Living that small apartment life? Or maybe you’re a dorm dweller like I once was? Then you know the struggle for kitchen space is REAL. That’s why I was so excited to try out the Brentwood Appliances TS-306 Electric Single Burner. The promise? A portable, easy-to-clean cooking surface – perfect for whipping up quick meals without turning my entire kitchen into a sauna. Did it deliver? Well, mostly!
First Impressions:
Right off the bat, the TS-306 scores major points for being compact. Seriously, this thing is tiny! It won’t hog precious counter space, and it’s light enough to toss in a bag for, say, a potluck (though I haven’t gone that portable yet). The simple black design? It’s not exactly stylish, but it blends in just fine.
Putting it to the Test:
So, what’s it like to actually cook on? I’ve mostly used it for the basics: boiling water for my endless cups of tea, making a quick ramen fix, and the occasional veggie sauté. It heats up pretty fast, which is a lifesaver when hunger strikes. And the adjustable thermostat? Definitely a plus for dialing in the right temperature.
Now, here’s where things get a little… interesting. I noticed the heat isn’t perfectly even. Picture this: you’re trying to sauté some peppers, and one side is sizzling while the other is just… contemplating life. I had to keep things moving to get everything cooked evenly. The manufacturer claims it can hit 600º F, but honestly, I’m not sure I’d ever need that much heat!
A Few Annoyances (But Nothing Major):
Okay, let’s be real: the temperature control can be a bit wonky. It’s almost too sensitive, and finding that perfect simmer point can be a challenge. I even tried a trick I saw in another review – preheating it on high for a minute and then turning it down. It helped a little, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Cleanup is a Breeze:
The best part? Cleaning this thing is a cinch! Spills wipe right up, and I haven’t had any issues with food sticking. That’s a huge win in my book.
The Final Scoop:
All in all, the Brentwood TS-306 Electric Single Burner is a solid choice if you need a small, portable cooking solution. It’s great for those quick and easy meals and heats up in a jiffy. Just be prepared to deal with a little uneven heating and a slightly temperamental thermostat. If you’re on a budget and need a burner for occasional use, give it a shot. Just don’t expect it to replace your main stove – it’s more of a helpful sidekick!