This review dives into the experience of using a new cast iron takoyaki grill plate, focusing on the process from unboxing to cooking delicious takoyaki. The author details the initial impressions, highlighting the impressive build quality and substantial weight of the grill. However, the review also addresses a significant challenge: removing a peculiar factory paint job that required considerable effort and various tools to rectify. This preparation stage sets the stage for the true test – cooking takoyaki.The subsequent seasoning process, though time-consuming due to the grill's unique shape, is meticulously described. Finally, the author shares the results of their culinary experiment, emphasizing the exceptional performance of the grill in creating perfectly cooked takoyaki. The review concludes with a broader perspective on the grill's versatility, suggesting its suitability for other dishes beyond takoyaki, and a strong overall recommendation.
Pros And Cons
- Suitable for outdoor cooking.
- Can be used for various dishes beyond takoyaki (e.g., ajiyaki).
- Heavy.
- Difficult to season due to shape.
- Paint removal required before first use.
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Unboxing and First Impressions
Upon receiving my new cast iron takoyaki grill plate, I was immediately struck by its substantial weight and impressive build quality. The heavy cast iron construction promised even heat distribution and durability, essential for achieving perfectly cooked takoyaki. The initial appearance was promising, although the slightly odd paint job needed attention.
Removing the Paint
The first task was removing the unusual paint. It proved more challenging than expected, requiring a combination of a metal brush and sandpaper. It's a time-consuming process, but crucial for proper seasoning and preventing any paint residue from contaminating food. The various tools I employed, from a rough metal brush to a finer wire brush and finally sandpaper, were instrumental in this process.
Seasoning the Grill Plate
Seasoning the cast iron was a multi-step process. The goal was to create a non-stick, well-seasoned surface that would prevent food from sticking and promote even cooking. The process took approximately three hours, longer than anticipated due to the grill's unique shape. The even coating achieved was well worth the effort.
Cooking Takoyaki and Other Dishes
The true test was cooking takoyaki. The grill plate performed exceptionally well, creating perfectly round and golden-brown takoyaki. Beyond takoyaki, this versatile grill is ideal for other dishes like a Spanish tapas dish called 'ahi Joe', featuring seafood and sausages. You can also create small pancakes with various fillings.
Final Verdict
This cast iron takoyaki grill plate is a fantastic addition to any outdoor cooking setup. While the initial seasoning process was time-consuming, the results were outstanding. The even heat distribution, durability, and versatility make it well worth the investment. It's a must-have for takoyaki enthusiasts and anyone looking to add a unique and flavorful element to their outdoor cooking repertoire. I highly recommend it.
