The Ultimate Guide to Seasoning Your Blackstone Griddle Top

When it comes to outdoor cooking, the Blackstone griddle has quickly risen to fame for its versatility and ability to cook a wide variety of delicious meals. However, to ensure that your griddle performs at its best and lasts for years, proper seasoning is crucial. This process not only protects the metal from rust but also enhances the flavor of the food by creating a natural non-stick surface. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the importance of seasoning, the best methods to do it, and some essential tips to keep your Blackstone griddle in tip-top shape.

Why Seasoning is Essential for Your Blackstone Griddle

Seasoning a Blackstone griddle top is more than just a maintenance step; it’s a vital process that provides several benefits for both the griddle and the food prepared on it.

Prevention of Rust and Corrosion

Blackstone griddles are made from steel, which means they are susceptible to rusting when exposed to moisture. Proper seasoning creates a barrier that protects the metal from the elements, ensuring a longer lifespan for your griddle.

Enhanced Flavor and Cooking Performance

The seasoning layer enhances the flavor of the food you cook. When seasoning is done correctly, it allows for better heat distribution across the cooking surface. This means that food will cook more evenly, leading to better results every time you fire up the griddle.

Creating a Non-Stick Surface

A well-seasoned griddle provides a natural non-stick surface, reducing the need for excessive oil or butter. This is particularly beneficial for healthier cooking and makes cleaning up easier afterwards.

How to Season Your Blackstone Griddle Top

Seasoning your griddle might seem daunting at first, but with the right steps, it can be an easy task. Here’s a detailed guide on how to get it done effectively.

Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following items:

• Blackstone griddle
• Paper towels or a clean cloth
• Cooking oil (flaxseed oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil work best)
• Heat-resistant gloves
• Scraper or spatula

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Griddle Surface

Once you’ve gathered your materials, the first step is to clean the griddle surface thoroughly. Start with the following steps:

• Turn on your griddle to a medium heat setting for about 10-15 minutes. This will help to burn off any residue from previous cooking sessions.
• Allow the griddle to cool slightly, then use a scraper or spatula to remove any stuck-on food particles.
• Wipe down the surface with a moist paper towel or cloth to remove any remaining debris. Ensure the griddle is fully dry before moving to the next step.

2. Apply Cooking Oil

Now that your surface is clean, it’s time to apply the oil. Burning oil helps to create that coveted seasoning layer. Follow these instructions:

• Pour a small amount of your chosen cooking oil onto the griddle surface. A few tablespoons should be sufficient.
• Use a paper towel or cloth to spread the oil evenly across the entire cooking area, making sure to cover the edges and corners as well.
• Note: It’s important not to overdo it with the oil; too much oil can create a sticky surface.

3. Heat the Griddle

• Turn your griddle on to a high heat setting.
• Let it heat for about 20-30 minutes. You’re looking for the oil to smoke, which indicates that it is starting to bond to the metal surface.
• Be cautious and ensure you wear heat-resistant gloves during this process, as the griddle will become extremely hot.

4. Repeat the Oiling Process

• After 20-30 minutes, turn off the griddle and allow it to cool slightly.
• Once it’s warm but not scalding, repeat the oil application and heating process one more time.
• Depending on the initial condition of your griddle, you may want to complete this oiling and heating process 2-3 times to build a strong seasoning layer.

5. Final Touches

• Once your griddle has cooled down completely, wipe it down once more with a paper towel to remove any excess oil.
• Congratulations! Your Blackstone griddle is now seasoned and ready for cooking.

Best Oils for Seasoning Your Blackstone Griddle

The choice of oil can significantly impact the seasoning process. Here are some of the best oils to consider:

Choosing the right oil is just as important as the seasoning process itself. Generally, oils with a high smoke point work best since they can withstand the higher temperatures used in seasoning.

Maintaining Your Seasoned Griddle

Proper maintenance is just as important as the initial seasoning. Here are some helpful tips to extend the life of your griddle and keep it functioning optimally:

Regular Cleaning

After each use, it’s essential to clean your griddle properly. Here’s how to do it:

• Allow the griddle to cool down slightly but not completely.
• Use a scraper to remove food debris.
• Wipe the surface with a damp cloth, ensuring to remove any particles.

Reapply Oil After Cooking

It’s a best practice to apply a thin layer of cooking oil after each use. This helps maintain the seasoning and protects the surface from exposure to air and moisture, which can lead to rust.

Avoid Soaking and Harsh Scrubbing

While it may be tempting to soak your griddle or use harsh cleansers, this can strip away the seasoning layer. Instead, stick to warm water and a gentle scrubber or cloth for cleaning.

Signs Your Griddle Needs to Be Reseasoned

Over time and with frequent use, your griddle’s seasoning can wear away. Look for these signs that indicate it’s time to reseason:

• Visible rust appearing on the surface
• Food sticking excessively despite oiling

If you observe any of these issues, it’s time to go through the seasoning process again to restore that non-stick surface.

Conclusion

Seasoning your Blackstone griddle is integral to enjoying flavorful, perfectly cooked meals while extending the lifespan of your griddle. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your griddle is well-maintained and ready for all your grilling adventures. Remember, a little care goes a long way, so embrace the art of seasoning and take pride in your outdoor cooking experience!

What is seasoning a Blackstone griddle?

Seasoning a Blackstone griddle involves applying a layer of oil to the cooking surface and heating it, which creates a non-stick surface while also protecting the griddle from rust. This process helps to enhance the flavor of the food cooked on it and improves the griddle’s longevity. Proper seasoning is an essential step for any griddle owner to ensure optimal cooking conditions.

When you season your griddle, you are essentially polymerizing oil into the surface, forming a protective layer. This procedure not only helps improve the food’s taste but also creates a barrier against moisture and contaminants that can lead to rust. Therefore, seasoning should be done regularly, especially after cleaning or if the griddle has been exposed to the elements.

How often should I season my Blackstone griddle?

The frequency of seasoning your Blackstone griddle can depend on how often you use it and what types of foods you prepare. As a general guideline, it’s recommended to season your griddle every few uses, especially after cooking foods with higher acidity or after cleaning it thoroughly. If you notice food sticking to the surface or if the griddle starts to look dull or silvery, it’s a sign that it’s time for a new seasoning layer.

For extensive use, especially in commercial settings or large family gatherings, you may want to season it more frequently. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the griddle’s surface and adjust your seasoning schedule based on its performance. Regular maintenance and seasoning will ensure that your griddle remains in top condition for years to come.

What type of oil should I use for seasoning my griddle?

When seasoning your Blackstone griddle, it’s best to use oils with high smoke points. Popular choices include flaxseed oil, canola oil, and grapeseed oil. Flaxseed oil is often favored because it creates a durable seasoning layer, but canola and grapeseed oils work well too. Avoid oils like olive oil or butter, as they have lower smoke points and can lead to a sticky residue rather than a smooth, hard finish.

When choosing an oil, consider the flavor profile it brings to your food. While the primary goal is to create a protective layer, using an oil with a pleasant taste can enhance the flavors of the dishes you prepare. No matter which oil you choose, ensure that it’s pure and free of additives for the best results during the seasoning process.

How do I properly season my Blackstone griddle?

To properly season your Blackstone griddle, start by cleaning the surface so that it’s free of any debris or rust. Use a high-quality grill cleaner and a scraper to remove any previous seasoning or residue. After cleaning, wipe the surface dry and preheat the griddle on high for about 10 to 15 minutes, allowing it to reach a good working temperature.

Once the griddle is hot, lower the heat to medium and apply a thin layer of your chosen oil across the entire cooking surface using a paper towel or cloth. Be sure to cover the entire surface evenly, then let the oil heat for about 10-15 minutes until it starts to smoke. Repeat the oil application process several times to build a strong seasoning layer, ensuring you let the griddle cool down in between sessions.

Can I use soap to clean my griddle after seasoning?

Using soap to clean your Blackstone griddle is a controversial topic among griddle aficionados. After seasoning, it is advisable to minimize the use of soap and instead stick to water and a scrubbing tool, like a grill brush or scraper, for routine cleaning. Soap can break down the seasoning layer that you’ve worked to build, leading to a rough surface and diminished cooking performance.

If your griddle has baked-on food or heavy grease, you may choose to use a little soap occasionally, but always make sure to re-season the affected areas afterward. The goal is to maintain the seasoning while keeping the griddle clean, which can often be achieved with a simple wipe down and water. Regular cleaning helps maintain the seasoning without compromising its integrity.

What should I do if my griddle starts to rust?

If you notice rust on your Blackstone griddle, it’s important to act quickly to prevent it from spreading. Start by scraping off the rust with a metal scraper or grill brush, then clean the surface with hot water to remove any debris. Once the rust is removed, dry the griddle thoroughly to prevent further moisture accumulation, which can lead to more rust formation.

After cleaning, it’s essential to re-season the griddle to protect it from future rust. Apply a thin layer of oil and heat it until it reaches the smoke point, sealing the surface. Regular maintenance, including wiping down the griddle after each use and properly storing it, can help prevent rust from developing. If rust does occur, don’t be discouraged; consistent care and timely action can restore your griddle’s condition.