CHEFMAN RJ02-180-4RP Panini Press Grill User Guide

CHEFMAN RJ02-180-4RP Panini Press Grill

Product Information

Product Usage Instructions

1. Read all instructions in the user manual before using the product.
2. Ensure that the appliance is placed on a stable and heat-resistant surface.
3. Do not touch hot surfaces of the appliance. Always use handles or knobs to operate it.
4. Do not immerse the cord, plugs, or unit body in water or any other liquid to protect against electrical shock.
5. Keep the appliance away from children and supervise its use when in operation.
6. Unplug the appliance from the outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow it to cool down before handling or cleaning.
7. Do not use the appliance if the cord or plug is damaged. Contact customer service for assistance.
8. Use the appliance indoors only and avoid using it outdoors.
9. Avoid letting the cord hang over the edge of a table or touch hot surfaces.
10. Do not place the appliance on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
11. Exercise extreme caution when moving the appliance containing hot oil or other hot liquids.
12. Always attach the plug to the appliance first, then plug the cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn any control to OFF and remove the plug from the wall outlet.
13. Do not use the appliance for purposes other than its intended use.
14. Ensure that the polarized plug is inserted into a polarized outlet correctly. If it does not fit, reverse the plug or seek assistance from a qualified electrician. Do not modify the plug.
15. If using a longer detachable power-supply extension cord, ensure its electrical rating is at least as great as the appliance’s rating. Arrange the cord to prevent entanglement or tripping hazards.
16. Never pull or yank on the cord or the appliance. Grasp the plug firmly to insert or disconnect it from the outlet.
17. Avoid tightly wrapping the cord around the appliance to prevent stress and potential damage.

COOKING FORWARD™
Welcome!

• Whether this is your first Chefman® appliance or you’re already part of our family, we’re happy to be in the kitchen with you. With your new 5-in-1 Panini Press Grill, you can enjoy endless cooking options with its 5-in-1 versatility—reversible cooking plates and an adjustable handle transform it into a grill press, griddle press, full grill, full griddle, and half grill/half griddle. Its floating hinge allows the panini grill to close on and evenly cook foods of any size, thick or thin. It also opens 180° to create one large cooking surface so you can cook for friends and family. Plus, its nonstick plates make cleanup a breeze, and its sleek, compact design makes it a great addition to any countertop.
• We know you’re excited to get cooking, but please take a few minutes to carefully read our directions, safety instructions, and warranty information.
• From our kitchen to yours,
• The Chefman® Team

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE
For your safety and continued enjoyment of this product, always read the instruction manual before using.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including:

1. Read all instructions.
2. Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
3. To protect against electrical shock do not immerse cord, plugs, or unit body in water or other liquid.
4. Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
5. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts, and before cleaning the appliance.
6. Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner. Contact Chefman® Customer Support for examination, repair, or adjustment.
7. The use of accessory attachments not recommended by Chefman® may cause injuries.
8. Do not use outdoors.
9. Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
10. Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
11. Extreme caution must be used when moving an appliance containing hot oil or other hot liquids.
12. Always attach plug to appliance first, then plug cord in the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn any control to OFF, then remove plug from wall outlet.
13. Do not use appliance for other than intended use.

FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). To reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug is intended to fit into a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician. Do not attempt to modify the plug in any way. This could result in injury or electric shock.

SHORT CORD INSTRUCTIONS
A short power-supply cord is provided to reduce the hazards of entanglement or tripping over a longer cord. Longer detachable power-supply cords or extension cords are available and may be used if care is exercised in their use. If a longer detachable power-supply extension cord is used:

1. The marked electrical rating of the cord set or extension cord should be at least as great as the electrical rating of the appliance.
2. The cord should be arranged so that it will not drape over the countertop or tabletop where it can be pulled on by children or tripped over.

Do not place the appliance on a stovetop or any other heatable surface, even if stovetop is not on. Doing so is a fire hazard.

POWER CORD SAFETY TIPS

1. Never pull or yank on the cord or the appliance.
2. To insert the plug, grasp it firmly and guide it into the outlet.
3. To disconnect the appliance, grasp the plug and remove it from the outlet.
4. Never use the product if the power cord shows signs of abrasion or excessive wear. Contact Chefman® Customer Support for additional guidance and support.
5. Never wrap the cord tightly around the appliance, as this could place undue stress on the cord where it enters the appliance and cause it to fray and break.

DO NOT OPERATE THE APPLIANCE IF THE POWER CORD SHOWS ANY DAMAGE OR IF THE APPLIANCE WORKS INTERMITTENTLY OR STOPS WORKING ENTIRELY.
CAUTION: To ensure continued protection against the risk of electric shock, connect
to properly grounded outlets only.

IMPORTANT: During the first few minutes of initial use, you may notice smoke and/ or a slight odor. This is normal and should quickly disappear. It will not recur after the appliance has been used a few more times. This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.

FEATURES

1. Cool-Touch Handle
2. Adjustable Lid
3. Hinge Release Lever
4. Floating Hinge
5. Drip Spouts
6. Plate Eject Buttons
7. Reversible Double-Sided Cooking Plates (ridged grill side, smooth griddle side)
8. Removable Drip Tray (on side)
9. Panini Grill Base
10. Control Panel
11. Power Cord Storage (on back)
12. Scraping Tool

Control Panel

1. POWER Button —Press to turn the unit on/off
2. SEAR Light —Illuminates when the unit is set to its highest temperature (450°F)
3. Temperature Display —Shows the selected temperature (175°F–450°F); adjusts in 25°F increments
4. Timer Display— Operates as a countdown timer (maximum of 1 hour); adjusts the time in 30- second increments
5. PREHEAT Light —Illuminates when the unit is preheating; turns off when the unit is ready to cook
6. Preheating Progress Bars —Show the progress of preheating (preheating is complete when all 6 bars are lit)
7. Select and Confirm Knob —Turn to select desired temperature and time; press to confirm your selections

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

BEFORE FIRST USE

1. Read and remove all packing materials and stickers from the inside and outside of the panini grill except for the rating label, which should remain on the unit. Be sure that all accessories are accounted for before throwing away any packaging.
2. Gently wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any packaging residue. Dry completely. CAUTION: Never immerse the panini grill, cord, or plug in water or any other liquid; do not use scouring pads or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish.
3. Hand wash the cooking plates, drip tray, and scraping tool with mild liquid soap and a damp cloth or sponge. Dry completely. Alternatively, they can be washed in a dishwasher.
4. Place the unit on a flat, heat-resistant surface positioned at least 2 inches away from the wall or any other objects.
5. Ensure that the drip tray is inserted into its position on the side of the base. Do not operate the unit without the drip tray in place.

HOW TO INSERT THE COOKING PLATES
The cooking plates are removable, reversible, and interchangeable, so each plate can be inserted on either side of the unit. To insert the plates:

1. Orient the unit with its control panel facing you. Open the unit 180° to its flat position by sliding the hinge release lever forward with your right hand and simultaneously pulling the handle up and back with your left hand until it rests flat on the counter. (If adjusting the unit from its opened position, pull the handle slightly forward before sliding the lever so it adjusts more easily.)
2. Working with one cooking plate at a time, hold the plate horizontally with the drip spout and two cutouts facing away from you. Line up the cutouts with the two metal brackets on the back edge of the base. Slide the cutouts underneath the brackets and gently push the front of the plate down until it snaps into place on the base.
3. Turn the unit around and insert the second plate onto the lid side as you did the first.

HOW TO REMOVE THE COOKING PLATES
Make sure the panini grill is completely cooled and opened 180° to its flat position. (Slide the hinge release lever forward while pulling the handle up and back.)

1. Orient the unit with its control panel facing you. Press the plate eject button on the side of the base to release the first cooking plate. The plate will pop up slightly from the base.
2.  Grasp the plate with two hands, slide it out from underneath the metal brackets, and lift it off the base.
3. Remove the second cooking plate just as you did the first.

HOW TO COOK WITH CLOSED PLATES

• The unit can be used as a grill press or griddle press to cook food between the top and bottom cooking plates simultaneously, resulting in faster, more even cooking.
• This method is perfect for making panini, grilled cheeses, and other hot sandwiches, or for grilling smaller quantities of burgers, boneless and thin cut meats, and vegetables.

1. Prepare your food to be grilled.

2.  Check to ensure the drip tray is inserted in its position on the side of the base.

3. Insert the cooking plates as directed on p. 11. You can use the grill (ridged) sides, griddle (smooth) sides, or a combination of both. The sides of the cooking plates you use will ultimately depend on the type of food being made, as well as personal preference.

4.  To release the floating hinge, press the back edge of the top plate up and out. (It will click and release.) This allows the plates to make full contact with the food and cook evenly. Close the lid gently to ensure the hinge remains released and plug in the unit.

5. Press the POWER button. The unit will beep and the button will illuminate red.
   NOTE: When using the panini grill for the first time, a slight odor or smoking might occur. This is normal and will dissipate with use.

6. Use the default temperature (400°F) or adjust the temperature by turning the knob. Press the knob to confirm and the displayed temperature will go from blinking to solid.
   NOTE: To use the SEAR function, set the temperature to 450°F.

7. The word PREHEAT and the preheating progress bars will appear on the display as the unit begins heating. When all 6 bars are illuminated, after about 5½ to 6½ minutes, the unit will beep 3 times to indicate it is fully heated and the timer will blink on the display.

8. Open the lid until the handle comes to a resting, upright position. If desired, use a non-aerosol spray, or brush the plates with a small amount of cooking oil.
   NOTE: Never use aerosol nonstick spray on the cooking plates. It will cause buildup over time, which may cause sticking.

9. Place food on the center of the bottom cooking plate, being careful not to touch the hot plates. If cooking more than one food item, make sure they are of a similar thickness for even cooking.
   NOTE: The temperature may fluctuate during cooking as the unit maintains temperature. This is normal.

10.  Close the lid. Gently press the handle down to ensure the lid rests evenly on top of the food. Do NOT press the handle down too much, as this can crush foods or cause sandwich fillings to leak out.

11. Set the timer to count down from a maximum time of 1 hour by turning the knob clockwise (increase time) or counterclockwise (decrease time). Press the knob, and the timer will begin counting down.
    NOTE: If the timer is not set within 15 seconds after preheating ends, it will disappear from the display. You can continue to cook without the timer.

12. When the timer ends, the unit will beep three times and automatically turn off. If you’re not using the timer, you can cook for up to 60 minutes, at which point the unit will automatically turn off.

13. When cooking is finished, open the lid and carefully remove the food using a silicone or wooden spatula or tongs. (Do not use metal utensils, as they can scratch the nonstick surface.)

14.  If you’d like to cook additional batches, brush away any crumbs or food residue left on the plates first. If using the timer, follow steps 5-11 above to re-set the temperature, place food on the grill after preheating is complete, and re-set the timer.
    NOTE: The preheat time will be shorter on the second and subsequent batches because the unit is already hot.

15. When finished cooking, press the POWER button to turn the unit off if not using the timer. Unplug the unit and let it cool completely before cleaning and storing it in a cool, dry place.

HOW TO COOK WITH OPEN PLATES
The panini grill opens 180° to create one large, flat cooking surface that works just like a grill, griddle, or half grill/half griddle. It’s great when cooking larger quantities of the same food for a crowd, or when making different foods at once without mixing the flavors. You can also cook foods and meats of different thicknesses, each to your preferred level of doneness.

1. Set up your panini grill as directed in steps 1–7 on pages 12–13, but instead of closing the grill to preheat, open it 180° to its flat position by sliding the hinge release lever forward with your right hand and pulling the handle up and back with your left hand.

2. When the unit is heated, use a non-aerosol cooking spray, or brush the plates with a small amount of cooking oil if desired. NOTE: Never use aerosol spray on the cooking plates. It will cause buildup over time, which may cause sticking.

3. Place food on the cooking plates. Do NOT overcrowd the plates, as this will result in uneven cooking.

4. Set the timer to count down from a maximum time of 1 hour by turning the knob clockwise (increase time) or counterclockwise (decrease time). Press the knob, and the timer will begin counting down. NOTE: If the timer is not set within 15 seconds after preheating ends, it will disappear from the display. You can continue to cook without the timer.

5. Cook, flipping food when necessary. When the timer ends, the unit will beep 3 times and automatically turn off. If you’re not using the timer, you can cook for up to 60 minutes, at which point the unit will automatically turn off.

6. Remove the food from the cooking plates using a silicone or wooden spatula
   or tongs. (Do not use metal utensils, as they can scratch the nonstick surface.)

7. If you’d like to cook additional batches, brush away any crumbs or food residue left on the plates first. If using the timer, re-set the temperature, preheat the grill, place food, and re-set the timer as you did for the first batch. NOTE: The preheat time will be shorter on the second and subsequent batches because the unit is already hot.

8. When finished cooking, press the POWER button to turn the unit off if not using the timer. Unplug the unit and let it cool completely before cleaning and storing it in a cool, dry place.

COOKING TIPS

• Preheat the panini grill closed when cooking with closed plates and open when cooking with open plates. (Heat dissipates when preheating the unit open, so preheating will take 3–4 minutes longer.)

• The cooking positions and sides of the cooking plates you use will depend on the food being cooked, as well as personal preference. We recommend using the grill (ridged) sides of the plates for foods like sandwiches, chicken and meats, and vegetables; the griddle (smooth) sides of the plates for foods like pancakes, eggs, and bacon; or one of each side when cooking combinations of these foods at the same time. Finding your preferred method and combination may take some experimenting.

• When cooking with open plates, you will have to flip foods during cooking.

• To make crispier, more flavorful panini and hot sandwiches, brush the outside of your bread with oil or butter before grilling. Crispiness also depends on the fillings you use—fillings with a lot of moisture can result in a soggier sandwich. To avoid this, add breadcrumbs to moist fillings to absorb the excess liquid.

• If you enjoy greens like lettuce on your sandwiches but do not want them to wilt as you grill, simply add them at the end right before serving.

• For flatter panini, press the handle down gently several times while cooking.

• Do NOT overpress, as this can cause fillings to leak out.

• Experiment with a variety of breads and fillings. You can make sweet or savory sandwiches based on your choice of fillings, and you can use all types of bread, such as bagels, brioche, pita, and more. If using rounded breads like baguettes
  or bagels, try flipping them inside out so the flat surface of the bread contacts the grill.

• Do not overcrowd the cooking plates. Too much food, especially if tightly packed, can result in uneven cooking and inhibit browning. Cook food in batches instead.

• To achieve greater flavor and a browned, crispy crust on the surface of meats, engage the SEAR function at the beginning or end of cooking. This will help release juices from the meat and caramelize the surface.

• Boneless cuts of chicken and meat cook most evenly on the panini grill.

• Avoid cooking bone-in pieces of chicken, as they won’t cook evenly.

• When cooking meats, follow food-safety guidelines for doneness. Because temperatures and food sizes can vary, do not rely only on recipe timing when cooking food. Check foods for doneness against current safety guidelines before serving.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

With its nonstick cooking plates, removable drip tray, and included scraping tool, the panini grill is super easy to clean.

1. Turn off and unplug the unit when done. Let it cool completely before cleaning.
2. Use the scraping tool to remove any leftover food from the cooking plates or to push any excess grease from the plates into the drip tray, if necessary.
3. Carefully remove the drip tray and properly dispose of the grease. Wash the drip tray and scraping tool with soap and a damp cloth or sponge. Dry completely. The drip tray and scraping tool are dishwasher safe.
4. Remove the cooking plates as directed on p. 12. Wash with mild liquid soap and a damp cloth or sponge, and dry completely. The cooking plates are dishwasher safe.
5. Gently wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth or paper towel, if necessary. Dry completely. CAUTION: Never immerse the panini grill, cord, or plug in water or any other liquid; do not use scouring pads or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish.
6. Reassemble the unit before storing. Wrap the power cord around the square pegs on the back of the unit and store in a cool, dry place.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Limited Warranty

• RJ Brands, LLC d/b/a Chefman® offers a limited 1-year Warranty (the “Warranty”) available on sales through authorized distributors and retailers only. Please note that this Warranty becomes valid from the date of initial retail purchase and that the Warranty is non-transferable and applies only to the original purchaser.
• This Warranty is void without proof of purchase within the United States and Canada. Please be aware that this Warranty supersedes all other warranties and constitutes the entire agreement between the consumer and Chefman®. Any changes to the Terms and Conditions of this Warranty must be in writing, signed by a representative of Chefman®. No other party has the right or ability to alter or change the Terms and Conditions of this Warranty.
• We may ask you to please submit, via email, photos and/or video of the issue you are experiencing. This is to help us better assess the matter and possibly offer a quick fix. Photos and/or video may also be required to determine Warranty eligibility.
• We encourage you to register your product. Registering can make the Warranty process easier and can keep you informed of any updates or recalls on your product. To register, follow the directions on the Chefman® Warranty Registration page in the Chefman® User Guide. Please retain your proof of purchase even after registering.
• In the event that you do not have proof of your purchase date, we may declare your Warranty void or we may, at our sole discretion, apply the date of manufacture as the purchase date for purposes of this Warranty.

WHAT THE WARRANTY COVERS

Manufacturer Defects – Chefman® products are warranted against defects in material and workmanship, under normal household use, for a period of 1 year from the date of purchase when used in accordance with the directions listed in the Chefman® User Guide. If your product does not work as it should, please contact Customer Support at support@chefman.com so that we may assist you.

THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER

• Misuse – Damage that occurs from neglectful or improper use of products, including, but not limited to, damage that occurs as a result of usage with incompatible voltage, regardless of whether the product was used with a converter or adapter. See Safety Instructions in the Chefman® User Guide for information on proper use of product;
• Poor Maintenance – General lack of proper care. We encourage you to take care of your Chefman® products so that you may continue to enjoy them. Please see Cleaning and Maintenance directions in the Chefman® User Guide for information on proper maintenance;
• Commercial Use – Damage that occurs from commercial use;
• Normal Wear and Tear – Damage or degradation expected to occur due to normal use over time;
• Altered Products – Damage that occurs from alterations or modifications by any entity other than Chefman® such as the removal of the rating label affixed to the product;
• Catastrophic Events – Damage that occurs from fire, floods, or natural disasters; or
• Loss of Interest – Claims of loss of interest or enjoyment.

CHEFMAN® WARRANTY REGISTRATION

What do I need to register my product?

• Model: RJ25-C
• Conveyor toaster
• 120v~60hz 1800W
• CONFORMS TO UL STD. 1026
• CERTIFIED TO CSA STD.C22.2 No.64
• CAUTION: DO NOT IMMERSE IN WATER
• WARNING: TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, UNPLUG BEFORE CLEANING

Contact Information

• Model Number
• Proof of Purchase (online confirmation, receipt, gift receipt)
• Date Code
• Access Code
• MADE IN CHINA

NOTE: Label depicted here is an example.

How do I register my product?
All you need to do is fill out a simple Chefman® registration form. You can easily access the form in one of the two ways listed below:

1. Visit Chefman.com/register.
2. Scan the QR code to access site:

• For product information, visit Chefman.com.
• EXCEPT WHERE SUCH LIABILITY IS REQUIRED BY LAW, THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER, AND CHEFMAN® SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGE TO, OR LOSS OF USE OF THE PRODUCT, OR LOST SALES OR PROFITS OR DELAY OR FAILURE TO PERFORM THIS WARRANTY OBLIGATION. THE REMEDIES PROVIDED HEREIN ARE THE EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES UNDER THIS WARRANTY, WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT OR OTHERWISE.
• Chefman® is a registered trademark of RJ Brands, LLC.
• Cooking Forward™ is a trademark of RJ Brands, LLC.

www.chetman.com
@CHEFMAN 2023

Documents / Resources

| CHEFMAN RJ02-180-4RP Panini Press Grill [pdf] User Guide
RJ02-180-4RP Panini Press Grill, RJ02-180-4RP, Panini Press Grill, Press Grill, Grill
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References

• Kettles, Air Fryers, Toaster Ovens, Cookware & More - Chefman
• Product Registration – Chefman

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