When it comes to outdoor cooking, few tools can rival the versatility and convenience of a Blackstone griddle. These cooking surfaces offer an expansive area to prepare an array of delicious meals. However, to achieve that perfect non-stick surface and optimal cooking performance, you need to know how to properly season your 22″ Blackstone griddle. This guide will walk you through the essential steps of seasoning, explain why it’s crucial, and provide you with tips to maintain your griddle over time.
Understanding the Importance of Seasoning
Seasoning a Blackstone griddle is not just a step; it is a fundamental process that significantly enhances your cooking experience. When you season your griddle, you are essentially creating a protective layer that serves multiple purposes:
- Non-Stick Surface: Properly seasoned griddles develop a natural non-stick surface, reducing the chance of food sticking to the cooking surface.
- Corrosion Prevention: Seasoning protects the metal from rust and corrosion, prolonging the life of your griddle.
To get started, it’s essential to gather all the materials and follow the correct steps. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to seasoning your Blackstone griddle.
What You Will Need
Before diving into the actual seasoning process, ensure you have the following materials:
- A clean, empty Blackstone griddle
- Paper towels or a lint-free cloth
- High smoke point oil (vegetable oil, grapeseed oil, or flaxseed oil)
- A heat-resistant spatula
- An outdoor grill lighter or long-handled lighter
- Heat-resistant gloves
- Safety glasses (optional, but recommended)
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Season Your 22″ Blackstone Griddle
Now that you have all your materials ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of seasoning your griddle.
Step 1: Preheat Your Griddle
The first step in the seasoning process is to preheat your griddle. Follow these steps:
- Turn on the burners: Set all burners to high heat. Allow the griddle to preheat for around 10-15 minutes until it starts to turn slightly discolored. This process is vital because it opens the pores of the steel surface, allowing the oil to penetrate better.
Step 2: Clean the Cooking Surface
Before applying oil, ensure the griddle’s surface is clean and free of debris. If this is the first seasoning or after a previous cook, use a spatula to scrape off any residue:
- After scraping, you can wipe the surface with a damp paper towel to pick up any loosened particles.
Step 3: Apply Oil
Once the griddle is hot and clean, it’s time to apply the oil:
- Choose your oil wisely: Select a high smoke point oil such as vegetable, canola, or flaxseed oil. These oils can withstand high temperatures without burning.
- Apply a thin layer: Using a paper towel or a lint-free cloth, dip it in the oil and rub it evenly across the entire cooking surface. Make sure to spread it thin to avoid pooling of oil.
Step 4: Heat Oil Until It Smokes
After applying the oil, let the griddle continue to heat. You want the oil to reach its smoke point:
- Watch for smoking: Keep a close eye on your griddle while it’s heating. Once the oil starts to smoke, you need to rotate the griddle every few minutes to prevent any area from burning or becoming unevenly seasoned.
Step 5: Reapply Oil and Repeat**
Once you’ve established a solid base of seasoning with the first application, you can repeat the oil application process:
- Cool down slightly: After about 15-20 minutes of smoking, let the griddle cool a bit.
- Reapply oil: With the griddle slightly cooler, apply a thin layer of oil again, repeating the heating process until you get a smooth, dark surface.
Aim to repeat this process 3-4 times for best results. Each layer helps to create a stronger and more durable seasoning surface.
Step 6: Final Cool Down
Once you have successfully applied multiple layers of oil and created a nice, even coating, turn off the burners and let your griddle cool down completely. This final cooling allows the oil to bond better with the surface.
Post-Seasoning Care and Maintenance
After you have seasoned your 22″ Blackstone griddle, it’s essential to maintain its surface to ensure longevity and performance:
Cleaning Your Griddle After Use
After cooking on your griddle, let it cool slightly, and follow these steps for effective cleaning:
- Scrape the surface: Use a heat-resistant spatula to scrape away any food particles and residue.
- Wipe down: Dampen a cloth with warm water and wipe the griddle surface. Avoid using soap, as it can strip away the seasoning layer.
- Dry thoroughly: Always dry your griddle completely to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to rust.
Re-seasoning as Needed
Even with proper care, you may need to re-season your griddle from time to time. Signs that it’s time to re-season include:
- Dull or light-colored patches on the cooking surface
- Food begins to stick
- Rust spots appear
When you notice these signs, follow the initial seasoning process again for optimal cooking performance.
Additional Tips for Optimal Seasoning
To achieve the best results when seasoning your 22″ Blackstone griddle, consider the following tips:
Choose the Right Location
Make sure to season your griddle in a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors. The smoking oil can create fumes that linger, which isn’t advisable for indoor spaces.
Experiment with Oils
Different oils have different flavor profiles and season more effectively based on personal cooking preferences. Experimenting with various oils can impact the taste of the food and the griddle’s overall performance.
Temperature Control is Key
Pay careful attention to the temperature. Too high can cause the oil to burn, while too low won’t allow it to bond correctly. Finding a happy medium is crucial.
Conclusion
Seasoning your 22″ Blackstone griddle is an essential practice that not only enhances its performance but significantly extends its lifespan. Following the steps outlined in this article will help you create a perfectly seasoned griddle that serves as your outdoor cooking companion for years to come. Remember to maintain your griddle through proper cleaning and re-seasoning as needed. With diligent care, you’ll experience the joys of cooking on a well-seasoned Blackstone griddle and delight in the flavors of grilled masterpieces that emerge from its surface. Happy cooking!
What is the best way to season my 22″ Blackstone griddle?
To season your 22″ Blackstone griddle effectively, start by cleaning the surface with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge to remove any dust or debris. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel. Next, turn on the griddle to a medium-high heat until it’s hot, which will open the pores of the steel.
Once heated, apply a thin layer of oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or grapeseed oil, using a paper towel or cloth. Spread the oil evenly across the surface and allow it to heat until it reaches its smoke point. Let the oil smoke for several minutes, then turn off the griddle and allow it to cool completely. Repeat this process two to three times for optimal seasoning.
How often should I season my Blackstone griddle?
The frequency of seasoning your Blackstone griddle depends on how often you use it and what you cook. If you use it frequently, especially for foods that leave residue or a sticky residue, you should consider seasoning it every few cooking sessions. A good rule of thumb is to inspect the surface after multiple uses to see if it has lost its shine or appears discolored, indicating that it needs a fresh layer.
For lighter use, seasoning the griddle once every few months is typically sufficient. Remember to always clean the griddle properly after each cooking session, as this maintenance can help extend the time between seasonings and keep the surface in good condition.
Can I use any type of oil for seasoning my griddle?
While you can use various oils for seasoning, it’s crucial to select oils with a high smoke point, which will ensure they reach the necessary temperature to bond with the surface of the griddle. Common oils recommended for seasoning include canola oil, vegetable oil, flaxseed oil, and grapeseed oil. Each of these oils will create a durable and non-stick layer if applied correctly.
Avoid oils with low smoke points, such as olive oil or butter, as they can burn and create a sticky residue rather than a smooth seasoning layer. Additionally, using oils specifically designed for high-heat cooking will yield better results and longevity for your griddle’s surface.
How do I know when my griddle is properly seasoned?
A properly seasoned griddle will have a dark, shiny surface that looks and feels smooth to the touch. When you cook on a well-seasoned griddle, food should release easily without sticking to the surface. If your food glides easily and there’s minimal scratching, it’s a sign that your seasoning is doing its job.
If you notice any patches that seem rough, discolored, or sticky, it may indicate that the seasoning is uneven, and it might be time for a touch-up. Regular cooking and proper maintenance of the seasoning will help you maintain that glossy finish and prevent rust from forming.
Can I clean my griddle after seasoning it, and how?
Yes, you can clean your griddle after seasoning it, but it requires a certain approach to maintain the seasoning layer. Use a metal spatula or scraper to remove any food debris left after cooking while the griddle is still warm. After scraping, you can wipe down the surface with a paper towel to remove any remaining grease or residues.
For deeper cleaning, wait until the griddle has cooled down, then apply a small amount of warm water and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Avoid using soap, as it can strip away the seasoning. After cleaning, make sure to dry the surface completely and apply a thin layer of oil to reseason it and prevent rust.
What should I do if my griddle rusts?
If your griddle develops rust, it’s important to address it promptly to prevent further deterioration. Begin by scrubbing the rusted area with fine steel wool or a rust eraser until all the rust is removed. Rinse the area with warm water to ensure no debris remains, and dry it completely to avoid further rust formation.
Once the rust is removed and the griddle is dry, you should re-season the affected areas. Apply a thin coat of high-smoke-point oil and heat the griddle until the oil smokes, allowing it to bond with the surface. This process will restore the protective seasoning layer and prevent any future rust.
Can I season my griddle indoors or does it have to be outside?
While seasoning your griddle is possible indoors, it is generally recommended to do so outdoors due to the smoke produced during the heating process. The smoke point of the oils used in seasoning can lead to smoke filling up your kitchen, which can be uncomfortable and potentially trigger smoke alarms.
If you choose to season indoors, ensure that your kitchen is well-ventilated. Open windows, turn on exhaust fans, and be prepared for some smoke. Ultimately, seasoning outside may provide a more pleasant experience and is less likely to disrupt your cooking environment.
Are there specific foods I should avoid cooking on a newly seasoned griddle?
When you have a newly seasoned griddle, it’s advisable to avoid cooking foods that are high in acidity or sugar, such as tomatoes or marinades, as they can strip away the seasoning layer. Additionally, cooking delicate foods like eggs right after seasoning might cause them to stick as the non-stick surface is still developing.
It’s best to start with foods that are less likely to stick, such as bacon or grilled vegetables. Once you have used the griddle a few times and built up a robust seasoning layer, you can experiment with a wider range of foods without concern for sticking or damaging your seasoning.