What is a Salamander Grill?
A Salamander Grill, commonly known as just a Salamander, is essentially a high temperature overhead grill which is usually used for toasting, browning or even simply hot holding dishes at a set temperature.
Available in gas or electric versions, a salamander grill is a common sight in the professional kitchen, as it can fulfil many different roles using relatively little space. Due to the design, salamander grills are usually mounted directly on a wall or shelf, so that the cooking is done at eye level – ideal for monitoring the cooking process.
Why Use a Salamander Grill?
Although salamander grills can be quite small in comparison to large free standing appliances, they have five main benefits.
- Fast heat up: many can be ready very quickly in comparison to full-size ovens
- Fast access: the open design means dishes can be loaded very quickly
- Space efficient: as these are mounted fairly high up, you can make better use of all the available room in your kitchen
- Safer: the overhead heat has the advantage of allowing foods to be grilled without the risk of flare-ups caused by fat dripping onto elements or burners
- Flexible: salamander grills aren’t just great for cooking. They can re-heat and hold dishes, as well as gently melt cheese or brown off a topping
Types of Salamander Grill & Features
Gas or Electric: On the whole, power source is determined by the set-up in your kitchen. Still, gas powered grills tend to be better if you’re grilling constantly, whilst electric versions are more energy efficient. If you’re planning to use electric, make sure to check the power rating before purchase. Our Single Phase vs 3 Phase Power Guide should help.
Static or Adjustable: There’s two ways to change the distance between the grill and the food. Most salamanders use a simple notch mechanism, whereby the height of the pan shelf is raised or lowered manually. Some more advanced salamanders allow you to raise the entire top grill section. These are called rise and fall salamander grills. Generally, rise and fall versions allow for faster access and more precise cooking.
Plate Detection: If a salamander is on all the time, it can quickly waste energy and contribute to a hotter kitchen. Salamander grills with plate detection only turn on when a GN pan or plate is in position. Often, you can program these to cook or warm for a set amount of time too, making them ideal for producing consistent results every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a salamander and a grill?
There’s not a massive difference, however salamander grills usually force heat downwards onto the food, whereas standard grills and commercial barbecues let heat rise. Some models such as Buffalo Salamanders feature strong quartz elements at the top and the bottom for maximum flexibility.
What’s the difference between a salamander and a contact grill?
Contact grills have plates which cook both sides of the food simultaneously. However, food comes into direct contact with each plate, making them slightly more awkward to clean. The only part of a salamander which comes into contact with the food is the GN or removable shelf.
Where can I buy salamander grill spares or accessories?
There’s a huge range of genuine spares and accessories available right here. Check out our Spares and Accessories section.
What's the difference between salamander grills and panini grills?
The main difference between a salamander and a panini grill is that salamanders use radiant or infrared heat, whereas panini grills use direct contact heat similar to a griddle. More information about panini grills can be found on the contact grills explained page.