What foods can I cook on an electric grill griddle that would not be able to a traditional grill?

An electric grill griddle can be a great tool for cooking a variety of foods, but it does have some limitations compared to a traditional grill. Here are some foods that work well on an electric griddle, but might be trickier on a traditional grill:

Foods that benefit from even heat distribution:

* Pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast items: The even heat of an electric griddle ensures consistent cooking and prevents burning.

* Eggs: From sunny-side-up to omelets, an electric griddle provides a flat surface for even cooking and prevents sticking.

* Veggies: Griddling vegetables like zucchini, peppers, onions, and eggplant brings out their natural sweetness and creates beautiful grill marks.

* Sandwiches and burgers: Griddles are great for cooking flat sandwiches and burgers evenly.

* Fish: Griddles provide a non-stick surface that prevents delicate fish from sticking and breaking.

* Seafood: Griddling shellfish like scallops and shrimp is a great way to get a nice sear without overcooking.

* Steak (to an extent): While not ideal for getting a super-charred crust, griddles can still cook a good steak. You might need to use higher heat settings and sear on both sides quickly.

Foods that are tricky on a traditional grill, but easier on a griddle:

* Large quantities: An electric griddle provides a bigger cooking surface for preparing meals for a crowd.

* Cooking with sauces: Griddles are easier to clean up after cooking with sauces.

* Indoors: Electric griddles can be used indoors, making them ideal for apartment dwellers or when the weather is bad.

Foods that are best cooked on a traditional grill:

* Anything that requires high heat and a smoky flavor: Charred steaks, barbeque, roasts, and vegetables that benefit from smoky flavor are best cooked on a traditional grill.

* Larger cuts of meat: A traditional grill provides ample space for cooking large roasts or whole chickens.

Tips for Cooking on an Electric Grill Griddle:

* Preheat your griddle: Always preheat your griddle to the desired temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.

* Use cooking spray or oil: To prevent food from sticking, lightly oil your griddle before cooking.

* Adjust heat settings: Experiment with different heat settings to find the best temperature for each food.

* Don't overcrowd the griddle: Leave some space between food items for even cooking.

* Flip food items once: Flip food items once they are cooked through on one side to prevent overcooking.

Remember, while there are some limitations to an electric grill griddle, it's still a versatile tool for cooking a variety of delicious meals.