How To Season A Blackstone Griddle
When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission with no extra cost to you.
Are you ready to take your outdoor cooking to the next level?
Get ready to transform your Blackstone griddle into a sizzling powerhouse of flavor!
Seasoning your griddle is like giving it a superpower – it enhances the taste of your food and creates a non-stick surface that’s a joy to cook on.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to season your Blackstone griddle like a pro.
So grab your spatula and let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways
- Cleaning the griddle thoroughly before seasoning is important to remove excess grease, food residue, dirt, and grime.
- Choosing the right seasoning oil, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, flaxseed oil, or avocado oil, is crucial for enhancing flavor and creating a non-stick surface.
- Applying the seasoning oil by rubbing it onto the griddle surface helps prevent rust, corrosion, and creates a protective layer.
- Heating and curing the griddle at high temperatures maximize its performance and create a perfect bonding surface for the oil.
Preparing the Griddle for Seasoning
First, you’ll want to clean the griddle thoroughly before seasoning it. Cleaning the griddle is an essential step in preparing it for seasoning. Start by scraping off any excess grease or food residue using a spatula or scraper tool. Next, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface, ensuring that all dirt and grime are removed.
It’s important to remove any rust or corrosion as well, as this can affect the seasoning process. Once the griddle is clean, it’s time to focus on the importance of proper seasoning. Seasoning not only enhances the flavor of your food but also creates a protective layer on the griddle’s surface, preventing it from rusting and improving its non-stick properties.
Proper seasoning involves applying a thin layer of oil to the griddle and heating it until it smokes. This process helps to create a polymerized layer that makes the griddle more durable and easier to clean. By cleaning the griddle thoroughly and ensuring proper seasoning, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying perfectly cooked meals on your blackstone griddle.
Choosing the Right Seasoning Oil
Additionally, it’s important to choose the right oil for seasoning your Blackstone griddle. The type of oil you use can affect the flavor and performance of your griddle. Here are the benefits of using different types of oils for griddle seasoning:
-
Vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is a popular choice for seasoning a griddle. It has a high smoke point, which means it can withstand high temperatures without burning. It also helps create a non-stick surface and provides a neutral flavor to your food.
-
Canola oil: Canola oil is another great option for griddle seasoning. It has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it ideal for high-heat cooking. Canola oil also helps create a durable non-stick surface on your griddle.
-
Flaxseed oil: Flaxseed oil is known for its high smoke point and its ability to form a strong bond with the griddle surface. It creates a hard, long-lasting seasoning layer that enhances the flavor of your food. However, flaxseed oil can be more expensive and requires multiple applications for optimal results.
-
Avocado oil: Avocado oil is a healthy choice for griddle seasoning. It has a high smoke point, a mild flavor, and is rich in monounsaturated fats. Avocado oil also helps create a non-stick surface and adds a subtle nutty taste to your dishes.
Choosing the best seasoning oil for your Blackstone griddle depends on your personal preferences and cooking style. Experiment with different oils to find the one that suits your needs and enhances the flavor of your favorite dishes.
Applying the Seasoning Oil
To apply the seasoning oil, simply pour a small amount onto a clean cloth and rub it onto the surface of your griddle.
Using different types of oils for seasoning can provide various benefits to your blackstone griddle. One popular choice is flaxseed oil, which forms a durable seasoning layer that helps prevent rust and creates a non-stick surface.
Another option is vegetable oil, which is readily available and can also create a protective layer on the griddle.
Seasoning your blackstone griddle offers several benefits. Firstly, it helps to prevent rust and corrosion, extending the lifespan of your griddle.
Secondly, it creates a non-stick surface, making it easier to cook and clean.
Lastly, seasoning enhances the flavor of your food by adding a delicious, smoky taste.
Heating and Curing the Griddle
When heating and curing your griddle, you want to ensure that it reaches the recommended temperature before applying any oil. This step is crucial for caring for the griddle and maximizing its performance.
Here are three important things to keep in mind during the heating and curing process:
-
Preheat the griddle: Before seasoning, preheat the griddle on high heat for about 10-15 minutes. This will help remove any manufacturing residues and prepare the surface for seasoning.
-
Monitor the temperature: Use a thermometer to check the griddle’s temperature. It should reach around 400°F (200°C) to create a perfect bonding surface for the oil.
-
Allow the griddle to cool: Once the griddle has reached the recommended temperature, turn off the heat and let it cool down naturally. This will ensure that the oil gets absorbed properly, creating a protective layer that prevents rust and enhances the griddle’s non-stick properties.
Maintaining and Re-seasoning the Griddle
It’s important to regularly clean and oil your griddle to maintain its performance and prevent rust.
To maintain that beautiful griddle shine, start by scraping off any food debris with a griddle scraper while the surface is still warm.
Next, use a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap to clean the griddle surface thoroughly. Rinse with clean water and dry completely.
Once the griddle is clean, apply a thin layer of cooking oil or seasoning oil. Use a paper towel to spread the oil evenly across the surface, making sure to cover all areas.
This will help prevent rust buildup and maintain the griddle’s non-stick properties.
Remember to repeat this process after each use to keep your griddle in top shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of seasoning a blackstone griddle?
Seasoning a blackstone griddle offers numerous benefits. It creates a non-stick surface, prevents rust and corrosion, enhances flavor, and improves cooking performance. Proper griddle maintenance, including seasoning, is crucial for optimal results and longevity of your griddle.
Can I use regular cooking oil for seasoning the griddle?
Yes, you can use regular cooking oil to season your griddle. However, for the best results, consider alternative seasoning methods and opt for oils with a higher smoke point like avocado or flaxseed oil.
How often should I season my blackstone griddle?
To maintain the quality and performance of your Blackstone griddle, it is recommended to season it after every use. Use the best oils for seasoning, such as flaxseed oil or vegetable oil, and clean the griddle regularly to prevent buildup.
Can I season a blackstone griddle in the oven?
Yes, you can season a Blackstone griddle in the oven. It is one of the alternative seasoning techniques. Simply preheat the oven to 450°F, apply oil to the griddle surface, and bake it for about an hour.
How long does it take to heat and cure the griddle during the seasoning process?
To heat and cure your griddle during the seasoning process, it typically takes about 20 minutes. While this may seem like a long time, it’s crucial for ensuring a well-seasoned and non-stick surface.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the complete guide on how to season your Blackstone griddle. By following these steps, you can ensure that your griddle is properly seasoned and ready to cook delicious meals.
Now, you might be thinking, ‘But won’t all that oil make my food greasy?’ While it’s true that seasoning requires the use of oil, the key is to use the right kind of oil and apply it in the right way. This will create a non-stick surface that enhances the flavor of your food without adding excessive grease.
So don’t let this misconception hold you back from seasoning your griddle and enjoying the benefits it brings. Happy cooking!