{"id":1336903,"date":"2020-01-02T17:32:39","date_gmt":"2020-01-02T23:32:39","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/origin-www.tasteofhome.com\/?p=1336903"},"modified":"2024-04-19T07:25:15","modified_gmt":"2024-04-19T12:25:15","slug":"how-to-make-paninis-without-a-panini-press","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tasteofhome.com\/article\/how-to-make-paninis-without-a-panini-press\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Make Paninis Without a Panini Press"},"content":{"rendered":"We\u2019ve all been there; you\u2019re craving an ooey-gooey panini, but there\u2019s a problem. You don\u2019t have a panini press! Luckily, you don\u2019t have to crowd your countertop with another appliance for a cafe-worthy panini. Our Test Kitchen has a secret for a press-free panini.\r\n\r\nBy the way, this is how to make the best mozzarella, tomato and basil panini<\/a> you\u2019ve ever had.\r\n

Step 1: Pull Out Your Cast-Iron Skillets<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nThe secret for a crispy panini is to use two hot cast iron skillets to toast the sandwich. To start, preheat two cast-iron skillets over medium-high heat. If you can, use one skillet that is slightly smaller than the other so they can be stacked.\r\n\r\nNeed a new cast iron skillet? Here\u2019s how to pick out the best one for you<\/a>.\r\n

Step 2: Assemble the Panini<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nWhile your skillets are heating up, put your panini together. You can use whatever meat, cheese and veggies you\u2019d like, but we\u2019d suggest using a heartier bread, like ciabatta, French bread or thick-sliced sourdough. If you need some inspiration, these are some of our favorite panini recipes<\/a>.\r\n

Step 3: Cook the Panini<\/strong><\/h3>\r\n\"paninni\r\n\r\nAdd some oil to one of the skillets (the larger of the two, if possible) and use a paper towel to oil the bottom of the other cast-iron skillet. It will be very hot, so be careful! Put your sandwich in the skillet and then place the second skillet on top of the sandwich, pushing it down a bit.\r\n\r\nThen, place a heat-safe weight, like a filled tea kettle or saucepan, on top of the second skillet to apply pressure. Let the sandwich cook for about 4 minutes, or until it\u2019s golden brown and toasty.\r\n\r\nMake sure you\u2019re not making one of these common cast-iron skillet mistakes<\/a>.\r\n

Step 4: Eat!<\/strong><\/h3>\r\nWhen the panini is done, carefully remove the weight and cast iron skillet and remove the sandwich from heat. Transfer it to a plate, slice in half and enjoy your melty panini.\r\n\r\nOnce you\u2019re done, clean your cast-iron skillet the right way<\/a>.\r\n\r\n\t\t\t
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