Not sure which Japanese hot plate is the one for you?
Do not worry!
Here you can check out the reviews of different cooking models available on the market. Whether you are looking for a large or smaller size, an electric or a gas model, here you can learn about their technical specifications to enjoy Japanese style food even at home.
IN THIS ARTICLE:
The Rundown
★★★★★
Whether you want to steam or grill food, this hot plate with a triple non-stick layer and a lid that prevents oil splatter.
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★★★★☆
This type of hot plate with an extended power cord is portable and can be used to cook various meat and vegetable dishes at once.
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★★★★☆
For grilling food and preparing a hot pot dish at once, this model has a wave pattern for grease drainage.
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What Is a Japanese Hot Plate?
It is the metal plate or flat iron griddle on which you cook, grill, or steam food. Modern models also come with a cover. What is specific about this hot plate model is the fact it presents the cooking of a lot of food at the same time.
What Is The Main Difference Between This And Other Models?
This unit is designed for direct preparation of food. That means that you don’t need bowls and pans, you just place the food directly on a it and you’re good to go. Classic hot plates are actually additional burners that require cookware for food prep.
Teppanyaki Is Actually a Second Name For It, Right?
Yes. Teppanyaki or hibachi is a style of Japanese cuisine that uses an iron griddle to cook food. That word is derived from teppan, the metal plate on which food is cooked, and yaki, which means grilled, boiled, or pan-fried.
What Types Are There?
They are divided into different types based on the way they are powered. You can choose between 2 models – electric hot plate and gas model.
What Should I Know About Electric Options?
As you can use them anywhere with access to a power outlet, they are usually the most convenient for indoor use. They come with power cords of different lengths which also dictates which surfaces they can be used on. They come in different sizes and designs.
What Is So Special About Gas Plates?
Unlike electric models, gas ones are usually run by propane and butane gas. They are ideal to use as outodoor hot plates so you can take them with you when camping and spending time outdoors. You can even use such a model for tailgating parties as they don’t require plugging in to work. However, have in mind that you’ll need to buy gas fuel from time to time.
Is An Electric Better Than Gas-powered?
Even though electric models can be used both indoor and outdoor, they take much longer for heating up, as well as cooling down. Besides, electric burnes cannot be used if your electricity goes out. With all that in mind, a gas-powered models are often more preferred than electric ones, but only for outdoors.
So, You Are Looking For Japanese Heating Plate? Here’s What You Should Know:
Here are a few important questions you should ask yourself if you are looking for this appliance. They are connected to its power, material, temperature range and size. With those questions in mind, you won’t have any trouble in finding out the model for you.
Why Is The Material Important?
To ensure durability. If you want to choose a model that will last you for a long time, go with a heavy-duty materials with non-stick coatings. Some of the best materials are stainless steel and cast iron. By picking models made of these materials, you will have a strong and long-lasting model, as well as be able to maintain it clean.
Are These Cooking Plates Powerful?
They surely are. Most models come with a wattage power range between 1,200 watts and 2,200 watts. This is a high power range which allows you to cook and fry different types of food.
Adjustable Temperature Settings Equal More Cooking Pptions
Speaking of different cooking options, the higher the temperature range, the more cooking options you have. The most important thing is that you choose a model with adjustable temperature settings.
What Is a Temperature Range Of an Electric Model?
As Japanese appliances are powerful and suitable for a wide range of cooking methods, electric models come with a great temperature range from 150 to 400 Fahrenheit degrees.
What About Gas-powered Ones?
They are powerful too and their temperature range is similar. You can choose a model with a temperature range up to 400 Fahrenheit degrees.
What Is The Usual Size Of a Heating Surface?
This varies from one model to the other and it can go from 14 inches to 22 inches in length, and from 9 inches up in width. The size is important since it defines the number of food you can cook at the same time.
What Can I Prepare On It?
What is great about a Japanese burner is that it is suitable for grilling and preparing various food – from meat and fish to vegatables. In the end, it all depends on the model you have, but here are a couple of food sugestions.
A Simple Grill
Marinade the ribs, cut the vegetables and mushrooms, and place all on your hot plate. Grilling time is basically the same as if you were preparing a classic grill or you were using a frying pan in your kitchen.
Chicken Or Seafood
You’re a fan of chicken? Or maybe seafood? No problems, this appliance is great for grilling chicken, preparing seafood, using tofu, and other ingredients. Follow the classic marinade recipe, add seasonings, and simply grill.
Steaming Vegetables
You can easily steam vegetables if you have a model that comes with a suitable lid. You simply season the chopped vegetables, add a bit of water, cover everything, and steam until the vegetables are crispy enough for your preferences. Simple as that!
Risotto And Wok
Speaking of a model with a suitable lid, such a model is suitable for preparing rice and pasta too. You can easily prepare risotto with seafood or meat, or perhaps that always popular wok with rice or noodles. Simply grill the meat or fish, add a bit of water and rice, and cook for up to 20 minutes until the rice or pasta is done.
Best 6 Japanese Hot Plates
Zojirushi EA-BDC10TD Electric Griddle
SPECIFICATION:
Dimensions: 15.38 x 19.38 x 5.63 inches
Weight: 9 lbs
Controls Type: Adjustable
Power: 1,350 W
Triple Non-Stick Layer
A non-sticking surface for cooking measures 14.125 inches in length and 13.125 inches in width. To ensure the food doesn’t stick to the surface features a triple layer of titanium and ceramic non-stick coating. The cooking surface has a diamond pattern that protects that coating and also prevents food from sticking to the surface.
Low & High-Temperature Options
This model needs to be plugged into a power outlet to be able to work. It comes with a temperature dial that lets you adjust the heat between 176 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use it to keep food warm at lower temperatures, or for cooking and grilling at higher temperature options.
Includes A Lid
The large hot plate comes with a lid that is great for steaming and faster cooking, while also preventing the oil from splattering around the kitchen or other area where you might use this unit. There is a body-guard that prevents scalding injuries and damage. Both the plate and the body can be immersed in water for cleaning.
Extended Power Cord
Along with this product, you can also buy an extra Takoyaki plate to make up to 26 large takoyaki balls at once. This model comes with a 6.6-foot long power cord that lets you conveniently cook food at the table. With this unit, you can enjoy your favorite Japanese style food at home.
Safety:
Size:
Funcionality:
PRICE RANGE
from $120 to $200 depending on eCommerce offer (Amazon, Walmart, ebay) and discounts
REASONS TO BUY:
- Non-sticking cooking surface
- Temperature range 176-400°F
- Protective body for the plate to prevent injuries
REASONS TO AVOID:
- No oil drain, complicated cleaning
Lotus Analin Teppanyaki Table
SPECIFICATION:
Dimensions: 42 x 11 x 6 inches
Weight: 7.54 lbs
Controls Type: 5 Levels
Power: 2,000 W
Large Cooking Surface
This 2,000-Watt unit has a cooking surface that measures 35 inches in width and 9 inches in length. You can place it on any tabletop and countertop to prepare food and grill it the Japanese way. It comes with a power cord that is 35 inches long for convenience. The grill surface is 0.09 inches thick.
Five Temperature Levels
As it comes in such a large size, you can use it to prepare a variety of meats, fish, and vegetables at the same time. After plugging it in, you can regulate the temperature by turning the thermostat knob. You can choose between 5 heat settings for cooking different foods.
Portable With Handles
The handles on the sides are ideal for easy portability and slight adjustments to location even whilst cooking food. As it comes in black color, it can fit into any kind of kitchen style. You can even use it outside the kitchen in other spaces, for example when camping, as long as you have access to a power outlet.
Included Accessories
Along with the purchase, you will also get a wooden spatula and two molds for various cooking needs. You can flip food with the spatula without doing any damage to the surface. No matter where you are, you can enjoy Japanese food with this model.
Safety:
Size:
Funcionality:
PRICE RANGE
from $140 to $200 depending on eCommerce offer (Amazon, Walmart, eBay) and discounts
REASONS TO BUY:
- Wide cooking surface for preparing multiple meals
- Handles for easier transportation despite its size
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Low temperature control
SEAAN Electric Teppanyaki Hot Pot
SPECIFICATION:
Dimensions: 28 x 3.1 x 10 inches
Weight: 10.08 lbs
Controls Type: 5 Levels
Power: 2,200 W
Comes With A Hot Pot
With the capacity to cook anywhere from two to twelve people, this hot plate can be used in any indoor space to grill food and make Japanese shabu-shabu in the included hot pot. It lets you cook a variety of fish, meat, and vegetables. The hot pot comes with a divider so that you can cook two tastes at once.
Double Temperature Dials
The commercial hot plate and the hot pot come with separate temperature dials for convenient individual adjustments. Each dial lets you choose between 5 temperature options for cooking. The unit comes in a cast aluminum body and features a non-stick coating for delicious food and ease of maintenance.
Drains Excess Grease
The waste tray located under it is connected by a drain channel so that excess grease and oil is drained from the food. The cooking surface has a wave pattern that also helps with grease drainage. This way it is also easier to keep the whole unit clean.
For Indoor Use
The hot pot can cook food for up to eight people and has a 7-centimeter depth. It is ideal to use for family and friends gatherings in any indoor space. Grill food and prepare a hot pot so that everyone can enjoy their favorite food while spending time together.
Safety:
Size:
Funcionality:
PRICE RANGE
from $120 to $140 depending on eCommerce offer (Amazon) and discounts
REASONS TO BUY:
- 2-in-1 cooking on hot plate and hot pot
- Integrated drain for oil and grease
- Heats up quickly
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Difficult to clean due to 2-in-1 design
Presto 07061 22-inch Electric Griddle
SPECIFICATION:
Dimensions: 11.5 x 26.25 x 2.5 inches
Weight: 6.5 lbs
Controls Type: Adjustable
Power: 1,500 W
Durable & Stick-Free
This safe hot plate features an electric griddle with a non-stick coating and removable handles. The included dial control allows adjustments to the temperature settings so that you can choose the right setting depending on the food you want to cook. The base is constructed from heavy-cast aluminum for durability.
Compact For Storage
The 231 square inch cooking area is big enough to prepare food for the whole family. After the handles are removed, the unit is easy to store into a kitchen cupboard or any other storage area without taking up too much space. They can be removed without the use of tools for easier cleaning, as well.
Waste Tray Collects Grease
When you remove the temperature dial, you can immerse the griddle into the water for easier cleaning after cooking. The drip tray that collects excess oils is also easy to slide out to help you with maintenance. Since you can cook free of food sticking to the surface, this also makes the unit easier to keep clean.
Large Cooking Surface
The 1,500-Watt hot plate is ideal for use in the house so that you can enjoy your meats, vegetables, and fish dishes any time you want. You won’t have to go to restaurants all the time to be able to eat Japanese style food. The 22-inch cooking surface is enough to feed the whole family.
Safety:
Size:
Funcionality:
PRICE RANGE
from $50 to $70 depending on eCommerce offer (Amazon, Walmart, Wayfair) and discounts
REASONS TO BUY:
- One side can get hotter than the other dring cooking
REASONS TO AVOID:
- No oil drain, complicated cleaning
BRUNO BOE-21 Compact Hot Plate
SPECIFICATION:
Dimensions: 14.76 x 9.25 x 5.51 inches
Weight: 5.07 lbs
Controls Type: 4 Levels
Power: 1,200 W
Includes A Takoyaki Plate
This type of Japanese hotplate is available in white, navy, pink, and red color. It includes a lid, the appliance, a wooden spatula, and a Takoyaki plate. Its overall measures are 37.5 centimeters in width, 14 centimeters in height, and 23.5 centimeters in length. It weighs around 2.2 kilograms.
Durable Construction
It is made of steel, phenol resin, and aluminum die-cast for durability and has a 1,200-Watt power supply. The 180-centimeter long durable power cord is convenient which in turn lets you cook at a distance away from the power outlets. That way you can even make food Japanese style at a dining table.
Front-Facing Temp Selector
The body features a lever that lets you regulate the temperature from warm, low, and medium to high settings. Likewise, the side handles help you easily transport and store this unit when it is not in use. If you are a fan of Takoyaki balls with octopus, tempura, ginger, and onion, you can make them by using the Takoyaki plate.
Wooden Spatula
You can even keep food warm after it is cooked by choosing the warm option on the temperature selector. The included wooden spatula is convenient to use not to cause damage cooking surface.
Safety:
Size:
Funcionality:
PRICE RANGE
from $330 to $340 depending on eCommerce offer (Amazon, Walmart) and discounts
REASONS TO BUY:
- 2-in-1 design with flat plate and Takoyaki plate
- 6ft / 180cm long power cord for reaching outlets
- Keep the food warm on it
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Temperature design is not precise
Blackstone 1650 Tabletop Grill
SPECIFICATION:
Dimensions: 17.5 x 18 x 8.5 inches
Weight: 21 lbs
Controls Type: Levels Knob
Power: 12,000 BTU
Requires A 1-Pound Propane Tank
This gas hot plate is suitable to use on any outdoor tabletop and countertop surface and features a 17-inch griddle for cooking. By connecting it to a 1-pound propane tank, it will let you cook food on different temperature settings. The electric ignition and the control knob let you start the burner easily for cooking in any outdoor space.
H-Style Burner
The 260 square inches cooking area is enough to prepare food for several people at once. The griddle measures 17 inches in width and 15.25 inches in length. The H-style burner is convenient and helps to heat the whole cooking surface for more even heat distribution. It comes with a grease tray that is easily removable and makes cleanup a breeze.
Portable Design
The 17-inch is compact enough so that you don’t have problems bringing it with you when you are camping, barbecuing in nature, or enjoying your time with family and friends in the backyard. The stainless steel burner and the durable griddle make cooking fun and are also easy to keep clean and compact for storage.
For Outdoor Use
Whether you are camping, attending a tailgating party with your friends, or want to cook in places without electricity, this unit lets you do that as long as you have a supply of 1-pound propane tanks. It cleans up quickly and easily so that you can spend more time doing the things you enjoy and less worrying about maintenance.
Safety:
Size:
Funcionality:
PRICE RANGE
from $250 to $300 depending on eCommerce offer (Amazon) and discounts
REASONS TO BUY:
- Doesn’t need electricity
- Great temperature control
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Sensitive to winds, no wind guards
Is It Safe To Use a Hot plate Designed For Japanese Cooking?
Of course it is! You just need to respect all the caution measurements. Since these appliances require food placed directly on their heating surface, make sure to use a glove and specific cooking accessories such as spatulas and long forks. Also, just because an appliance is safe, it doesn’t mean it should be left unattended.
There are a couple of features that guarantee safety.
Handles
This feature provides not only safety but it also ensures that your appliance is easy to carry, move, and store.
Automatic shut-off
When the temperature is high, the appliance automatically cuts off the power to cool down until it reaches a safe value and reheats again.
Wind protection
If you’re planning on using the model outside, it should have a wind protection so your food and cooking function are safe and sound.
Stable Base
Non-slip feet or well-designed bottom are a must so the cooking plate is well-secured and stable well use.
Maintaing And Cleaning Is As Easy As Possible
As with any other model, this appliance needs regular maintaing and cleaning too. However, it doesn’t require much time nor effort to keep it spotless for a long period of time.
How To Know When Your Teppanyaki Needs Cleaning?
When your food sticks to griddle or is cooking unevenly, if the flavor transfer between foods or the grease buildup on the griddle surface and flakes of burnt oil end up in the food, your unit is ready for cleaning.
What Tools Can I Use For Cleaning?
The best tools for cleaning are classic griddle scraper, scrubbin stone, and a sponge.
What Tools Are Forbidden For Cleaning?
A spatula or something with a sharp edge to scrape off food from the grill surface may damage the unit. Besides that, a steel wool, pumice, and abrasives are forbidden for this cleaning action too.
How To Clean a Japanese Cooking Plate?
You should scrape off the excess food and grease with a grill srcaper, and then use a damp cloth. Wipe the cooking surface with a mixture of soap. To rinse and remove the soap, use a clean dry cloth.
Why Is Cleaning Important?
Since the griddle is often exposed to high temperatures, the residue from fats, juices, meals, and other food debris get stuck to the surface. If you do not clean this grease and grime, they can accumulate and turn into a gummy layer full of bacteria which then will carbonized after constant exposure to temperatures above 570 Fahrenheit degrees. Once the grease is carbonized, it is extremely difficult to remove, it will act as a heat dampener and make food taste funny.
To Wrap It Up
To conclude this in-depth article, we would like to recommend the model that we think is the best. The Zojirushi electric plate features a triple non-stick layer and a lid for quicker cooking, steaming, and preventing the oil splash. It lets you adjust the temperature between 176 and 400 Fahrenheit degrees for versatile cooking. Apart from Japanese cuisine, hot plates can be used for Korean cooking style. You can try that by using Korean hot plates. For cooking any type of food on a griddle, check out my selection of the best griddle hot plates.
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