MBM Salamander Toaster SAE561 for Professional Kitchens

A salamander toaster applies intense radiant heat from above, browning, melting or finishing dishes without turning them. The upper heating element glows red, sending infrared energy downward onto the food below. This direct exposure crisps toppings, caramelises cheese or glazes sauces in seconds, while the food itself stays moist inside. Because the heat comes from one direction only, the operator can control the effect by moving the food closer or further from the element, or by shielding part of the surface with a tray or foil.

The MBM SAE561 electric salamander toaster has a movable upper plate that slides up and down on vertical guides. The operator lowers the plate until the element hovers just above the food, then starts the timer. For delicate items, the plate can be raised to soften the heat; for large trays, it can be lifted high enough to clear the entire worktop. A selector switch allows only half the element to be energised, so a single appliance can finish two different dishes at once without overheating the unused side. The heating elements tilt forward on a hinge, exposing the space beneath for cleaning, and the stainless steel drip tray slides out for emptying.

To use the salamander, the operator places the food on the chromium-plated steel grid. The grid has heat-resistant handles and a safety stop that prevents it being pulled out too far. The upper plate is then lowered to the desired height, the half-surface switch set if needed, and the power turned on. The aluminium insulated handle stays cool to the touch, so the operator can adjust the plate without risk of burns. Once the food is finished, the power is switched off, the drip tray emptied, and the grid and tray washed in the sink.

The appliance is built entirely of stainless steel, with Incoloy armoured heating elements that resist corrosion and last longer under high heat. The drip tray and grid are removable, and the heating elements tilt forward for access to the area beneath. Thermal insulation around the body keeps the outer surfaces cooler, reducing the risk of accidental burns. Special brackets, available on request, allow the unit to be mounted on the wall, freeing up worktop space.

The 4.0 kW power rating means the salamander draws a substantial current, so it must be connected to a dedicated circuit capable of handling the load. The dual-voltage design allows it to run on either a 230 V single-phase supply or a 400 V three-phase supply, making it adaptable to most professional kitchen installations. The 51 kg weight requires two people to lift and position the unit safely, and the 600 mm width fits standard worktop depths while leaving room for other equipment.

Cleaning involves wiping the stainless steel surfaces with a damp cloth, emptying and washing the drip tray, and brushing crumbs from the heating elements. The tilting mechanism allows the elements to be lifted for thorough cleaning underneath. The chromium-plated grid and drip tray are dishwasher-safe, and the heat-resistant handles prevent damage during washing.

The SAE561 is a single model with no variants, but wall-mounting brackets can be ordered separately if needed. It is classified as a counter-top or wall-mounted salamander toaster in professional catering catalogues.