The Blackstone 22 inch griddle is a culinary marvel that brings the versatility of outdoor cooking to your backyard. Whether you’re grilling breakfast pancakes, searing steaks, or preparing your favorite stir-fry, this griddle gives you the space and temperatures needed for gourmet results. However, to ensure that your griddle performs at its best, seasoning is an essential step that can’t be overlooked. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of how to season your Blackstone griddle for maximum flavor and longevity.
Why Seasoning is Important
Before we dive into the actual process of seasoning your Blackstone griddle, it’s vital to understand why this step is crucial for your cooking experience.
The Science Behind Seasoning
Seasoning a griddle creates a non-stick surface that is essential for cooking. When food makes contact with a well-seasoned griddle, it is less likely to stick, which helps to retain its shape and flavor. Beyond that, seasoning protects your griddle from rust and corrosion, a common issue in outdoor cooking devices.
Benefits of a Well-Seasoned Griddle
- Enhanced Flavor: A properly seasoned griddle adds flavor to your food over time as it builds layers of seasoning.
- Improved Cooking Surface: A non-stick surface ensures easy flipping and turning of food items.
- Longevity: Seasoning increases the lifespan of your griddle by protecting it from environmental elements and sticking food.
Gathering Your Materials
Before you begin the seasoning process, it is essential to gather the necessary materials. Here’s what you will need:
Required Items
- Blackstone 22 inch griddle
- Cooking oil with a high smoke point (such as canola, avocado, or grapeseed oil)
- Paper towels or a clean cloth
- Lighter or long matches
- Grill scraper (optional, for cleaning)
Having everything at hand will make the seasoning process more efficient and effective.
Step-by-Step Guide to Season Your Blackstone Griddle
Follow this comprehensive guide to ensure your Blackstone 22 inch griddle is seasoned correctly:
Step 1: Clean Your Griddle
Before seasoning, it’s crucial to clean the griddle surface thoroughly.
How to Clean
- Preheat your griddle: Turn on the gas burners and ignite your griddle. Set the temperature to medium-high for about 10 minutes. This helps to loosen any debris and old food particles.
- Scrape the surface: Use a grill scraper to remove residue. Be sure to get into any crevices where grease or food may have accumulated.
- Wipe it down: After scraping, use a paper towel to wipe down the surface, removing any loose debris.
Cleaning is a critical first step in the seasoning process; it ensures that you’re starting with a clean slate.
Step 2: Apply the Oil
Once your griddle is clean and dry, it’s time to apply the oil.
How to Apply Oil
- Choose the right oil: It’s best to use an oil with a high smoke point. Good options include canola oil, avocado oil, and grapeseed oil.
- Distribute oil evenly: Pour a small amount of oil onto the cooking surface. Use a paper towel to spread the oil into a thin, even layer. Make sure to cover the entire cooking surface, including the edges.
Step 3: Heat the Griddle
Heating the griddle causes the oil to bond to the surface, forming a protective layer.
How to Heat the Griddle
- Turn on the heat: Set your griddle to medium-high and allow it to heat up for about 10-15 minutes. You want the surface to begin smoking; this signifies that the oil is polymerizing.
- Monitor the smoke: If it begins to smoke excessively, turn the heat down slightly to avoid burning the oil.
Step 4: Repeat the Oil Application
To create a robust seasoning layer, it’s important to repeat the oil application process.
How to Repeat
- Turn off the heat: Let the griddle cool down slightly, then repeat the oil application process.
- Apply a thin layer: Apply a second thin layer of oil and heat again for another 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Cool Down and Wipe Off Excess Oil
Once you have completed the heating and oiling process, allow the griddle to cool down.
Final Steps
- Check for residue: After it cools, check for any excess oil. Use a paper towel to wipe away any pooling or excess.
- Final heating: For best results, consider heating the griddle one last time on medium to ensure everything is set.
Maintaining Your Seasoned Griddle
Once you have seasoned your griddle, it’s essential to maintain it properly for long-term use.
Regular Cleaning
After each use, allow the griddle to cool and lightly scrape off any food residue. If necessary, use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe away the remains.
Re-Oiling
To keep the seasoning layer healthy, a light coat of oil after each use will help maintain that non-stick surface.
What to Avoid
- Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubbing pads that might strip away your seasoning.
- Don’t let food stay on the surface for extended periods, as it can ruin your season.
Common Questions About Seasoning Your Blackstone Griddle
While this guide covers the primary aspects of seasoning, you may still have some lingering questions. Common inquiries include:
- How often should I season my Blackstone griddle?
It’s advisable to season your griddle periodically, especially if you notice food starting to stick during cooking.
- What happens if my griddle rusts?
If your griddle does rust, sand down the rusted areas, clean, and re-season your griddle using the steps outlined above.
Conclusion
Properly seasoning your Blackstone 22 inch griddle isn’t just a step; it’s an investment in your cooking experience. By taking the time to clean, oil, and heat your griddle correctly, you’ll be rewarded with superior cooking performance and mouth-watering flavors. Remember that with each meal, you’re building flavor and character into your beloved griddle. So go ahead, fire it up, and unleash your inner chef!
By following this detailed guide on how to season your Blackstone griddle, you’ll enjoy years of delicious meals while ensuring your griddle stays in tip-top shape. Happy cooking!
What is the best way to season my Blackstone 22 Inch Griddle?
To season your Blackstone griddle, start by cleaning the surface with water and a grill brush to remove any manufacturing residue. Dry it thoroughly, then apply a thin layer of high smoke point oil, such as canola or flaxseed oil, evenly across the cooking surface. It’s important to avoid over-applying oil as this can lead to a sticky surface.
Next, preheat the griddle to a high temperature for about 15-20 minutes until the oil begins to smoke. This high heat allows the oil to polymerize, creating a non-stick surface. After it cools, repeat the process a couple of times to build up a strong seasoning layer, which enhances both the cooking performance and the durability of your griddle.
How often should I season my griddle?
The frequency of seasoning your Blackstone griddle largely depends on how often you use it. If you use your griddle frequently, seasoning it every few uses is ideal. Regular use helps maintain the seasoning, but if you notice that food starts sticking or the surface looks dull, it’s time to re-season.
For users who occasionally use their griddle, a good practice is to season it every few months. Pay attention to the surface: if it appears scratched or discolored, those are signs that re-seasoning is necessary. Maintaining the seasoning will not only enhance your cooking experience but also prolong the life of your griddle.
Can I use soap to clean my seasoned griddle?
It’s generally not recommended to use soap on a seasoned griddle, as this can strip away the seasoning layer you’ve built up. Instead, after each cooking session, let the griddle cool slightly, then wipe it down with a paper towel or a soft cloth to remove food residue. If necessary, you can use a small amount of water and a scraper for stubborn bits.
If a deeper clean is required, you can use some coarse salt and a paper towel to scrub the surface. This method helps to clean the griddle without damaging the seasoning. After cleaning, always remember to apply a thin layer of oil to maintain the protective seasoning layer.
What type of oil is best for seasoning?
High smoke point oils are the best choice for seasoning your Blackstone griddle. Examples include canola oil, flaxseed oil, grapeseed oil, or peanut oil. These oils can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down, which is crucial for creating a durable, non-stick surface.
It’s advisable to avoid using oils with low smoke points, such as olive oil, as they can lead to a sticky residue and ineffective seasoning. Always opt for oils that you are comfortable using for cooking, ensuring they are applied in appropriate amounts during the seasoning process.
Can I use aluminum foil on my griddle during seasoning?
Yes, you can use aluminum foil on your griddle during the seasoning process. Some users choose to place a layer of aluminum foil on the surface to help distribute the heat evenly and absorb any excess oil. This technique can help when you’re doing multiple layers of seasoning.
However, it is crucial to remove the foil after the seasoning process. Prolonged use of aluminum foil can lead to the buildup of residues that may affect the seasoning layer, so enjoy the benefits during the initial seasoning but avoid using it for everyday cooking scenarios.
What should I do if my griddle gets rusty?
If your Blackstone griddle gets rusty, it’s vital to act immediately to restore its surface. Start by scraping off the rust with a metal scraper or steel wool. Once you’ve removed the rust, clean the surface thoroughly with water and a mild detergent to eliminate any debris.
After cleaning, dry the griddle completely and re-season it. Apply a thin layer of high smoke point oil, preheat it as you would during the traditional seasoning process, and allow the polymerization to occur. With proper care and regular maintenance, you can prevent rust from returning in the future.