Are you excited to take your outdoor cooking to the next level? The Blackstone 17 Inch Griddle is a versatile cooking tool that allows you to whip up delicious meals, from breakfast pancakes to savory dinner stir-fries. But before you start cooking, it’s crucial to learn how to properly season your griddle. Seasoning not only enhances the flavor of your food but also protects the griddle’s surface from rust and wear. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to effectively season your Blackstone griddle to ensure it lasts for years while delivering mouthwatering dishes.
The Importance of Seasoning Your Griddle
When you season your Blackstone griddle, you are essentially creating a non-stick surface that enhances the cooking experience. A well-seasoned griddle has several advantages:
- Enhanced Non-Stick Properties: A seasoned griddle allows food to slide off easily, making for a cleaner cooking process.
- Flavor Enhancement: The seasoning layer can impart flavors to the food, particularly when cooking fatty foods or meats.
Let’s break down the seasoning process to ensure you achieve the best results.
Materials Needed for Seasoning
Before you begin the seasoning process, gather all the materials you will need:
- Blackstone 17 Inch Griddle
- Natural oil (such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or flaxseed oil)
- Paper towels or a cloth
- Heat-resistant gloves
- Spatula
- Scraper (optional, for cleaning)
Step-by-Step Guide to Seasoning Your Blackstone Griddle
Now that you have your materials ready, follow these steps to season your griddle effectively.
Step 1: Clean the Griddle Surface
Before applying any oil, ensure that your griddle is clean.
- Start with a **clean slate**. Use a scraper to remove any debris or food remnants from previous cooks.
- Wipe the griddle down with a damp cloth to remove any dust or particles, then dry it thoroughly.
Step 2: Preheat the Griddle
Preheating your griddle is essential for effective seasoning.
- Turn on the griddle to medium heat and allow it to preheat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Check that the surface is evenly heated; you can do this by flicking a few droplets of water onto the surface. If they sizzle and evaporate quickly, it’s a good sign that your griddle is ready.
Step 3: Apply the Oil
Now it’s time to apply the oil, which will create that coveted non-stick layer.
- Using a paper towel or cloth, **gently apply a thin layer** of natural oil over the entire cooking surface of the griddle. You want just enough to coat without pooling.
- Use a spatula to spread the oil evenly across the surface. Avoid lifting the oiled paper towel too much to maintain an even layer.
Step 4: Heat Again to Bond the Oil
This step is crucial for forming the non-stick surface.
- After applying the oil, raise the griddle’s temperature to high and let it heat for 15-20 minutes until it starts to smoke. This is the moment when the oil begins to bond with the metal, creating the seasoning layer.
Step 5: Repeat the Process
For optimal results, seasoning should be repeated multiple times.
- Once the griddle has cooled slightly, you may want to wipe off excess oil with another paper towel. Once it cools down completely, reapply a thin layer of oil and repeat the heating process another two to three times.
Step 6: Cool and Store Properly
After you’ve completed the seasoning process, make sure to properly store your griddle.
- Allow your griddle to cool completely.
- If you need to store it, make sure to cover it with a griddle cover to protect it from dust and moisture.
Maintaining Your Seasoned Griddle
Like any great tool, your Blackstone griddle requires regular maintenance to ensure it performs at its best. Here are some tips to keep it in prime condition:
Regular Cleaning
After each cooking session, make sure to clean your griddle properly.
- Let the griddle cool down slightly but remain warm.
- Use a spatula to scrape off any bits of food and debris.
- Wipe down the surface with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove grease.
Re-seasoning as Needed
Over time, the non-stick surface may wear down, especially after heavy use. Here’s how to identify when to re-season:
- If food starts to stick to the surface during cooking.
- If you notice rust or discoloration on the surface.
When either occurs, repeat the seasoning process detailed above.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your seasoning process is effective, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls:
Using the Wrong Oil
Using oils with low smoke points, like olive oil, can result in a sticky surface that can be challenging to clean. Stick to oils with high smoke points, such as:
| Oil Type | Smoke Point (°F) |
|---|---|
| Vegetable Oil | 400 |
| Canola Oil | 400 |
| Flaxseed Oil | 225 |
Skipping the Preheat
Preheating is vital to ensure that the oil bonds correctly. Skipping this step can lead to ineffective seasoning that doesn’t last.
Conclusion
Seasoning your Blackstone 17 Inch Griddle is an essential step in ensuring that your cooking experiences are not only enjoyable but also safe and productive. Remember, a well-seasoned griddle can mean the difference between a good meal and a great meal.
By following this guide, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of seasoning your griddle. Take care of it, and it will reward you with delicious, perfectly cooked meals that your friends and family will love. Happy cooking!
What is the best way to season a Blackstone 17 Inch Griddle?
To season your Blackstone 17 Inch Griddle, start by cleaning the surface thoroughly with warm soapy water, ensuring any protective coating or residue is removed. Rinse and dry the griddle completely. Once dry, preheat the griddle on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until it’s hot. This step helps to open up the pores of the steel surface, making it easier for the oil to adhere.
After preheating, apply a thin, even layer of high-smoke-point oil (like flaxseed, canola, or grapeseed oil) across the entire surface using a paper towel or cloth. Allow the oil to heat until it begins to smoke, which helps to polymerize the oil and create a non-stick coating. Repeat this process a few times to build up a solid layer of seasoning, ensuring your griddle is well-prepared for future cooking.
How often should I season my Blackstone 17 Inch Griddle?
The frequency with which you should season your Blackstone 17 Inch Griddle can depend on how often you use it and the types of foods you cook. A general guideline is to season it every few uses or whenever the surface starts to look dull, stick, or develop food residues that are hard to clean. When you notice that your food starts to stick, it’s a good indicator that your griddle may need a re-season.
After high-use events, such as cooking with marinades or sticky foods, it’s advisable to perform a light seasoning. Simply clean the surface and apply a thin layer of oil to keep the griddle in optimal condition. Regular maintenance and light seasoning after use can prolong the life of your griddle and ensure even cooking.
Can I use any oil to season my Blackstone griddle?
While you can technically use various oils to season your Blackstone griddle, it’s best to select oils that have a high smoke point to prevent them from burning during the seasoning process. Common options include flaxseed oil, grapeseed oil, canola oil, and vegetable oil. These oils can withstand higher temperatures without degrading, making them ideal for creating a durable non-stick surface.
Avoid using oils with lower smoke points, such as olive oil or butter, since they may not achieve the desired seasoning effect and can leave an unpleasant residue. Choosing the right oil can make a significant difference in the quality of the seasoning, so opt for those that are specifically recommended for griddles.
What should I do if I notice rust on my Blackstone griddle?
If you notice rust on your Blackstone 17 Inch Griddle, it’s essential to clean it thoroughly before re-seasoning. Start by scrubbing the rusted areas with a steel wool pad or a putty knife until the rust is completely removed. Rinse the surface with water to remove any debris, and then dry it thoroughly to prevent further rusting.
Once you have cleaned off the rust, re-season your griddle by applying a thin layer of high-smoke-point oil and heating it to allow the oil to bond with the surface. It may require several rounds of seasoning to restore the protective layer fully. Regular maintenance and proper storage after cooking will help prevent rust from forming in the future.
Are there specific foods I should avoid cooking on a seasoned griddle?
When it comes to using your seasoned Blackstone griddle, it’s best to avoid cooking foods that are exceptionally acidic or sugary, especially during the initial seasoning phase. Items like tomatoes, vinegar-based sauces, or foods with high sugar content can break down the seasoning layer and lead to sticking or damage. Using cast-iron cookware or other methods might be more suitable for these types of foods.
Once your griddle is well-seasoned and has a solid non-stick layer, you can cook a wide variety of foods. However, it’s still wise to be cautious with highly acidic foods as they can still affect the seasoning over time. Maintain the griddle’s seasoning by reapplying oil and following good cleaning practices after each use.
How do I clean my Blackstone griddle after using it?
To clean your Blackstone 17 Inch Griddle after cooking, let it cool down slightly, but not completely. Once it is safe to touch, scrape any food debris off the surface using a metal spatula or scraper. This action helps remove residue without harming the seasoned layer. You may also use a grill brush designed specifically for flat-top surfaces to assist with this process.
After scraping, wipe the surface down with a paper towel or a soft cloth. If needed, you can use a mixture of warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap to further clean stubborn spots. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or steel wool, as these can scratch and damage the seasoning. Once cleaned, dry the griddle thoroughly and reapply a thin coat of oil to maintain the seasoning.