is more practical.
Consider the following:
A grill with removable plates is often more versatile, but it usually takes up more space in the kitchen cupboard.
A grill with a thermostat gives you more control than an appliance with just one fixed temperature. Five settings are practical for ingredients with different cooking times. An adjustable range, such as 60 to 230 °C, offers even greater flexibility for steaks, vegetables, sandwiches and delicate fish.
Available wattages generally range from 800 to 2,400 watts. Higher wattage can help with rapid preheating and retaining heat when you add several pieces of food. However, make sure that your socket and any extension lead are suitable for the stated wattage.
A ribbed plate creates grill marks, while a flat plate works better for eggs, pancakes, fish and vegetables. A combination of both makes a plancha grill more versatile. Sloped plates and a drip tray can drain away excess fat. This may reduce the amount of fat in the dish, but it does not automatically make a meal “healthy”.
Also look out for:
Why it suits this profile: This compact model combines an electric grill, sandwich maker and panini press for everyday use and small portions.
The plate size and 800-watt power rating are clearly stated, allowing you to take the limited capacity into account in advance.
Double-sided heating, food-safe non-stick plates and a compact 22.5 × 14 cm cooking surface.
Why it suits this profile: Ideal for anyone who prepares a wide variety of dishes and values automatic programmes more than straightforward operation.
The grill opens to 180 degrees and has removable, dishwasher-safe plates, so you are not limited to one cooking method or difficult maintenance.
9 automatic programmes, four temperature settings and a cooking surface that can also be used as a table barbecue.
Why it suits this profile: The long cooking plate is suitable for families, dinner parties and outdoor use when you want to prepare several ingredients at once.
The 70 × 22 cm dimensions and removable drip tray make the capacity and maintenance requirements easy to assess in advance.
1,800 watts, five heat settings, an aluminium cooking surface with non-stick coating, and indoor or outdoor use.
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.
Yes, many models are designed for indoor use. Place the grill on a flat, heat-resistant surface with sufficient space around it. Ventilate the kitchen and keep curtains, tea towels and other flammable materials away from the appliance. An electric grill does not replace an extractor fan when cooking particularly fatty ingredients.
Its lifespan depends on how it is used, how it is cleaned and the condition of the non-stick coating. Use suitable kitchen utensils, do not heat the plates empty for prolonged periods and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. A model with replaceable or removable parts can be practical if components become worn over time.
Consumption depends on the wattage and how long the grill is used. In theory, a 2,000-watt appliance uses 2 kWh when operating continuously at full power for one hour; in practice, a thermostat will often cycle on and off. To compare it with an oven, consider the wattage, preheating time and total cooking time.