Using a waffle iron can significantly change the flavor profile of traditional dishes by adding a unique textural element. The grooves and ridges on the waffle iron create crispy, golden pockets in the food, enhancing its overall taste experience. For example, when making a grilled cheese sandwich in a waffle iron, the cheese spills over and crisps into frico-like chips on the pan, resulting in a sandwich that is less melty and gooey but more crispy and crunchy. This alteration in texture adds an extra dimension to the dish's flavor profile, making it more interesting and enjoyable.