A grill pan, typically made from cast iron or a non-stick material, features raised ridges that create perfect grill marks on food while allowing excess fat to drain away. When paired with a press, which is a heavy, flat tool that evenly distributes weight over the food, the benefits multiply. One of the primary advantages of using a grill pan with press is the ability to achieve that coveted, crispy exterior on meats and vegetables. Applying pressure during the cooking process allows for better contact with the pan’s surface, promoting even cooking and enhancing flavor development through the Maillard reaction—a chemical reaction that occurs when proteins and sugars in food are exposed to heat.
