If you are looking for a Teflon-free panini press, you have found the right place. We have for you two types of plates without Teflon to choose from. On top of that, we bring you tips on what to look for in a Teflon-free coating to avoid other harmful chemicals.
Teflon-Free Plates
To avoid Teflon in a panini press, you have to look for ceramic-coated or cast iron plates.
Panini Press with Ceramic Coating
The upside of ceramic coating is its excellent non-stick properties and the lack of toxic chemicals that are used in Teflon. On the other hand, a low-quality ceramic coating may contain lead and cadmium. Thus we recommend checking whether the manufacturer proves the coating is lead and cadmium-free.
We have found only two panini presses with ceramic coating, where the manufacturer explicitly states that the coating is lead and cadmium-free.
The best value for money is the Blue Diamon Sizzle Griddle (Amazon link). For under $50, you get grill, griddle, and waffle plates, which are dishwasher-safe. You also get two drip cups for easy cleanup. You can adjust the temperature to low, medium, high, or sear. Just be aware that this product has no on/off switch. As for size, it is 13.23″ deep, 10.2″ wide, 5.39″ high, and weighs 6.17 lb.
Panini Press with Cast Iron Plates
The most durable and sustainable panini press you can buy has cast iron plates. Unlike a ceramic coating, which loses its non-stick properties over time, cast iron can be regenerated by seasoning with oil, which is both inexpensive and non-toxic. The downside of cast iron plates is that they are used in commercial panini presses, which are expensive. Nevertheless, keep reading since we have found a budget solution too.
If you are looking for the best Teflon-free panini press and don’t mind the high price tag, then the Waring Commercial Compact Panini Grill (Amazon link) is a clear winner. It can cook paninis, sandwiches, burgers, chicken, or vegetables up to 3″ thick. It has an on/off switch, ready indicator light, and an adjustable thermostat to 570°F. Also, it is easy to clean thanks to the brushed stainless steel body and removable drip tray. When it comes to size, it is 15.5″ deep, 11.5″ wide, 9.25″ high, and the cooking surface is 9.75″ x 9.25″.
Still, there is a way to make paninis on cast iron for under $50. If you don’t mind a nonelectric option, take a look at the 10″x10″ reversible griddle grill pan with a grill press (Amazon link). Such a pan is versatile, non-toxic (comes pre-seasoned with 100% vegetable oil), and so durable that you can pass it to the next generations.
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