Okay, let’s be real – kitchen space is prime real estate, especially if you’re like me and have a penchant for collecting gadgets. That’s why I was so intrigued by the Broil King CDR-2CFBB Professional Double Space Saver Hot Plate. Could this compact appliance really deliver the power of a full-sized range without taking over my entire counter? I decided to find out.
First Look: Built Like a Tank (But Smaller!)
Right off the bat, the Broil King feels sturdy. The stainless steel gives it a serious, professional vibe. And the size? Perfect for squeezing into tight spots. Seriously, if you’re dealing with a tiny apartment kitchen, a cramped dorm room, or even just need an extra burner for outdoor cooking, this thing is a lifesaver. It’s not super light, but you can still easily lug it around – think “portable power,” not “immovable object.”
Putting It to the Test: From Coffee to Chili
Time to see what this little hot plate can do! I started with the basics: boiling water for my morning caffeine fix (a non-negotiable ritual, obviously). No problem there – the single 8-inch burner heated up lightning fast. Next up, I decided to tackle a batch of my famous chili (okay, maybe “famous” is a bit of an exaggeration… let’s just say it’s edible). Simmering was surprisingly easy, thanks to the Robertshaw thermostat, which gave me pretty decent control over the temperature.
Now, here’s where things got a little tricky. When I tried using both burners at once – sautéing onions and peppers on one side while the chili simmered on the other – I noticed the heat dropped a bit. It wasn’t a disaster, but it definitely made me rethink my strategy. If you’re planning a culinary masterpiece that requires high heat on multiple burners, this might not be your best bet. Think of it as a reliable sidekick, not a superhero.
Cleanup is a Breeze (Hallelujah!)
Let’s be honest, nobody enjoys scrubbing burnt-on food. Thankfully, the stainless steel housing on this Broil King hot plate is a dream to clean. A quick wipe, and you’re done. Seriously, this is a major selling point for anyone who values their time (and sanity).
The Good, the Not-So-Good, and the Verdict
What I Loved:
- Space-Saving Superstar: Perfect for small kitchens, dorms, camping – you name it.
- Tough as Nails: The stainless steel build feels super durable and cleans up like a champ.
- Speedy Heat-Up: That 1500-watt burner gets hot in a hurry.
- Temperature Tamer: The Robertshaw thermostat gives you decent control for simmering and other delicate tasks.
- Ready to Roll: Easy to move around for outdoor cooking or parties.
What Could Be Better:
- Heat Hog: Using both burners at once can lead to a noticeable drop in heat output.
- Style Statement? Not Really: It’s functional, but don’t expect it to win any design awards.
Final Thoughts:
The Broil King CDR-2CFBB is a solid choice if you need a powerful and portable double burner, especially if you’re tight on space. It’s fantastic for simple meals, keeping dishes warm, or even whipping up a quick camping feast. Just remember that the heat can dip when you’re using both burners, so plan accordingly.
My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a reliable workhorse, but that slight heat issue keeps it from perfection. Still, for the price and convenience, it’s a winner in my book.