Electric Hot Plates

An electric hot plate is perfect for barbecues, and picnics:

Hot plates keep items warm

Items kept warm on hot plates have a decreased chance of causing food-borne illnesses

Some hot plates can actually be used as another cooking surface

Barbecue and temperature tips

1. The best temperature for barbecuing is 210 to 225 degrees.

2. Lower temperature = slower cooked meats that may be more tender.

3. All meat, before placed on hot plates, needs to be:

Piping hot

Any juices running hot and clear

4. Well-cooked means cooked all the way through to the center before its next stop on hot plates.

5. Turn regularly to help ensure thoroughness and evenness on all sides.

6. Precook conventionally before placing on the grill to offer added insurance of doneness.

7. Be sure and defrost raw meat, as well, for even cooking.

8. Always use fresh plates for cooked items: Don't use same plates used for the raw item.

9. Keep utensils used for raw items and cooked items separate.

10. Thicker meat may require a longer time.

11. When marinating, keep refrigerated. Never reuse.

12. Regularly clean all utensils and surfaces.

13. Follow instructions that may come with food item.

14. Light barbecue well in advance for proper temperature.

Some basic temperatures, measured with an internal thermometer, to be considered before placing meat on hot plates:

Sausage: 170 degrees

Chicken: 160-170 degrees

Burgers: 160-170 degrees

Steak: 140-170 degrees

Next stop … hot

No more cold burgers on hot plates

Once assured that meat is thoroughly and evenly cooked, then it is safe to set items from the barbecue in a dish on a hot plate for serving.

The main construction of a hot plate is:

• Heating element
  

a. Solid or coil

b. 1 or more

c. Warming trays for keeping items warm or burners for cooking

(Note: Thicker elements last longer than thinner ones)

Surface surrounding the element

a. Ceramic

b. Stainless steel

Control

a. Electronic touch

b. Knobs

Electric hot plates need to keep meat off the barbecue at 140 degrees or more to prevent any problems. Isn't hot food better anyway?

More information on hotplates