Plancha Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Model

More sociable and convenient than a traditional barbecue, the plancha has revolutionised outdoor cooking. Say goodbye to the chore of managing embers and the endless scrubbing of grates! With a plancha, cooking outside becomes a breeze: it's simpler, healthier, and just as delicious. Whether you have a large garden, a terrace, or a simple balcony, there's a plancha out there for you.

But with the sheer number of models on the market, it can be tough to choose. This guide is here to shed light on the essential selection criteria and present our pick of the best planchas available right now.

The Essential Criteria for Choosing Your Plancha

Before you dive in, let's review the features that truly make a difference. Here are three key points not to be overlooked.

1. Electric or Gas: Which Power Source to Choose?

This is the first dilemma. Your choice will mainly depend on where you'll be using it and your cooking habits.

• An electric plancha is the perfect solution for an apartment balcony or terrace, where gas appliances are often regulated. It ensures a controlled heat-up and precise temperature management thanks to its thermostat. Easy to plug in and use, it's a practical option for meals for up to 6 to 8 guests.
• A gas plancha shines with its power and rapid heating. Powered by a butane or propane tank, it quickly reaches a high temperature, ideal for perfectly searing meats and cooking for a large number of guests. It reigns supreme in the garden.

2. The Griddle Plate Material: Enamelled Cast Iron, Aluminium, or Stainless Steel?

This is the heart of the appliance! The cooking surface material directly impacts heat distribution, searing quality, and ease of maintenance.

• The enamelled cast iron plancha stands out for its exceptional thermal inertia. It retains heat and distributes it evenly, guaranteeing perfectly uniform cooking. The enamel protects the cast iron from rust and creates a non-stick surface that greatly simplifies cleaning. Brands like Le Marquier are renowned for the quality of their enamelled cast iron plates.
• Aluminium with a non-stick coating, being lighter, heats up very quickly. It promotes healthy cooking with little to no fat. It's an easy-to-maintain material, but it is more susceptible to scratches.
• Stainless steel is the pros' choice for its durability, impeccable hygiene, and corrosion resistance. However, it requires a bit more finesse, as food can stick if the plate isn't hot enough and well-oiled.

3. Tabletop or on a Trolley: A Matter of Space and Mobility

Your future plancha should fit into your space and your cooking style.

• Compact tabletop models can be placed on a stable table or work surface. They are perfect for small spaces and are easy to store after use.
• A plancha on a trolley transforms your terrace into a true mobile outdoor kitchen. The trolley provides a stable work surface at the ideal height, side shelves for dishes and utensils, and storage for the gas tank or accessories. It's the all-in-one solution, ideal for those who have the space and are looking for maximum convenience.

Recommended Planchas to Consider

To help you make your choice, we have scrutinised several models based on their performance, design, and user feedback.

Lagrange Equilibre Electric Plancha: Versatility and Design, Indoors and Out

What sets it apart With its varnished wood handles and French craftsmanship, this model exudes elegance. Its non-stick aluminium plate and 2,000?W of power make it a high-performing and easy-to-use appliance, equally at home indoors or outdoors.

Pros

• Generous cooking surface of 43 x 28 cm.
• Adjustable thermostat for precise temperature control.
• Non-stick plate for healthy cooking and easy cleaning.
• Removable, dishwasher-safe stainless steel drip tray.
• Designed and assembled in France.

Who is it for? Perfect for city dwellers with a balcony or for those looking for a simple and elegant secondary plancha for sociable meals with up to 6 people.

Le Marquier ORA 260 Gas Plancha: Gas Power and French Expertise

What sets it apart The ORA 260 is a pure concentration of Maison Le Marquier's expertise. Certified Origine France Garantie (Guaranteed French Origin), it's a mark of quality and traceability. Its tilting enamelled cast iron plate and two stainless steel trumpet burners ensure a lightning-fast heat-up and perfectly even cooking.

Pros

• Enamelled cast iron plate (64 x 46 cm) for remarkable thermal inertia.
• Mechanical piezo ignition and ergonomic control knobs.
• Integrated stainless steel grease collector.
• Robust epoxy-painted steel frame.
• Compatible with butane or propane gas.

Who is it for? For outdoor cooking purists who demand the power of gas and the durability of a high-end, French-made plancha. Ideal for gardens and large terraces.

Le Marquier ORIGINAL Electric 260 Plancha on a Trolley: The All-in-One Outdoor Kitchen

What sets it apart Much more than a simple plancha, this model is a true outdoor kitchen on wheels. This plancha on a trolley combines the quality of an enamelled cast iron plate with the simplicity of electric power. Its ultra-complete features (lid, shelves, storage) make it a premium, turnkey solution.

Pros

• Enamelled cast iron plate (60 x 40 cm) with a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
• 3.5?kW of power with two adjustable heating zones from 50 to 250°C.
• Complete trolley with lid, 2 large shelves, spice rack, and bottle holder.
• IPX4 certification guaranteeing resistance to water splashes.
• Origine France Garantie (Guaranteed French Origin) label.

Who is it for? For those lucky enough to have a large outdoor space and who want a complete, high-performance electric cooking station built to last. Perfect for hosting 6 to 10 guests without compromise.

Not Convinced? Other Options Are Available

Our selection is, of course, just a glimpse into the world of planchas. Every cook has different expectations regarding size, design, or power source. If these models don't tick all your boxes, don't worry.

To discover a wider range, feel free to browse our complete collection of luxury outdoor barbecues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do you clean an enamelled cast iron plancha?

It's very simple. Immediately after cooking, deglaze the still-hot plate by pouring a little water or white vinegar on it. Scrape off the residue with a stainless steel spatula (never use an object that scratches!). Once the plate is warm, a wipe with a damp sponge and a dry cloth is all it takes. Above all, never use an abrasive sponge, as you will damage the enamel.

Is an electric plancha powerful enough to sear meat?

Yes, without a doubt! Provided you choose a model with at least 2,000?W and let it preheat for about ten minutes. A quality electric plancha, like the Le Marquier ORIGINAL model with its 3.5?kW, sears meat, fish, and vegetables to perfection.

Can you use a plancha on an apartment balcony?

The electric plancha is the ideal solution and is most often permitted on balconies, as it produces no flames or excessive smoke. Conversely, the use of a gas plancha is very often prohibited by building regulations for obvious safety reasons. A piece of advice: always check your building's regulations before buying.