Sunday 18 December 2011

A new toy

Jane and I have been meaning for ages (since September in fact) to buy ourselves a Wedding Anniversary present. These days we usually buy something for both of us rather than buying things for each other. Last week we finally got round to it - we bought a Le Creuset griddle plate. I think these things are also known as a "Plancha". Basically it is a huge (heavy) piece of cast iron. You place it on your hob - it's big enough to span at least two of the rings - and heat it up until it is very hot. Then you cook on it whatever you feel like griddling.

It has a ridged side, best for steaks:


And a plain side, best for things like eggs and bacon:


We have already used it a couple of times. It takes a bit of getting used to, since because it spans at least two rings of the hob it can get much hotter than our existing griddle-pan, and things do cook quicker. Here it is in action, cooking polenta, Halloumi cheese and tomatoes. Although we both like things "well done", I think maybe that the cheese is a tad too brown! It tasted OK though - quite "nutty". Next time I'll only put it on right at the last minute.


With the above we ate this yummy salad of beetroot and feta cheese with spring onions, toasted pine-nuts and a mint-and-chilli dressing.


A couple of arty photos to finish off with...

You want texture? You got it.


You want colour? You got it!

  

12 comments:

  1. Looks like a very nice anniversary/wedding gift to me. I have something like that only mine is electric. I like yours better, mine works great but it is huge and sits on top of the cupboards and is a pain to get down when you want to use it.

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  2. That looks like a good investment. The food looks good too.

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  3. Congratulations on your Anniversary lovely present.

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  4. Anything labelled 'Le Crueset'...is so heavy it needs a muscle man to handle it! Good thing your bride has you! Happy anniversary to you both.

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  5. That looks like a lot of fun. So nice to be able to grill inside during the cold months.

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  6. I have seen Nigel Slater using one of these - I only have a griddle pan, not quite as solid looking as yours but it does the job. Can I just take this opportunity to say how much I have enjoyed your posts over the past six months or so that I have been blogging - and look forward to next years adventures in the garden. Wishing you a happy 'foody' Christmas.

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  7. What a nice griddle and your food looks yummy! I also liked your arty photos! Happy Anniversary.

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  8. Happy Anniversary to both of u..sharing anniversary gift is such a great idea..love the idea & the griddle as well! :)

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  9. It's such a good idea to buy a combined present for your anniversary, something which you'll both get enjoyment from using.

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  10. We've just had our anniversary (Dec 17) and we're planning a joint present of a new TV - not quite as glamourous as your pressie but we're in desperate need!!! Your griddle looks great. Have you tried omelettes yet? lol x

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  11. Nice and sturdy, I'm sure it will give you a lifetime of use. There is nothing like well made cookware!

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  12. OOOOO I want one, I need one....well, when it gets too cold to BBQ I will anyway.

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