The Blackstone 36 inch griddle has quickly become a beloved cooking appliance for outdoor enthusiasts, chefs, and households alike. Renowned for its versatile cooking capabilities, this griddle allows you to prepare everything from pancakes to stir-fried vegetables with ease. However, one of the most crucial aspects of maintaining your griddle’s performance and longevity lies in the seasoning process. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the importance of seasoning your Blackstone griddle, step-by-step instructions on how to do it, and tips to ensure you get the most out of your griddle for years to come.
Why Seasoning is Essential for Your Griddle
To understand why seasoning is crucial, it’s important to recognize what seasoning entails. Seasoning not only enhances the flavor of the food you cook but also creates a non-stick surface and protects the griddle from rust and corrosion. Here are a few reasons why you should never skip this vital process:
- Non-Stick Surface: Seasoning forms a protective layer that reduces food sticking.
- Prevents Rust: A well-seasoned griddle is shielded from moisture, reducing the risk of rust.
Seasoning also improves your overall cooking experience and prolongs the lifespan of your griddle, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone who enjoys outdoor cooking.
What You’ll Need to Season Your Blackstone Griddle
Before you dive into the seasoning process, gather the necessary materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Items
- Blackstone 36 inch griddle
- Cooking oil (preferably flaxseed, canola, or vegetable oil)
- Paper towels or a clean cloth
- Heat-resistant gloves
- Scraper or spatula
- High-temperature spray bottle (optional)
Having these items ready will facilitate a smoother and more efficient seasoning process.
Preparing Your Griddle for Seasoning
Before you begin seasoning, it’s essential to properly clean your griddle. First-time users may find that their griddle has some manufacturing residue or protective coating that needs to be addressed.
Step 1: Clean the Griddle
- Turn on the Griddle: Preheat your Blackstone griddle on high for around 15-20 minutes. This helps burn off any residual oils.
- Use the Scraper: Once it’s heated, use a scraper or spatula to remove any debris, grease, or residue. This step is crucial to create a clean surface for seasoning.
- Wipe It Down: After scraping, wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove any loose particles. Allow it to cool slightly.
Step 2: Dry Thoroughly
Moisture can cause significant issues, including rust, so always ensure your griddle is completely dry before continuing to the next step.
The Seasoning Process: Step-by-Step
Now that your griddle surface is clean and dry, it’s time to proceed with seasoning. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process.
Step 1: Apply a Thin Layer of Oil
- Choose Your Oil: Select a high-smoke-point oil. Flaxseed oil is often recommended due to its polymerization characteristics, but canola and vegetable oils work well too.
- Spread the Oil: Pour a small amount of oil onto the griddle surface. Using a paper towel or cloth, evenly spread the oil across the entire cooking surface, including the edges. Aim for a thin, even layer, as too much oil can result in a sticky build-up during seasoning.
Step 2: Heat the Griddle
- Turn on the Heat: Set your griddle to high heat. Allow the oil to heat until it starts to smoke. This will take about 10-15 minutes.
- Monitor the Process: Keep an eye on the griddle to ensure the oil doesn’t burn. You want it to smoke, but not to the point of becoming blackened or acrid.
Step 3: Repeat the Oil Application
- Cool Down: After the first heating cycle, allow the griddle to cool slightly.
- Reapply Oil: Once it cools, apply another thin layer of oil using the same method.
- Repeat the Heating: Turn the griddle back on to high heat and let it smoke again. Repeat this process 3 to 4 times for optimal seasoning.
Step 4: Final Cooling Cycle
Allow your griddle to cool down completely after the last heating cycle. This cooling process allows the oil to set and bond with the surface, contributing to a durable, non-stick finish.
Maintaining Your Seasoned Griddle
Once your Blackstone 36 inch griddle is properly seasoned, maintenance becomes equally important to ensure it remains in excellent condition.
Regular Cleaning
To maintain your griddle’s seasoning, always clean it properly after each use. Here’s how:
- Heat the Griddle: Turn on the heat and allow the griddle to get hot.
- Scrape Residue: Use your scraper or spatula to remove food particles.
- Wipe Down: Using a paper towel, wipe down the surface with a little oil. This creates a barrier against oxidation.
Re-Season as Needed
Over time, the seasoning may wear off depending on how frequently you use your griddle. Look out for signs of rust or food sticking, and if necessary, repeat the seasoning process.
Tips for an Optimal Grilling Experience
To fully leverage the benefits of your Blackstone griddle, consider these helpful tips:
Choose the Right Cooking Utensils
Using silicone or wooden utensils will help prevent scratching your griddle surface while cooking.
Control the Heat Effectively
Getting to know your griddle’s hotspots will enhance your cooking. Always monitor heat levels, especially when starting a new dish.
Store Properly
If your griddle will be stored for an extended period, cover it to protect against dirt and moisture. Additionally, using a thin coat of oil before storage can help prevent rust.
Conclusion
Seasoning your Blackstone 36 inch griddle is a straightforward yet vital process that ensures a perfect non-stick surface, adds flavor to your meals, and extends the life of your griddle. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll not only succeed in seasoning your griddle but also make the most out of your outdoor cooking experience.
Embrace the joy of cooking on your Blackstone griddle, and remember—consistent care and seasoning will reward you with delicious meals for years to come. So, fire up that grill, and start crafting culinary masterpieces!
What is the best way to season my Blackstone 36 Inch Griddle?
To effectively season your Blackstone griddle, start by cleansing the surface with warm, soapy water to remove any factory residue. Rinse it thoroughly and dry it completely with a clean cloth to prevent any rusting. Once clean, preheat the griddle on high for about 10-15 minutes until it reaches the right temperature for seasoning.
After heating, apply a thin layer of cooking oil, such as flaxseed or vegetable oil, evenly across the surface using a paper towel or cloth. Reduce the heat to medium and let it cook for about 30 minutes, allowing the oil to bond with the metal. Repeat this process at least 2-3 times to create a solid seasoning layer for better cooking performance.
How often should I season my griddle?
The frequency of seasoning your Blackstone griddle largely depends on how often you use it and the types of foods you cook. For regular use, seasoning once a month is generally sufficient to maintain a non-stick surface. However, if you notice food sticking or the griddle changing color, it may be time to re-season sooner.
In addition to regular seasoning, it’s essential to always clean your griddle properly after each use. A well-maintained cooking surface reduces the need for frequent seasoning and prolongs the life of the griddle’s seasoning layer.
Can I use any oil to season my griddle?
While you can use various oils for seasoning, it’s crucial to select oils with high smoke points to prevent any burning or undesirable flavors. Oils such as flaxseed, canola, and grapeseed are excellent choices as they create a durable coating when heated. Avoid using oils with low smoke points, such as olive oil, since they may not produce the best results.
Using the right oil is essential for both seasoning and cooking because it impacts the flavor of your food. Once seasoned, the oil you use for cooking can also affect the ongoing effectiveness of the seasoning, so choose oils that complement your cooking needs.
What should I do if my griddle starts to rust?
If your Blackstone griddle begins to rust, take immediate action to prevent further damage. Start by scrubbing off the rust with a steel wool pad or a stiff brush, making sure to remove as much rust as possible. Once the rust is cleared away, wash the area with hot, soapy water, then thoroughly rinse and dry the griddle to eliminate any moisture.
After drying, you should re-season the affected area and the entire griddle surface. Apply a thin layer of oil and heat as you would during a normal seasoning process. This will restore the protective layer and help prevent future rust from forming.
Is it necessary to season my griddle before cooking?
While new griddles come pre-treated, it’s advisable to season your Blackstone griddle before the first use. Seasoning enhances the non-stick properties and creates a protective layer that can withstand high temperatures and prevent rust. If you skip this step, your food may stick to the surface, making it difficult to cook and clean.
For those who use their griddle frequently, regularly seasoning helps maintain its performance and longevity. By developing a good routine that includes seasoning, you ensure that your cooking surface remains in optimal condition.
Can I cook directly on the griddle without seasoning?
Cooking directly on an unseasoned griddle is not recommended, as it can lead to food sticking and make cleanup difficult. The absence of seasoning creates a rough surface that isn’t ideal for cooking, resulting in uneven heat distribution and food that may burn or stick substantially. Seasoning helps to create a smooth, non-stick surface ideal for various cooking methods.
Beyond just improving the cooking experience, properly seasoning your griddle before cooking helps to enhance the flavor of your dishes. A well-seasoned surface offers a natural cooking environment that can lead to better searing and browning, ultimately elevating your culinary creations.