The Blackstone 36 griddle has become a favorite among outdoor cooking enthusiasts for its versatility, durability, and ability to deliver mouthwatering meals. However, to get the most out of your griddle, seasoning it properly is crucial. This comprehensive guide will delve into how to season your Blackstone 36 griddle, ensuring it remains in top condition while enhancing the flavors of all your grilled dishes.
Understanding the Importance of Seasoning
Before we dive into the steps of seasoning your Blackstone 36 griddle, it’s vital to understand why seasoning is important. Seasoning creates a natural non-stick surface, protects the griddle from rust, and enhances the flavors of your dishes.
When you season your griddle, you’re creating a layer of polymerized oil on the cooking surface. This layer not only prevents food from sticking but also develops a rich, dark patina over time, contributing to the griddle’s distinct flavor profile.
What You Will Need to Season Your Griddle
To effectively season your Blackstone 36 griddle, gather the following items:
- Blackstone 36 griddle
- Food-grade oil (flaxseed oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil)
- Paper towels or a clean cloth
- Griddle scraper (optional but recommended)
- Heat-resistant gloves
- Spray bottle (optional)
With these tools and ingredients in hand, you’re ready to embark on the seasoning process.
Preparing Your Griddle for Seasoning
Before you begin seasoning, it’s crucial to prepare your griddle properly. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Clean the Griddle Surface
Start with a clean slate. Remove any debris or leftover food particles from previous cooking sessions. Heat up your Blackstone griddle on high for about 10 minutes, allowing any residue to burn off.
Once it’s hot, use the scraper to gently remove any stuck-on food. After scraped, turn off the heat and let the griddle cool slightly. Then, take a paper towel or cloth to wipe the surface clean with a little water. Make sure to dry it thoroughly after cleaning.
2. Set the Griddle Temperature
For optimal seasoning, you should preheat your griddle to a high temperature of approximately 500°F (260°C). This temperature allows the oil to bond with the metal surface of the griddle effectively.
Use the heat setting on your Blackstone, ensuring it’s evenly distributed across the cooking surface. The griddle should be hot enough that a drop of water skitters across the surface before evaporating.
The Seasoning Process
Now that your griddle is clean and preheated, it’s time to proceed with the seasoning process. Follow these steps for optimal results.
3. Apply Oil Generously
Using a paper towel or cloth, apply a generous amount of your chosen food-grade oil to the cooking surface. You want to cover the entire surface evenly with a thin layer of oil. If you prefer, a spray bottle can be used for a more even application; just make sure to spread it out with a cloth afterward to avoid puddles.
4. Heat the Griddle
Once the oil is applied, heat the griddle on high for approximately 10-15 minutes. The oil will start to smoke as it reaches its smoke point; this is a good sign that the seasoning process is underway.
While heating, keep a close eye on the griddle to ensure it doesn’t overheat or catch fire. If the oil begins to smoke too excessively, turn down the heat slightly.
5. Wipe Off Excess Oil
After the griddle has heated with the oil for 10 to 15 minutes, turn off the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Wipe off any excess oil with a clean paper towel. The goal is to leave a thin and even coating that secures the seasoning process without pooling or dripping.
6. Repeat the Process
For best results, repeat the oil application and heating process at least 2 to 3 times. Each layer of oil will bond with the griddle surface, improving its non-stick properties over time. A well-seasoned griddle can take anywhere from 2 to 8 layers, depending on your usage and maintenance habits.
Caring for Your Seasoned Griddle
Once your Blackstone 36 griddle is seasoned, you need to maintain it correctly for long-lasting results. Here’s how to care for your freshly seasoned griddle:
1. Clean After Each Use
After cooking, you should clean the griddle while it’s still warm. Use the scraper to remove food particles and, if necessary, wipe it down with a wet cloth. Avoid harsh soaps or abrasive cleaners, as these can strip away the seasoning.
2. Re-season as Needed
If you notice food starting to stick or if the surface looks dull, re-season the griddle. This may be necessary after heavy usage or if you’ve washed the griddle more aggressively than advised.
3. Store Your Griddle Properly
When storing your griddle, keep it covered to protect it from dirt and moisture. If you live in a particularly humid climate, consider putting a thin layer of oil on the surface before covering it to prevent rust formation.
Tips for Successful Griddle Seasoning
To ensure the best results while seasoning your Blackstone 36 griddle, consider these additional tips:
Join the Community
Get involved in online forums or local cooking groups where fellow Blackstone griddle enthusiasts share tips and tricks. The community can provide valuable insights and support as you season and cook on your griddle.
Keep an Eye on Weather Conditions
Outdoor griddling can be affected by weather conditions. When possible, season your griddle in dry, calm weather to avoid moisture and wind, which can affect the seasoning process.
Experiment with Oils
While flaxseed oil, canola oil, and vegetable oil are recommended, don’t be afraid to try out different oils to see what works best for your cooking style. Each oil has unique properties and flavor profiles, allowing you to customize your griddle’s seasoning.
Advanced Seasoning Techniques
For seasoned griddlers looking to perfect their craft, consider trying these advanced techniques:
1. Use the Right Amount of Oil
Using too much oil can lead to a sticky surface, while too little oil will not provide adequate protection. Aim for a thin, even coat, adjusting as necessary based on your experience and results.
2. Heat Control
Learn how to control the heat across different sections of the griddle. This will allow you to season and cook efficiently, especially when handling various types of food simultaneously.
3. Long-Term Seasoning
For those who cook regularly, consider a long-term seasoning strategy. Some enthusiasts condition their griddles with layers of oil over several cooking sessions to develop a robust, well-used surface that enhances flavors over time.
Conclusion
Seasoning your Blackstone 36 griddle is essential for achieving a superior cooking experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you will not only extend the life of your griddle but also enhance the quality of the meals you prepare. Remember that proper maintenance and care are just as vital as the initial seasoning process.
Keep practicing your griddling skills, experiment with different recipes, and embrace the joy of outdoor cooking. With a well-seasoned Blackstone griddle in your arsenal, you’ll be well on your way to producing delicious meals that will impress your family and friends alike! Happy cooking!
What is the best method for seasoning my Blackstone 36 griddle?
The best method for seasoning your Blackstone 36 griddle involves cleaning the surface thoroughly before applying the oil. Start by turning the griddle on to a medium heat and allowing it to preheat for about 10-15 minutes. Use a scraper or a grill brush to remove any debris or leftover food particles from previous cooking sessions. Once the griddle is clean, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly.
After the surface has cooled a bit, apply a thin layer of a high-smoke point oil, such as canola, flaxseed, or grapeseed oil, evenly across the surface using a paper towel or cloth. Turn the heat back on to medium-high for approximately 30 minutes until the oil begins to smoke. This process creates a non-stick layer on the surface and helps protect the griddle from rust while enhancing the flavor of your meals.
How often should I season my Blackstone 36 griddle?
The frequency of seasoning your Blackstone 36 griddle largely depends on how often you use it and the types of foods you cook. As a general rule, it’s a good practice to season your griddle after every few uses, particularly if you notice the surface is becoming dull, sticky, or food is starting to stick. Regular seasoning will maintain the non-stick surface and keep the griddle in excellent condition.
In addition to regular use, consider re-seasoning your griddle after cooking particularly greasy foods or high-acid foods like tomatoes or citrus, as these can strip the seasonings from the surface. After intense cooking sessions, when food residue remains, it’s beneficial to wipe down the griddle and apply a fresh layer of oil to keep everything in optimal condition.
Can I use cooking spray to season my Blackstone griddle?
While some people use cooking spray for quick maintenance, it is not the best option for seasoning your Blackstone griddle. Cooking sprays often contain additives and propellants that can leave a residue on the griddle surface, which may lead to stickiness and uneven seasoning. For effective seasoning, it’s recommended to use pure oils that can withstand high heat, such as avocado, grapeseed, or flaxseed oils.
If you want to apply oil easily, consider using a high-quality oil that you can pour directly onto the griddle surface. Use a paper towel to spread it evenly and thinly across the cooking surface. This method provides a more effective seasoning layer and ensures a long-lasting non-stick finish compared to the use of cooking sprays.
What should I do if my griddle starts to rust?
If you notice rust forming on your Blackstone 36 griddle, it’s essential to take action quickly to restore it to its former glory. Start by scrubbing the rusted areas with a wire brush or scraper to remove as much rust as possible. Afterward, wash the griddle with soapy water and dry it thoroughly to prevent further rusting. It’s crucial to address any moisture immediately after cleaning or cooking.
Once cleaned, reapply a fresh layer of high-smoke point oil and heat the griddle to help seal the surface again. Consider re-seasoning the entire griddle, even if only a small section is affected, to ensure an even protective layer across the cooking surface. Moving forward, make sure to store your griddle in a dry place and apply a light coat of oil after each use to prevent rust from forming again.
Does seasoning affect the flavor of the food cooked on the griddle?
Yes, seasoning your Blackstone griddle can significantly influence the flavor of the food you cook on it. The seasoning process creates a non-stick surface that helps to enhance the browning and overall cooking quality of the food. A well-seasoned griddle allows food to sear properly, which can result in improved taste and texture. Additionally, the oils used in the seasoning process can contribute subtle flavors to the food as they infuse into the cooking surface.
Moreover, seasoning helps create a protective layer that prevents food from sticking and burning. It preserves the natural flavors of the ingredients you are using, allowing for a more vibrant and delicious outcome. Therefore, maintaining a properly seasoned griddle is essential for not only cooking performance but also for elevating the taste of your meals.
Is it safe to cook on a Blackstone griddle that has not been seasoned?
Cooking on a Blackstone griddle that has not been seasoned is not recommended. Without seasoning, the cooking surface may be prone to food sticking, making it difficult to cook and flip items smoothly. Additionally, an unseasoned griddle is more susceptible to rust and corrosion, which can lead to potential food contamination. Therefore, it’s essential to season your griddle before using it for cooking.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to cook without seasoning, it’s crucial to apply a sufficient amount of oil to the surface before cooking to improve non-stick properties temporarily. However, this is just a short-term solution, and you should make it a priority to properly season your griddle to ensure optimal cooking performance and food safety.