My Hamilton Beach Indoor Grill looked like such a simple item when honey brought it home. He bought it as a surprise for me when he saw me trying to make paninis in an iron skillet using a spatula as a press. I was happy not to have to stand over the stove pushing on my sandwich anymore, but I thought buying an appliance for one use was a waste of money.
Multi-Functional
As it turns out, I couldn't have been more wrong. This grill has turned out to be a multifunctional gem here in the frozen land of New England. Not only can I use it to cook a variety of healthy foods like vegetables and meat, I use it as a panini maker and a bacon press as well.
It also comes in handy in winter. Between this grill and my fabulous JennAir Downdraft Gas Stove with removable indoor grill plate, I can grill all year long. This means honey does his share of the cooking even in winter, grill-master that he is, which means I don't have to work so hard in the kitchen.
Practical Matters
The feature I like best about this grill is how easy it is to clean. It has a non stick surface that really works like it is supposed to, and slanted raised grill lines that direct the grease, excess oil and extra seasonings into the removable grease trap. The grease trap is easy to get to, easy to use and most importantly easy to clean, since it is dishwasher safe.
The grill plugs into the wall and has a red safety light to let you know when it is heating and when it is ready to cook on. The safety light also works well as a timer while you are getting food ready - just prep the food and put it in when the light goes off. Nothing is easier than this grill to use.
Other Likes
I love how well you can time your meals on this grill. When it says it takes 6 minutes to cook a medium rare steak that is an inch thick, it means it - 6 minutes and it is done! It came with a handy cooking chart, too, which helps you time everything from vegetables to meat, sandwiches and fish. Imagine, grilling fish that doesn't come apart over the coals - it's heaven.
I also like the outside of this grill. It doesn't get hot to the touch like some of my appliances do (see my toaster oven review for fire hazards I have brought home in the past), and it is really easy to clean. All I have to do is grab a Clorox Disposable disinfecting cloth and wipe the outside down. the interior cleans with a damp soapy sponge. Hey! Presto! Ready for the next use.
Recommendation
I would absolutely recommend this to a friend. It is a simple device with no complicated bells and whistles. It is easy to use, easy to clean and does exactly what it says it will do in the user manual. With a little imagination you can use this to cook a variety of foods in a healthy manner, and it will keep your grill master happy all year long, even in wild winter weather.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 30.00