What is a Plancha Grill and How Does it Compare to a Barbecue? [2025]
For those exploring alternatives to traditional barbecuing, the plancha grill has become an increasingly common choice in both domestic and commercial outdoor kitchens. With a focus on efficiency and versatility, this flat cooking surface offers a different method of preparing food outdoors. This article outlines the features of a plancha and how it differs from standard barbecue equipment.
Understanding the Plancha
The term "plancha" originates from Spain, where it translates simply as "plate." The method is believed to have begun in the Basque region, commonly used for cooking at public festivals and markets. Food was prepared on a heated metal surface, originally over wood or charcoal, allowing for high-temperature searing without direct exposure to flames. Modern iterations, often powered by gas, retain the original concept while offering greater control and ease of use.
As the approach spread across Europe, it gained popularity among chefs and has more recently been adopted by home users seeking an alternative to open-flame cooking.
How Cooking on a Flat Surface Differs from a Grill
Unlike traditional barbecues that use open grates, plancha grills feature a solid cooking surface. This allows for more precise handling of various ingredients, including those that might otherwise slip through grill bars such as small vegetables, eggs, or fillets of fish.
The surface heats quickly and distributes temperature evenly, which reduces the likelihood of hotspots or uneven cooking. Without open flames, flare-ups are minimised, and there is less chance of burning caused by fat drippings igniting below.
Flat cooking surfaces can also accommodate multiple items at once, which may be useful when preparing food for several people. This method of cooking is commonly seen in professional settings, where consistency and speed are priorities.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Caring for a plancha typically involves less effort than maintaining a conventional barbecue. After cooking, the surface can usually be cleaned with a nylon scraper and a damp cloth. All of our planchas incorporate removable grease trays, which help manage residue and simplify the cleaning process.
Unlike many options available, all Dellonda planchas come with either an enamel or stainless steel cooking surface. Models with enamel or stainless steel finishes are generally less prone to corrosion and require minimal upkeep beyond regular cleaning.
Selecting the Right Model
When choosing a plancha grill, size and features will depend largely on intended use and available space. Compact models with two burners may suit smaller households or balconies, while larger options with three burners or four burners offer expanded cooking space for those who host regularly.
All Dellonda models include independently controlled zones, allowing for different temperatures across the surface. This can be useful when cooking a variety of items simultaneously without compromising on timing or texture.
Summary
The plancha offers a practical alternative to conventional barbecues, with a focus on clean cooking, consistent results, and ease of use. Its design and function make it suitable for a range of outdoor settings, whether for simple meals or larger gatherings.
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