Cooking enthusiasts and BBQ aficionados know that a good griddle is an essential addition to their culinary toolkit. The Blackstone griddle stands out as a popular choice due to its versatility and large cooking surface. However, to achieve the best cooking results and longevity of this outdoor cooking appliance, one crucial maintenance step is seasoning. In this article, we will dive deep into the question: when do you season a Blackstone griddle?
What Is Seasoning and Why Is It Important?
To start, let’s clarify what seasoning is. Seasoning a griddle involves coating it with a layer of oil that is heated to create a non-stick surface. This not only helps in preventing food from sticking but also protects the metal from rust and corrosion.
Key Benefits of Seasoning Your Blackstone Griddle:
– Enhanced Flavor: A well-seasoned griddle can help infuse food with a delicious, smoky flavor.
– Non-stick Surface: Regular seasoning creates a natural non-stick layer that makes cooking and cleaning a breeze.
– Durability: Proper seasoning procedures can extend the life of your griddle by preventing rust and wear.
– Improved Cooking Quality: When the griddle is properly seasoned, heat distribution becomes even, leading to perfectly cooked meals.
When Should You Season Your Blackstone Griddle?
Understanding when to season your Blackstone griddle is key to maintaining its performance over time. Here’s a detailed breakdown of when to season.
1. Before First Use
The very first thing you should do before using your Blackstone griddle is to season it. New griddles often have a factory coating that isn’t suitable for cooking. This will protect the griddle during shipping but needs to be removed.
- Clean the Surface: Start by washing the griddle with soap and water to remove any manufacturing residue. A gentle scour with a nylon scrubber can help in this step.
- Dry Thoroughly: After washing, dry the griddle completely to prevent moisture from causing rust.
- Apply Oil: Use a high smoke point oil (such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or even flaxseed oil) to season the entire cooking surface. Make sure to apply a thin, even layer.
2. After Every Use
To maintain your griddle’s non-stick surface and overall quality, seasoning after every use is highly recommended. Here’s how to do it briefly:
- Clean the Griddle: Scrape off any food remnants while the griddle is still warm. This helps in maintaining the seasoned layer.
- Heat the Griddle: Heat the surface to a medium-high temperature.
- Apply Oil: After turning off the heat, apply a light coat of oil while it’s warm. Let it sit for a few moments before wiping off any excess.
3. Periodically Based on Use
In addition to seasoning before first use and after each cook, there are times when you should season your griddle more thoroughly based on frequency of use and cooking types.
- Heavy Use: If you’re using your griddle several times a week or for high-heat cooking, consider seasoning it weekly.
- Rust or Damage: If you notice any signs of rust or scratches in the non-stick surface, it’s time for a full re-seasoning, which involves removing the existing layer and starting fresh.
How to Season Your Blackstone Griddle: Step by Step Guide
Proper seasoning can be broken down into a few simple yet effective steps.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Make sure you have the following items ready before you start the seasoning process:
- Scraper or spatula
- High smoke point cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or flaxseed)
- Paper towels or a clean cloth
- Heat-resistant gloves or a long-handled spatula
Step 2: Clean the Cooking Surface
Cleaning the surface of your griddle is essential for effective seasoning.
- Heat it Up: Turn the griddle on to medium-high heat to loosen any stuck remnants.
- Scrape It Down: Once heated, use your scraper to remove any food particles or debris.
- Rinse and Dry: Turn the griddle off, let it cool, rinse it with warm soapy water, and dry it thoroughly.
Step 3: Apply Oil Generously
Once the surface is clean and dry, it’s time to layer on the oil.
- Use a Paper Towel: Dab a paper towel in your chosen oil.
- Apply Evenly: Use long strokes to evenly spread the oil over the entire cooking surface. Ensure you reach the edges as well.
Step 4: Heat the Griddle
With the oil applied, it’s crucial to heat the surface.
- Crank It Up: Turn the heat back to medium-high and let the oil heat up.
- Watch for Smoke: You’ll see the oil start to smoke. This is a good sign, as it indicates that the seasoning process is occurring. Allow it to smoke for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Wipe Excess Oil
After thoroughly heating the griddle and allowing the oil to season:
- Let It Cool: Turn off the heat and let the griddle cool completely.
- Wipe Down: Using a clean paper towel, wipe away any excess oil. An adequately seasoned griddle should not drip oil.
Step 6: Repeat if Necessary
If your griddle appears uneven or still has spots that seem bare, consider repeating the oil application and heating process until you’re satisfied with the seasoning.
Signs That Your Griddle Needs Seasoning
It’s essential to keep an eye out for cues that your griddle is past due for a good seasoning.
- Food Sticking: If you notice food sticking to the surface more than usual, it’s a sign to re-season.
- Discoloration: A griddle with uneven coloration or rusty patches indicates that it’s time to bring back that seasoning.
Tips for Maintaining Your Blackstone Griddle
Once you’ve seasoned your Blackstone griddle, maintaining it is necessary for longevity and cooking performance.
1. Use the Right Utensils
Always use non-metal utensils to avoid scratching the seasoned surface. Opt for wooden or silicone spatulas.
2. Avoid High-Acidity Foods
Cooking highly acidic foods like tomatoes or vinegar-based sauces can erode the seasoning. Limit their use or season after.
3. Store Properly
If your griddle is stored outdoors, consider using a cover to protect it from moisture and weather elements.
Conclusion
In conclusion, seasoning your Blackstone griddle is a pivotal maintenance task that should be part of your cooking routine. By understanding when to season, how to do it effectively, and recognizing signs of wear, you can ensure that your griddle remains a reliable companion in your culinary adventures. Proper seasoning not only enhances the cooking experience but also adds longevity to your cooking equipment. Remember, a well-seasoned griddle is the key to achieving delicious, restaurant-quality meals right in your backyard!
What is the best time to season my Blackstone griddle?
The best time to season your Blackstone griddle is right before its first use and then periodically after regular usage. A new griddle should always be seasoned to create a non-stick surface that also protects against rust and enhances durability. This initial seasoning can significantly improve your cooking experience and results from the very start.
In addition to the initial seasoning, it’s advisable to re-season your griddle after extensive use, especially if you notice food starting to stick or the surface looking dull. A good guideline is to season after every 5-10 uses or whenever you clean the griddle thoroughly, depending on how often you cook on it. By maintaining this routine, you can ensure that your griddle remains in optimal condition.
How do I know when my griddle needs to be seasoned?
You can tell that your Blackstone griddle needs to be seasoned when you notice a few key indicators. Firstly, if food starts to stick to the surface more than usual, this is a sign that the non-stick layer is wearing off. Additionally, if the surface looks dull or has light discoloration, it indicates that the seasoning is wearing thin and may need a fresh layer of oil.
Another important sign is if you notice any rust spots, which indicate that the protective layer has been compromised. Regularly inspecting your griddle will help you spot these signs early. By addressing these issues promptly with a new layer of seasoning, you can restore its performance and prolong the life of your cooking surface.
What materials do I need to season my Blackstone griddle?
To season your Blackstone griddle, you will need a few essential materials. Primarily, you will need a high-smoke point oil, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or flaxseed oil. These oils are ideal because they can withstand the high temperatures required during the seasoning process without burning, ensuring a smooth, durable layer.
In addition to oil, you will need some tools such as a paper towel or an old rag for spreading the oil evenly across the surface. A metal spatula can also be handy to scrape off any food debris before seasoning. Lastly, a heat-resistant glove is advisable for handling the griddle at high temperatures to prevent burns and ensure safety.
Can I season my griddle indoors?
Seasoning your Blackstone griddle indoors is generally not recommended due to the high smoke generated during the process. When you apply oil and heat it to the necessary temperature, it can create significant smoke, which is not ideal for indoor cooking environments and can trigger smoke alarms. It’s best to carry out this process outdoors where ventilation won’t be an issue.
Moreover, outdoor seasoning allows you to avoid any mess and makes it easier to manage smoke without worrying about damaging your home. If you must season indoors due to circumstances, ensure you have ample ventilation and be prepared for a lot of smoke. However, seasoning outdoors is always the preferred and safest option.
How long does the seasoning process take?
The seasoning process for your Blackstone griddle typically takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on how thoroughly you want to coat the surface. After applying a thin layer of oil, you’ll need to preheat the griddle until the oil begins to smoke. This smoking indicates that the oil is breaking down and bonding to the metal, creating the necessary non-stick surface.
After the initial layer smokes away, you should allow the griddle to cool slightly before applying additional layers if desired. Ideally, applying 2-3 layers will ensure a robust non-stick finish. The key is to allow each layer to fully heat and bond before applying the next, which can take a little extra time but greatly enhances the griddle’s performance.
What should I avoid when seasoning my Blackstone griddle?
When seasoning your Blackstone griddle, there are several things you should avoid to ensure the best results. First, avoid using oils with low smoke points, such as olive oil or butter, as they can burn and create a sticky surface instead of a non-stick one. Stick to oils specifically recommended for high-temperature cooking to ensure a durable finish.
You should also avoid applying thick layers of oil, as this can result in uneven seasoning and may lead to a sticky residue. Instead, start with a thin, even layer that fully coats the surface. Additionally, avoid seasoning in a confined space where smoke can accumulate and potentially trigger alarms or cause discomfort.
Is it necessary to season my griddle every time I cook?
No, it is not necessary to season your Blackstone griddle every time you cook, but maintaining it regularly is crucial. A good practice is to season your griddle after every few uses or after thorough cleaning sessions. This approach allows you to build a solid non-stick seasoning layer while avoiding over-seasoning, which can create a gummy surface if not done correctly.
It is beneficial to wipe down the surface with a light coat of oil after cooking, especially if you have cooked foods that tend to stick, like eggs or pancakes. This simple maintenance step can help preserve the seasoning between deep cleaning and full seasoning procedures, ensuring your griddle remains effective for a long time.