Elite Gourmet EPN-2976 2-in-1 Nonstick Panini Press
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
The Elite Brand takes consumer safety very seriously. Products are designed and manufactured with our valued consumers’ safety in mind. Additionally, we ask that you exercise a level of caution when using any electrical appliance by following all instructions and important safeguards
- Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
- To protect against the risk of electric shock, do not immerse or partially immerse the cord, plugs, or the entire unit in water or any other liquid.
- Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
- Unplug from the wall outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow it to cool before cleaning or storing this appliance.
- Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions, or has been damaged in any manner. Return the appliance to the nearest authorized service facility for examination, repair, or adjustment.
- The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may cause fire, electrical shock, or injury.
- Do not use outdoors. This is for household use only.
- Do not let the electrical cord hang over the edge of the table or
counter, or touch hot surfaces. - Do not place on or near a hot gas or an electric burner or in a heated oven.
- Extreme caution must be used when moving an appliance
containing hot food, hot water, hot oil, or other hot liquids. - To disconnect, remove the plug from the outlet.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or a lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning the use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
- Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
- Do not use the appliance for anything other than its intended use.
PARTS IDENTIFICATION
- Handle
- Lid
- Panini Plates
- Hinge-Release Button
- Adjustable Angle Feet
- Drip Tray
- Ready Indicator Light
- Power Indicator Light
BEFORE FIRST USE
- Remove all packing material and, if applicable, any stickers
from the product; remove and save literature. - Wash all removable parts and/or accessories as instructed
in CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE. - Select a dry, level location where the unit is to be used, leaving
enough space between the back of the unit and the wall to allow heat to flow without damage to cabinets and walls. - Slide the drip tray into the center slot at the bottom of the
appliance. - Close the lid.
- Unwind the cord and plug it into a standard electrical outlet. The power indicator light will turn on.
- Allow to preheat 3-5 minutes. When the temperature is reached, the ready light will turn on.
HOW TO USE
USING THE FLOATING HINGE POSITION: The floating hinge position is used for preparing Panini and other grilled sandwiches. It can also be used for grilling. In this position, the grilling plate rests on top of the food.
- Prepare your Panini as the appliance heats up.
- Using a pot holder, carefully open the lid.
- Before first use, if desired, lightly oil the plates.
- Carefully place foods to be cooked on the bottom plate. IMPORTANT: Do not overload the cooking plate.
- Close the lid with the lid closing directly onto the food.
- Allow food to cook for the desired time. IMPORTANT: Do not leave the appliance unattended.
- After the desired time, the food should be done. If you would prefer longer cooking, simply follow the steps beginning at Step 4.
- Using an oven mitt, carefully open the lid.
- Remove food using a nylon-coated spatula. IMPORTANT: Always use heatproof plastic, silicone, or wood utensils to avoid scratching the nonstick surface of the plates. NEVER use metal skewers, tongs, forks, or knives.
- Unplug to turn the appliance off. IMPORTANT: Panini plates continue to be on and hot until the appliance is unplugged.
- Allow the drip tray to cool completely before removing. Wash
and dry the drip tray after each use.
USING THE ADJUSTABLE ANGLE:
If you are using your Panini Maker as a grill, you can use the adjustable angle feet at the front of the grill to angle the cooking surface. This allows fat and grease to drain away from food while it cooks.
- To use the adjustable angle, simply press on the front of the feet on either side under the front of the grill.
- This will flip the feet over so the extended part of each is out and the cooking surface slopes toward the back. Make sure the feet are set firmly in the slope position before starting to grill.
USING THE OPEN COOKING SURFACE
- Raise the lid by the handle until it stops.
- Press the hinge release button on the bottom right side of the handles and lower the lid until the cooking surface is fully opened.
CLEANING & MAINTENANCE
This appliance contains no user-serviceable parts. Refer service
to qualified service personnel.
- Place the drip tray into the drip tray slot as directed. Use a plastic spatula to scrape off any excess fat and food particles left on the cooking plates; runoff will drip into the drip tray.
IMPORTANT: Do not use metallic scrubbing pads, steel wool, or any abrasive cleaners to clean any part of your grill; use
only nylon or non-metallic scrubbing pads. - Remove the drip tray, empty and wash in warm, soapy water
or the dishwasher (top-rack only); dry thoroughly with a paper towel or cloth. IMPORTANT: Do not immerse the body of the appliance in water or any other liquid.
FOR MORE MANUALS BY ELITE GOURMET, VISIT MANAULSLIBRARYY
Elite Gourmet EPN-2976 2-in-1 Nonstick Panini Press-FAQs
How do I use a panini press for the first time?
Before cooking, clean the plates with a damp cloth, dry completely, and lightly oil the surface. Preheat the press until it’s hot, then place your sandwich or food inside to cook.
Do I need to preheat the panini press?
Yes. Always preheat for a few minutes so the plates reach the right temperature. This ensures even grilling and prevents sticking.
How long does a panini press take to heat up?
Most presses heat up in about 5–7 minutes, depending on the model and temperature setting.
What temperature should I set my panini press to?
For sandwiches, medium to high heat (around 325°F–375°F) is ideal. For meats, use the higher range to ensure proper cooking.
Do I need to oil a panini press?
It’s recommended to brush a little oil or butter on the bread or the grill plates to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Should I butter the bread before pressing?
You don’t have to, but brushing melted butter or olive oil on the outside of the bread makes it crispier and golden.
What’s the secret to a good panini?
A great panini has a balance of moist sauce, melty cheese, a flavorful protein, and fresh extras. Layer “wet” ingredients like tomatoes between cheese or meat so the bread doesn’t get soggy.
How long should I leave a sandwich in the press?
On average, 3–6 minutes is enough. Thicker sandwiches may take longer—cook until the bread is crispy and the filling is heated through.
How do I keep a panini crispy?
Let cooked ingredients cool before assembling, avoid watery fillings, and brush the bread with oil or butter before grilling.