A griddle, what is it?
A griddle is a direct contact cooking device, originally from Spain, which allows you to quickly cook all kinds of food, from salty to sweet. Consisting of a frame and a plate, the plancha is a device that represents an entire art of living.
Where can I use it?
In practice, there are no restrictions on where a griddle can be used, whether in Canada or Quebec. You can use it:
- Indoors
- Or outdoors
The only condition is that your griddle must be approved for both uses. If your appliance is not certified, you are at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
If you want to use a gas appliance indoors, make sure you use it in a room with adequate ventilation or one that you can easily ventilate.
Please note that it is strictly forbidden to store or connect propane cylinders indoors.
What materials a griddle is made of?
Materials use for the chassis
| Material | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Stainless |
Extremely corrosion and rust resistant Strong, durable, sleek finish Easy to maintain and long-lasting |
Heavier than aluminum Higher cost |
| Galvanized steel with powder-coated finish |
Excellent weather and corrosion resistance Protective, aesthetic powder finish Good durability-to-price ratio |
Heavier structure Powder coat may chip over time |
| Aluminum |
Lightweight, easy to handle Resists corrosion naturally |
Less rigid Can deform under stress Less durable long term |
| Chrome steel |
Shiny and resistant finish Good mechanical durability Professional look |
Plus sensible aux rayures Moins résistant à la corrosion que l’inox |
Materials for the plate
| Material | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Enameled cast iron |
No rust Excellent heat retention; easy maintenance Premium look |
Heavy material |
| Carbon Steel |
Excellent heat conduction and retention Very durable Develops a natural nonstick patina |
Requires regular maintenance Susceptible to corrosion |
| Cast Iron |
Exceptional heat retention Ideal for searing and slow cooking Very robust |
Heavy Slow to heat can rust if not maintained; difficult to clean Food may stick |
| Polished Steel Plate |
Smooth, uniform surface Good conductivity Easy to clean |
Risk of corrosion Requires regular oiling |
| Cold Rolled Steel |
Heats quickly and evenly Great value for money |
Prone to rust Needs frequent maintenance |
| Chrome Finish Plate |
Mirror-like nonstick surface Hygienic and aesthetic Easy to clean |
High cost Can scratch Avoid thermal shocks |
For its griddles, ENO has chosen to use 100% outdoor materials, designed to withstand Canada's harsh weather conditions. From 304L stainless steel for the frame of our stainless steel range to enameled cast iron for our griddles plates, discover all the materials used in the manufacture of our appliances in our article right here.
What type of energy can be used for a griddle?
This question is particularly important for gas griddles. The type of gas that can be used for your griddle will depend on its certification. You can use:
- Propane: the gas most commonly used in Canada for this type of cooking appliance.
- Natural gas: provided your appliance is connected to a city gas line.
What is the difference between a griddle and a BBQ? A frying pan?
Here is a summary table of the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of these different cooking appliances:
| Appliance | Main difference | Function(s) | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Griddle |
A flat plate made of steel or cast iron (often with a low rim to hold juices) heated from below Some models have multiple independent heating zones |
Cooking multiple foods by contact (pancakes, eggs, burgers, vegetables, fajitas) |
Large, spacious surface for cooking several dishes at once Fast, even, powerful heat Possible distinct heat zones Versatile cooking options Low rim retains juices Low‑smoke cooking thanks to a grease tray Easy cleaning Healthy cooking without added fat |
No smoky flavor or grill marks like a BBQ Not suitable for braising or deep sauces Plates can be heavy Cleaning method depends on the plate’s material |
| BBQ /Grill | Raised grates with an open flame | Searing and smoking meats and vegetables |
Grill marks and smoky flavor Leaner cooking thanks to dripping fats |
Less suitable for delicate foods More tedious to clean Bulky and often fixed in place Produces potentially harmful smoke; direct contact with flames can create carcinogens |
| Skillet (pan) | A round pan with sloped sides |
Sauté Frying and making sauces |
Versatile Good heat retention Oven-safe |
Limited cooking surface Less convenient for flipping food No grilled flavor. |
Find out more in our comprehensive guide comparing griddles and BBQs.
How to use your griddle for the first time ?
Using a plancha for the first time is extremely easy. The big advantage of the griddle is that the temperature can be adjusted very precisely using the control knobs.
The most important thing is to let the plate preheat before each use! Allow about 10 minutes for your plate to heat up properly.
If you don't preheat your griddle, you run the risk of not searing your food properly, not caramelizing it, not preserving its flavors, and therefore ruining your griddle cooking.
Find our practical guide to using your gas griddle by clicking here ! From connecting it to cooking, you'll find all our practical advice on how to use your plancha properly.
