Rose's September Shop Watch: Le Creuset Grill Pan
Le Creuset Grill Pan
Le Creuset, Knives and Tools
What?
Le Creuset Cast Iron 26cm Signature Square Grillit
Why?
Keep grilling
I shall always remember the summer of 2020 as a barbecue summer (as well as other things!). Not because the weather has been unusually glorious (except those scorching days early in August) but because a barbecue creates an event and we have needed events. Since eating at home is the new normal – or I like to think as the new abnormal – I have been firing up my Weber whenever I can. There is a magical transformation of food when cooked over coals – the caramelised crusty, slightly charred exterior made evident by the criss-cross patterns. And the anticipation is heightened by the cooking aroma wafting through the air. But it will soon be time to put the Weber away and I want to hang on to that flavour. Which is why I am suggesting you invest in a Le Creuset Grill Pan to take you through the winter. It is made of cast iron which reaches a high even heat on a medium setting of any hob type (and can even be put in the oven or on a barbecue), meaning the food is sealed quickly and the moisture and flavour locked in. Its ribbed cooking surface drains away excess fat so it is a healthy way to cook too – just pour the fat off via the two spouts on either side.
The black enamel interior has been designed to protect the pan, is easy to clean, and develops a natural patina over time. The square design is a vast improvement over the old oval shape as you can fit far more in. It also has strong easy-grip handles which give stability, making it easy to lift. And it comes in a number of colours to match your kitchen or your mood. I have gone for Marseilles Blue - wishing I was there! The advantage of this pan over the barbecue is that the even heat removes the risk of any flare-ups – so no more burnt sausages. And the ribbed surface produces the sear lines making me feel I have cooked over charcoal.
So, I shall continue to enjoy dry-aged sirloin steak crusty on the outside and rare in the middle; a perfect grilled veal chop; a criss-cross patterned burger, lamb cutlets rubbed with harissa; a delicate apricot glazed chicken drumstick; simple sizzling sausages (who doesn’t like a sausage?). And a platter of grilled Mediterranean vegetables: peppers, aubergines, courgettes drizzled with a garlic and balsamic dressing; or marinated halloumi kebabs or some grilled sweetcorn.
My message is simple – keep grilling.
Conclusion:
All the flavour of a barbecue
Product Details:
Le Creuset Cast Iron 26cm Signature Square Grillit
Various colours (and lifetime guarantee)
Contact:
lecreuset.co.uk
£125 (includes free set of 2 handle grips in black)
knivesandtools.co.uk
£109
Availability and price as of 1st September 2020