A Quick Review Of Waffle Makers
Waffles are a favorite treat in many countries around the world, either as snacks, desserts, or breakfast foods. The batter recipe may vary, such as whether it uses baking powder or yeast for leavening. The shape and size can also be quite different. Therefore, when shopping for waffle makers, the first thing one must determine is the type of waffle one desires to make.
Plate sized waffles with large squares are usually referred to as Belgian style waffles. True Belgian waffles use a yeast batter, but the term is normally used to refer to the physical characteristics of the waffle regardless of the batter. In addition to the larger squares, Belgian style waffles are normally thicker and crisper.
American style waffles are typically a thinner type, and the batter is usually made with baking powder. They can be shaped as rectangles, squares, or circles, and both the waffles and the squares are not as large as the Belgian variety.
Standard waffle makers are intended almost exclusively for the cooking of waffles, although some sandwiches can be prepared on them as well. A waffle sandwich is similar to a grilled variety, but the square marks will be embedded in the bread. Other styles feature grill plates that can be switched to make it possible to cook other foods. For example, a griddle plate may be used to make sandwiches, while a ribbed one expedites the preparation of meats. Additional waffle plates offer the cook the ability to make waffles shaped like cartoon characters or other objects.
Storage and operating space available need to be considered when shopping for a waffle maker. Some styles, such as those that flip the waffles, have more height than others. Naturally, the larger irons will also need more room to use or store.
Most cooks prefer a non-stick finish on the interior. This allows the food to be released more easily and makes clean up easier. A drip pan to catch the overflow of batter and an audible timer are also handy features to have. If you purchase a multiple purpose unit, such as one that can also grill meat, an adjustable heat setting is desirable. A light that lets you know when the proper temperature has been reached is another feature many cooks like.
Waffles can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with fruit and whipped cream, although butter and syrup are the most common choices. Most waffle batters are basically a type of cake batter, so virtually anything that would go well with cake works with a waffle. Ice cream, chocolate syrup, and even frosting are sometimes used as toppings. Some people also use a less sweet batter and use waffle makers to turn out a type of bread to serve with soups, stews, and salads.
Ben runs a website dedicated to waffle recipes that also has lots of tips on buying waffle makers. You can also find many different waffle recipes for those of you that already own a waffle iron.
