©stock.adobe.com
Cooking on the grid
It’s time to rethink how to use a waffle iron
by CHRISTINA GUERRERO
You don’t need to be a waffle fanatic to own a waffle maker. Sure, this appliance makes traditional waffles crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside—but it can do the same thing for any number of foods. Here is some inspiration to make the waffle maker a kitchen staple.
For breakfast, try using the waffle maker to cook an omelette or even hash browns. If you’re craving something sweet, try making cinnamon rolls or wonuts (these are doughnuts that look like waffles, but have a cakey, dense doughnut-like texture). Drizzle these sweet treats with icing after the dough or batter has cooked and been removed from the waffle maker.
Craving a sandwich? Use your waffle maker for grilled cheese sandwiches, quesadillas or paninis. For dinner, try cooking cornbread, reheating leftover macaroni and cheese, or making mashed potatoes and stuffing. Consider heating precooked meats, such as breaded chicken strips, sausage or bacon, and pepperoni slices with mozzarella cheese, in waffle batter. Simply add a little batter to the preheated and prepared waffle maker, layer the meat and cover with more batter. Close the lid until the waffle maker indicates your food is done.
Vegetarian options can also be prepared in the waffle maker. Try grilled falafel, zucchini fritters, sliced apples or pineapple.
Don’t forget dessert. Try cooking cake or brownie batter or even cookie dough in your waffle maker. You could even sandwich s’mores between cooked waffles in the appliance or cook them layered in biscuit dough. Try these tasty recipes (right) for a yummy start.
Costco Connection: Waffle makers can be found in Costco warehouses and at Costco.ca. Groceries are available for delivery through Costco Grocery at Costco.ca
