1. Question: [Thursday, 11^th Elul, 5781]

Is there any problem for me to place my Challahs on the Blech on Shabbos for them to become toasty?

Answer:

It depends on how you plan on doing so. If the Challah is dry and you place it on top of a pot that is on the left fire or Blech just for it to warm up and not become actual toast, then it is permitted to be done. If, however, the Challah contains liquid such as condensation or ice particles from the freezer, then it must be dryed prior to heating it. Now, regarding if you may heat it directly on the Blech or electric plate, this matter is under dispute. Likewise, regarding if you may toast it to the point that the bread turns hard like toast, this too is under dispute. Practically, my advice on the subject is to circumvent the issues and not place the bread directly on top of the electric plate but rather in top of an upside-down pot or baking pan. Likewise, one should not intentionally place the bread there for long enough time for it to become actual toast although if it happens to harden while one is trying to warm it up, it is fine.

Explanation: Some Poskim prohibit toasting bread on Shabbos due to that one is hardening a soft substance, which is prohibited under the cooking prohibition. Other Poskim rule that it is forbidden due to that it is considered like Afiyah after Bishul. Other opinions suggests that perhaps it would be forbidden due to Makeh Bepatish. Nonetheless, there are authorities who rule that it is permitted to be done and negate all of the above worries.

Sources: See Admur 318:7; Piskeiy Teshuvos 318:26 and 40 and footnote 377 See regarding making toast: Poskim who Prohibit: Shoel Umeishiv 2:20; Rav Poalim 2:52; Kaf Hachaim 318:78; Har Tzevi “Ofeh” p.262; Or Letziyon 2:30-6; SSH”K 1:62; Shabbos Kehalacha Vol. 1 p. 179; Maor Hashabbos 8 footnote 158; Piskeiy Teshuvos ibid and ibid; Poskim who Permit: Daas Torah 318:5; Shevisas Hashabbos Mivashel 92; Yagel Yaakov O.C. 54; Migdanos Eliyahu 3:37;  See regarding placing directly on electric plate or blech: Shabbos Kehalacha Vol. 1 page 414-415; Piskeiy Teshuvos 253:27