The Teppanyaki Grill is a well-known grill used in Japanese cuisine. It’s a combination of two Japanese words: ‘teppan’ which means the large teppanyaki grill plate or hot plate you cook on, and ‘yaki’ which means grilled.
It became incredibly popular about 200 years after World War II when Americans began dining at restaurants that had them. The very first restaurant of this kind was called Benihana, and it opened up in New York back in 1964. In this guide, we’ll delve more into Teppanyaki grilling and what makes these grills unique from other types of grills.
What Exactly Is a Teppanyaki Grill?
A Teppanyaki grill is a large, flat iron griddle that heats up quickly. It’s used in Japanese cooking to grill, broil, or pan-fry food right in front of guests. Along with cooking, the chef preparing the meal will also often perform tricks, like flipping shrimp tails into their hats or tossing eggs and catching them on their spatulas.
The grill’s design allows diners to sit around it, so they can watch their meals being made from start to finish. The restaurants that have these grills are typically called Teppanyaki restaurants but in the West, they’re called Japanese steakhouses or just Japanese restaurants with open grills.
What Type of Food Is Prepared on a Teppanyaki Grill?
In terms of Japanese cuisine, you’ll find items like yakisoba (fried noodles), okonomiyaki (a kind of savory pancake), various types of seafood such as shrimp and scallops, vegetables including mushrooms and bean sprouts and meats such as thinly sliced beef or chicken. These are often seasoned with soy sauce, sake, and mirin.
In terms of Western-style food, the grill is used for cooking steak, chicken, and shrimp. Chefs also use it to prepare sides like fried rice and mixed vegetables. These dishes are usually seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes garlic butter.
Are Teppanyaki Grills Used for Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner?
Traditionally, Teppanyaki cooking isn’t typically associated with breakfast but since they’re versatile, there are no rules on how they can be used.
For breakfast, they’re perfect for making pancakes, eggs, bacon, and even omelets. When it comes to lunch, you can use the grill to make a variety of dishes, from grilled sandwiches and quesadillas to vegetable stir-fries and seafood. For dinner, these grills can handle everything from steaks and chicken to an assortment of vegetables and rice dishes.
How Do You Clean a Teppanyaki Grill?
After each use, the grill should be scraped clean of food particles while it’s still warm. Use a grill scraper for this purpose. Once the grill has cooled down, a damp cloth can be used to wipe the surface clean. For deeper cleaning, apply a mild detergent with a soft sponge to remove any leftover food residue. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads, as they can damage the surface of the grill. If the grill has a drip tray, make sure to drain the excess oil from it.
Can You Use a Teppanyaki Grill Indoors?
Yes, however, make sure the area is well-ventilated, or consider using a range hood to remove smoke. Also, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for indoor use to ensure safety.
What Are Some Tips for Cooking on a Teppanyaki Grill?
To start, preheat the grill to the right temperature before adding any food. This helps achieve a good sear and prevents sticking. Next, use high-quality oils with a high smoke point, such as canola or grapeseed oil for cooking. You can also use plain vegetable oil. Lastly, don’t overcrowd the grill; give each piece of food enough space to cook evenly.
Are Teppanyaki Grills Expensive?
The cost can vary depending on whether you’re looking at commercial or home-use models.
For home use, prices can start as low as $30 for basic models that can cook and serve food for up to 2 people. For high-end models that can cook food for more than 2 people, prices can be between $250 to over $500. These premium models come with advanced features such as larger cooking surfaces, adjustable temperature controls, and integrated ventilation systems.
On the other hand, for commercial use in restaurants, these grills are considerably more expensive due to their size, durability, and specialized features. Prices can start at around $2,000 and can reach up to $10,000 or more for custom-built or top-of-the-line models.
Is the Hibachi Grill the Same as the Teppanyaki Grill?
Even though some people use these names interchangeably, they’re actually different.
A Hibachi grill is smaller and traditionally uses charcoal or wood as its heat source. It’s designed for direct grilling, with an open grate design that lets the food cook over the flames. You’ll often see them used for grilling skewered meat and vegetables.
On the other hand, a Teppanyaki grill is a large, flat iron griddle that uses gas to heat up. It provides a broad, even cooking surface. This type of grill is known for cooking a variety of foods, from meats and seafood to vegetables and noodles, right in front of guests.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you love the idea of cooking outdoors and enjoy the smoky flavor that charcoal grilling provides, a Hibachi might be your best choice. It’s perfect for small gatherings where you’re grilling simple items like skewers of meat or vegetables. However, if you’re more into hosting larger gatherings and want to make cooking part of the entertainment, a Teppanyaki grill could be the way to go.
Summary
Teppanyaki grills offer an exciting way to cook and entertain guests with a wide variety of dishes, from Japanese cuisine to Western favorites. These grills are incredibly versatile and can be used for any meal, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. When using them indoors, make sure there’s proper ventilation.
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