If you’ve recently invested in a Blackstone griddle, you’re likely excited to start cooking up some delicious meals. However, before you can flip a burger or sauté some veggies, it’s essential to season your griddle properly. Seasoning not only helps create a non-stick surface but also protects your griddle from rust and enhances the flavor of your food. While many may opt for the traditional method of seasoning on the griddle itself, seasoning your Blackstone griddle in the oven can be a cleaner and more efficient approach. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of seasoning your griddle in the oven, along with tips, tricks, and benefits.
Why You Should Season Your Blackstone Griddle
Seasoning is a crucial step that can significantly improve your cooking experience. Here are the primary benefits of seasoning your Blackstone griddle:
- Enhances Non-stick Properties: A well-seasoned griddle develops a smooth, non-stick surface that makes cooking and cleaning much easier.
- Prevents Rust: The seasoning creates a protective layer that guards against moisture, thus preventing rust from forming.
- Adds Flavor: Seasoning enhances the flavor of your food by creating a layer of polymerized oil that infuses dishes with a subtle richness.
- Increases Lifespan: Regular seasoning can extend the life of your griddle by preventing wear and tear, rust, and other damage.
What You Need for Seasoning Your Blackstone Griddle in the Oven
Before you start, gather the necessary supplies to ensure a smooth seasoning process. Here’s a list of items you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Ingredients
- Blackstone Griddle: Ensure it is clean and dry before seasoning.
- Oven-safe Cooking Oil: Choose from oils with high smoke points such as canola, avocado, or flaxseed oil.
- Paper Towels or a Clean Cloth: For applying oil.
- Oven-safe Baking Sheet or Aluminum Foil: To catch any drips during the seasoning process.
- Oven: To heat and season the griddle.
Steps to Season Your Blackstone Griddle in the Oven
Now that you have all the necessary supplies, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of seasoning your Blackstone griddle in the oven.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for creating a solid seasoning layer on your griddle.
Step 2: Clean the Griddle
Before applying any oil, you must ensure that your griddle is clean. If your griddle is new, it may have manufacturing oils or residue. If it’s used, scrub it down to remove any food particles or previous seasoning.
- Scrub Method: Use a non-scratch scrubbing pad and warm soapy water to clean the surface of the griddle. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely with a clean cloth.
Step 3: Apply the Oil
Once your griddle is clean and dry, it’s time to apply the cooking oil. Here’s how to do it:
- Pour a small amount of your chosen oil onto the griddle surface.
- Use a paper towel or clean cloth to spread the oil evenly over the entire cooking surface, including the edges and the underside, if possible.
Note: Avoid over-applying oil, as too much can lead to a sticky surface.
Step 4: Place the Griddle in the Oven
After applying the oil, it’s time to place your griddle in the oven. Follow these steps:
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place it on the bottom rack. This will catch any excess oil that might drip off the griddle.
- Carefully place the oiled griddle upside down on the middle rack of the oven. This orientation allows any excess oil to drip off and ensures even seasoning.
Step 5: Bake the Griddle
Set a timer for 1 hour. During this time, the oil will undergo a chemical change due to the heat, polymerizing and forming a hard, protective coating.
Step 6: Cool Down
After the hour is up, turn off the oven and leave the griddle inside to cool down gradually. This cooling phase is essential as it helps the seasoning set properly without cracking.
Step 7: Repeat (Optional)
For a more robust seasoning layer, consider repeating the process 2-3 times. Each application will enhance the non-stick properties and protective qualities of the griddle.
Tips for Maintaining Your Blackstone Griddle Seasoning
Once you’ve successfully seasoned your Blackstone griddle, maintaining that seasoning is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. Here are some helpful tips:
Cooking Smart
When using your griddle:
- Always use utensils that are safe for non-stick surfaces.
- Avoid using metal spatulas or abrasive cleaners to prevent damaging the seasoning layer.
Regular Cleaning
After cooking, clean your griddle while it’s still warm. Avoid soaking or using harsh chemicals; a gentle scrubbing with hot water will suffice. If you need to use soap, ensure it’s a mild one.
Reapplying Seasoning
Depending on usage frequency, it might be necessary to re-season your Blackstone griddle. Signs that it’s time to re-season include:
- Areas where food starts to stick.
- A dull or rusty appearance on the surface.
Conclusion
Seasoning your Blackstone griddle in the oven is a straightforward yet essential process that provides numerous benefits, from enhancing cooking performance to extending the lifespan of your griddle.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a durable and effective non-stick surface for all your cooking needs. Remember to maintain your griddle with careful cleaning and occasional re-seasoning to keep it in top shape.
Once seasoned, prepare to enjoy countless delicious meals cooked to perfection on your Blackstone griddle, making every culinary adventure a delightful experience! Happy cooking!
What is the best oil to use for seasoning my Blackstone griddle?
To achieve optimal seasoning results, it’s recommended to use oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or flaxseed oil. These oils can withstand the high temperatures required during the seasoning process without breaking down, allowing for a durable and resilient seasoning layer. Flaxseed oil, in particular, is favored by many for its ability to create a hard, non-stick coating when applied correctly.
Additionally, it’s important to avoid oils with low smoke points, such as olive oil or butter, as they can lead to excessive smoke and uneven seasoning. Whichever oil you choose, ensure that it is free of additives, as these could negatively affect the seasoning process. A thin layer applied evenly will contribute to a smooth and effective seasoning.
How do I prepare my Blackstone griddle for seasoning?
Preparing your Blackstone griddle is a critical step for effective seasoning. Start by thoroughly cleaning the griddle surface to remove any debris, rust, or leftover food particles. Use a mixture of warm water and a non-abrasive scrubber, then dry the surface completely with a clean cloth. This ensures that your griddle is free from residues that may interfere with the seasoning process.
Once cleaned, check for any rusty spots or pitting on the griddle. If you find any, consider using a light abrasive, such as steel wool, to gently scrub these areas. Afterward, rinse and dry the griddle again. It’s essential to apply the seasoning oil to a clean surface, ensuring that the oil adheres properly and creates an even layer for effective seasoning.
How do I season my Blackstone griddle in the oven?
To season your Blackstone griddle in the oven, first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, apply a thin layer of your chosen oil evenly over the entire surface of the griddle. Make sure to cover not just the cooking surface but also the edges to provide a complete seasoning treatment. Use a paper towel or a cloth to spread the oil consistently.
Once oiled, place the griddle upside down on the top rack of the oven to prevent oil drips. It’s advisable to place a baking sheet lined with foil on the lower rack to catch any excess oil. Allow the griddle to bake for about one hour. After the hour is up, turn off the oven and let the griddle cool inside before taking it out. This cooling stage will allow the seasoning to cure properly, creating a durable non-stick surface.
How many times do I need to 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. As a general guideline, seasoning is recommended after every few uses, especially if you notice food starting to stick or if the surface appears dull. Regular maintenance can help prolong the life of the seasoning and enhance its non-stick properties.
However, if you’ve just cleaned the griddle thoroughly, or if it’s exposed to moisture or rust, you might want to season it more frequently. Some griddle enthusiasts recommend doing a complete season—applying a few layers of oil and allowing it to bake—in the oven every few months to maintain a solid seasoning foundation. Observing the griddle’s performance will help you determine the best seasoning routine for your cooking habits.
Can I use my Blackstone griddle right after seasoning?
After seasoning your Blackstone griddle, it’s advisable to let it cool completely before using it again. Attempting to cook on it immediately while it is still hot can lead to a disrupted seasoning layer and may reduce its non-stick capability. Patience is essential to allow the oil to cure and bond effectively to the surface of the griddle.
Once the griddle has cooled and the seasoning has set, you can proceed to preheat it before cooking. Some grillers suggest heating it up slightly and applying a small amount of cooking oil before placing food on it, as this can enhance the flavor while also providing an additional non-stick layer. This ensures that your newly seasoned griddle performs at its best for every cookout.
What should I do if my seasoning starts to peel?
If you notice your seasoning peeling, it’s typically due to using too much oil or not allowing the seasoning to cure properly. To address this issue, the first step is to remove any loose seasoning with a razor blade or a scraper. Be careful not to scratch the surface of the griddle as you do so. After scraping off the peeling areas, clean the griddle again to remove any remaining residue.
Once you’ve cleared off the peeling seasoning, you’ll need to re-season the griddle. Follow the proper cleaning methods, and apply a thin layer of your oil of choice as you did during the initial seasoning. Allow it to bake in the oven again and go through the seasoning process from scratch to restore the protective layer. Taking care to be consistent and thorough in applying oil can help avoid peeling in the future.
Is it necessary to season my Blackstone griddle after every use?
While it’s not necessary to season your Blackstone griddle after every single use, doing so helps to maintain its non-stick surface and prolongs its lifespan. Ideally, after each cooking session, you should wipe the surface clean to remove food residues and debris. If you notice any areas showing signs of wear or sticking, it’s a good practice to add a light layer of oil after cleaning.
In addition, if you frequently cook foods that are acidic or sugary, re-seasoning becomes vital. These types of foods can break down the seasoning layer more rapidly. Thus, developing a routine of light seasoning after every few uses can keep your griddle performing at its best while ensuring that the seasoning remains intact over time.
Can I use non-stick spray for seasoning my Blackstone griddle?
While it might be tempting to use non-stick spray for seasoning due to its convenience, most experts recommend against it. Non-stick sprays often contain additives and propellants that can leave a sticky residue on the griddle. This residue can interfere with seasoning and create uneven cooking surfaces, leading to sticking and other issues during grilling.
Instead, it’s advisable to use pure oils with high smoke points to achieve effective seasoning. By applying a thin, even layer of these oils, you can create a robust seasoning layer that enhances the cooking surface, maintains its integrity under heat, and prevents food from sticking. Focusing on the right type of oil for seasoning can make a significant difference in the performance and longevity of your Blackstone griddle.