Sandwich Maker Vs Griller sounds familiar? And we taught them they were the same. Many users appear to use both the terms interchangeably without realizing that it could severely affect their culinary outcomes. After all, it has got to be something about the ‘pieces of bread.’ Wrong. Sandwich makers and grillers are two very different appliances and have very different functions for the kind of cooking that you might want to indulge upon.
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What is Sandwich Maker?
Also known as the ‘pie iron, or the ‘toastie iron,’ the sandwich maker has been around for quite some time. The appliance consists of two cast iron or Aluminium plates hinged together on long handles. The Sandwich maker is used to toast, heat, grill, and seal two slices of bread to make a sandwich. It is a ‘Clamshell’ design, much like a Waffle Iron, and might have ridges for the ‘heat patterns’ to form on the resulting Sandwiches. These are lovingly called ‘Toasties’ but have various names depending upon the country we are in.
Advantages of a Sandwich Maker
- It’s perfect for quick, hot sandwiches that can be prepared in a jiffy.
- Can also be used for the preparation of fish, veggies, eggs, meat, and more.
- Has precise protection against overheating.
Disadvantages of a Sandwich Maker
- The materials can be fragile if the device is not of good quality.
- There are times when the concerned design will not be able to close the shutters in the long run.
- The Cord length can be a major issue, as most models have rather constraining lengths of cord that make it ineffective in the ease of use.
Also Read: Best Sandwich Maker in India 2021
What is a Griller?
‘Grilling’ is a term used for the process of cooking where the heat is supplied from above, below, or the sides. In this process, a significant amount of heat is supplied directly and can cook the food item relatively quickly. The appliance itself is an open wire ‘grid’ of an arrangement where the heat is supplied from above or below. In this cooking type, heat transfers by the process of direct conduction. The temperature reached when using a grill can be 260 C or more.
Advantages of a Griller
- According to nutritionists, the overall food quality involves fewer oils and fats when prepared over a grill.
- The food is delicious. There is no denying the fact that grilled food items taste heavenly, and this is the precise reason for its popularity. This is mainly due to the chemical process that takes place under high temperatures, known as the Maillard reaction. (occurs at a temperature exceeding 155 C).
- For many, this is one of the most convenient methods of cooking delicious food (ever wondered why the men do the grilling most times?). Grill and Barbeque are major family events that are enjoyed across cultures.
Disadvantages of a Griller
- A study has found that cooking under high temperatures can lead to Carcinogenic effects. However, marinating the foods before they are thrown onto the grill can minimize or even eliminate the effects.
- The risks are high (perhaps this is the reason the men do the grilling most times!). Fire outbreaks are a major issue.
- It is, after all, open-fire cooking. So there is no ‘overheat’ protection or safety of any kind.
Comparison Between Sandwich Maker and Griller
What is the difference between sandwich maker and griller? Let’s tabulate for a better understanding:
SANDWICH MAKER | GRILLER |
Is easy to travel with, portable | Not exactly easy to move about with |
Includes overheat protection feature | Is open fire cooking option |
Cooks sandwiches in less time | Takes its own time to heat, attain temperature, and cook |
Is a safe cooking option | Not exactly safe, as fire hazard is a reality |
Is relatively cheaper in comparison | Is an expensive option |
Does not requires much space, easy to store | Needs large space for operation and cooking |
Can be used indoors | Is used outdoors, with ample ventilation |
Is easy to clean and maintain | Is a task to clean and maintain |
Sandwich Maker Vs Griller: The Modern Kitchen Helper
With urban living on a high rise, our spaces are decreasing rapidly. This calls for the need and use of smart appliances. As for the kitchen tools, they have grown hi-tech too. Now, the modern-day housewife is no longer a ‘poor little thing, who toils all day long. She has grown into a smart person who has tools, tech, and techniques to help her chores. A Sandwich maker is one such device that has found a permanent residence at most homes. And why not? After all, we all love hot, juicy sandwiches with our tea. Also, it is not feasible to go downtown every time we need to grab a bite. So a sandwich maker makes for a perfect partner when you need snacks, tea, and breakfast ideas. However, the difference between sandwich maker and griller is plenty.
A griller, on the other hand, is more of a family event. This calls for a union over food and fun where you camp’ by the fire. The grill allows people to get in touch with their primitive side when open fire cooking was the only option. Not to forget that the food is simply delicious. However, the grill is heavy and needs to be ‘lugged’ around. Its maintenance is yet another aspect that requires ‘indulgence.’ But, both the appliances are popular, and their relevant existence is proof of just that. We would never dream of completely writing off one of the other, as both are fun and functional at the same time.
Sandwich Maker Vs Griller: The Conclusion
The comparison between sandwich makers and griller is not a tough one. Choosing one over the other is simply a matter of convenience and function:
Beyond Sandwiches: A sandwich maker can be used for ‘small-time’ grilling as well. If you need to cook up some sandwiches or do some basic heating of leftovers, the sandwich maker is your guy. For the singles living in the city, a sandwich maker is a ‘divine gift.’ When you are out of options, you simply need to get your favourite stuffing options and ‘seal the deal’ in between bread. Your very delicious meal is ready in about ’15 minutes’.
Fun, Family, and Food: Grill is a celebration. There is something simply soothing about the aroma of open fire crackling nearby. To top-up, the fun cooking of meat, veggies are a ‘slow-fashion as it develops its flavour is almost ‘therapeutic.’ An evening with family and friends, with your favourite platter of delicacies, and a good drink for a company is what the ‘grill’ is all about.
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