When it comes to outdoor cooking, few tools can rival the versatility and convenience of a Blackstone griddle. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for your family or hosting a backyard barbecue, a well-seasoned 17-inch Blackstone griddle can make all the difference in flavor and performance. In this guide, we will delve deep into the art of seasoning your griddle, ensuring that you unlock its full potential for delicious meals.
Understanding the Importance of Seasoning
Griddles, especially those made of cold-rolled steel like Blackstone’s models, require seasoning to develop a protective layer that enhances the cooking surface. Here’s why seasoning is crucial:
- Non-Stick Surface: Seasoning creates a slick surface that prevents food from sticking, making cooking and cleanup easier.
- Enhanced Flavor: A well-seasoned griddle can add a rich, flavorful crust to your meals, improving the overall taste.
Gathering Your Supplies
Before diving into the seasoning process, it’s essential to gather all necessary materials. Here’s what you will need:
Essential Items
- 17 Inch Blackstone Griddle: Of course, this is the star of the show.
- High Smoke Point Oil: Oils like canola, grapeseed, or flaxseed work best. Avoid using butter or olive oil as they have lower smoke points.
- Paper Towels or Cloths: For applying the oil.
- Heat-Resistant Gloves: Safety first!
- Spatula: Useful for spreading oil and scraping off any food residues.
Optional Items
- Scrub Brush: For cleaning the surface before seasoning.
- Metal Scraper: To remove stubborn residues.
- Burner Cover: For gas-powered griddles, to help with even heating.
Preparing Your Griddle Surface
Proper preparation is key to achieving the best seasoning. Here’s how to get your griddle ready:
Step 1: Clean the Griddle
Before seasoning, it’s crucial to start with a clean surface. Here’s how:
- First, heat up your griddle to a medium-high temperature. This will help loosen any stuck-on debris.
- Once heated, use a scrub brush or metal scraper to remove any food particles or residues. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth to ensure it’s clean.
Step 2: Dry Thoroughly
After cleaning, make sure to dry the griddle completely. Any moisture left on the surface can lead to uneven seasoning and rust.
Seasoning Your Griddle
Now that your griddle is clean and dry, it’s time to dive into the seasoning process.
Step 3: Apply Oil
Choose a high smoke point oil and apply it generously to the entire surface of the griddle. Here’s how:
- Using paper towels or cloths, pour a small amount of oil directly onto the griddle.
- Spread the oil evenly across the entire surface using the paper towel. Ensure that every inch is covered, paying particular attention to the edges.
Step 4: Heat the Griddle
Once the oil is evenly distributed, it’s time to heat your griddle:
- Set your griddle to the highest heat setting and allow it to heat for approximately 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the surface starts to smoke, which means the oil is reaching its smoke point.
- Monitor the griddle closely while it heats. The oil will begin to change color, turning from a clear state to a dark brown or black—this is a good sign!
Tip:
Always ensure proper ventilation while seasoning, as it can produce a significant amount of smoke.
Step 5: Cool Down and Repeat
Once you see the oil darkening and smoking, turn off the heat and let the griddle cool down. After it has cooled, you may notice that there are some uneven spots or areas that could use another layer of seasoning.
- Repeat the oil application and heating process 2-3 times for best results. Each layer builds a stronger, more durable non-stick coating on your griddle.
Maintaining Your Seasoned Griddle
After properly seasoning your 17-inch Blackstone griddle, it’s crucial to maintain it to preserve its quality. Here are some tips for maintaining your seasoning:
Regular Cleaning
After each use, allow the griddle to cool down slightly before scrubbing it with a scraper while it’s still warm to remove any stuck-on food. Wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove debris. Always ensure it’s dry before the next use.
Re-Seasoning as Needed
Depending on how frequently you use your griddle, you may need to re-season it occasionally. If you notice food starting to stick or the surface looking dull, it may be time to repeat the seasoning process.
Store It Properly
To prevent rust and damage to your griddle, store it in a dry place and consider covering it with a griddle cover. If you live in a humid environment, you might also want to apply a thin coating of oil to the surface before storage.
Enhancing Your Cooking Experience
Now that your griddle is seasoned, it’s time to put it to use! Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience on your 17-inch Blackstone griddle:
Temperature Control
Understanding the heat zones on your griddle is essential. The center usually gets hotter, while the edges may stay cooler. Use this to your advantage by cooking different ingredients at varying temperatures.
Cooking Techniques
Experiment with various cooking techniques such as:
- Searing meats for a delicious crust.
- Stir-frying vegetables to retain their crispness.
- Making breakfast foods like pancakes, eggs, and bacon simultaneously due to the large surface area.
Tip:
Always keep a water bottle handy to control flare-ups while cooking, especially with fatty meats.
Using Accessories
Consider using accessories like a griddle spatula for easy flipping and turning of food. A burger press can ensure even cooking and shaping of patties.
Conclusion
Seasoning your 17-inch Blackstone griddle is a straightforward process that dramatically enhances its performance and longevity. By following the steps laid out in this guide, you can ensure a slick, non-stick cooking surface that will elevate your outdoor cooking game. Regular maintenance, proper cleaning, and occasional re-seasoning will keep your griddle in pristine condition, ready for any culinary adventure. Embrace the joy of outdoor cooking and enjoy delicious meals made on your perfectly seasoned griddle!
What is the best way to season a 17-inch Blackstone griddle?
To properly season your 17-inch Blackstone griddle, start by cleaning the surface with a cloth and warm soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely. Once dry, heat the griddle on high for about 10 minutes until the surface is hot. This step opens up the pores of the metal, allowing the oil to penetrate better.
Next, apply a thin layer of high-smoke point oil, such as flaxseed oil or canola oil, using a paper towel or cloth. Spread the oil evenly across the entire cooking surface and allow the griddle to cook on high heat for an additional 15-20 minutes until the oil starts to smoke. Turn off the heat and allow it to cool down. Repeat the oiling and heating process two to three times for optimal seasoning.
How often should I season my griddle?
The frequency of seasoning your griddle depends on how often you use it and the types of food you cook. Ideally, it is recommended to season your griddle after every few uses, especially if you notice that food is starting to stick or if the surface appears dull. Regular seasoning helps maintain a non-stick surface and protect the griddle from rust and other damage.
If you frequently cook acidic foods, such as tomatoes or citrus, you may need to season your griddle more often because these acids can break down the seasoning layer. Additionally, after deep cleaning or if you notice any scratches or wear on the surface, it’s advisable to re-season the griddle to restore its protective coating.
What oil should I use for seasoning my griddle?
When seasoning your 17-inch Blackstone griddle, it’s best to use oils with a high smoke point to ensure a sturdy, non-stick finish. Some popular options include flaxseed oil, canola oil, and grapeseed oil. Each of these oils can withstand high temperatures without breaking down, which is essential for an effective seasoning process.
Flaxseed oil, in particular, is favored by many griddle enthusiasts because it polymerizes more effectively, creating a strong, durable layer. However, feel free to experiment with other high-smoke point oils based on your preference and availability, understanding that the key is to avoid oils with lower smoke points, like olive oil, during the seasoning process.
Can I use soap on my griddle after seasoning?
While it’s generally advised not to use soap on your griddle after seasoning, a little soap can be acceptable on occasion. If you must clean it after cooking, trying to remove food residue, use warm water combined with a small amount of mild soap and a soft sponge. Make sure to rinse thoroughly and dry it afterward to prevent rust.
To maintain the seasoning layer, some griddle users prefer to simply scrape off any food debris using a spatula or a dedicated griddle scraper. After scraping, wipe the surface down with a cloth or paper towel, applying a thin layer of oil afterward to refresh the seasoning. This method helps prolong the life of your seasoning while keeping your cooking surface clean.
What should I do if my griddle gets rusty?
If your 17-inch Blackstone griddle becomes rusty, don’t panic; it can still be restored. Start by scrubbing the rusty areas with a stiff brush or steel wool to remove as much rust as possible. Making sure to not scratch the metal underneath is essential. Once you have removed the rust, clean the surface thoroughly with soap and water to eliminate any debris or rust particles.
After cleaning, dry the griddle completely to prevent new rust from forming, and then re-season the entire surface. Following the same seasoning process—heating the griddle and applying a thin layer of oil—will help restore its non-stick qualities and protect it from further rusting. As a precaution, consider storing the griddle in a dry place to avoid moisture buildup that can lead to rust.
Why is my griddle not seasoning properly?
If your 17-inch Blackstone griddle isn’t seasoning properly, there could be a few reasons for this. The most common issue is the use of too much oil during the seasoning process. Applying a thick layer of oil can result in a sticky surface rather than a proper non-stick finish. Instead, focus on spreading a very thin layer of oil across the griddle.
Another reason could be inadequate heating time or temperature. Ensure that your griddle reaches high enough temperatures to allow the oil to bond effectively with the metal surface. An ideal temperature is around 400°F-500°F for seasoning. If things are still not working, consider repeating the process and allowing for a longer duration for both heating and cooling, as seasoning requires patience and multiple layers for optimal results.
Can I cook on the griddle immediately after seasoning?
After completing the seasoning process, it is generally safe to cook on your 17-inch Blackstone griddle, but a short waiting period may be beneficial. Once you finish the seasoning process and the griddle has cooled, allowing another 30 minutes of cooling time helps ensure that the oil has properly set into the surface. This will create a better cooking experience and enhance the flavor of your food.
However, for best results, consider cooking a few simple items, like pancakes or grilled cheese sandwiches, the first time you use the griddle after seasoning. This gentle use allows the seasoned layer to further bond while also testing the non-stick properties. Avoid cooking highly acidic or sticky foods for the first couple of uses to maintain your griddle’s seasoning quality.