If you have a Blackstone griddle, you know it’s one of the most versatile cooking tools. Whether you’re using it to grill burgers and hot dogs or make pancakes and eggs, a Blackstone griddle can do so much more than traditional grills. But before you can get started with all the amazing cooking possibilities, you need to season your griddle first. Seasoning your Blackstone Griddle is essential in keeping your griddle in top condition for years to come.
In this article, we’ll give you an overview of how to season your Blackstone Griddle properly so that it’s ready for all your favorite recipes. We’ll cover what materials and supplies you’ll need, how to apply the seasoning, and how often. So read on to find out more about how to season a Blackstone Griddle!
What is Seasoning?
I have always been curious about the term “seasoning.” What exactly does it mean? Why is it so important in cooking? These questions prompted me to delve deeper into the world of seasoning, and I have discovered some fascinating information that I can’t wait to share with you.
First things first, what exactly is seasoning? Seasoning refers to using herbs, spices, and other flavorings to enhance food taste. It is a crucial component of any dish, as it can transform a bland and boring meal into a flavorful and exciting culinary experience.
Countless seasonings are available, each with its unique taste and aroma. Some of the most common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic, onion, cumin, oregano, paprika, and rosemary. These seasonings can be used individually or in combination with one another to create a wide range of flavors.
But why is seasoning so important in cooking? The answer lies in our taste buds. Our taste buds are responsible for detecting the five basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami. Seasonings work to enhance these tastes, making them more pronounced and enjoyable. For example, a pinch of salt can bring out the sweetness in a dish, while a dash of paprika can add a smoky and slightly spicy flavor.
In addition to enhancing taste, seasonings also play a role in food preservation. Many seasonings, such as salt, have antibacterial properties that can help prevent spoilage and prolong the shelf life of food.
There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to using seasonings. First, it’s important to use them in moderation. Too much seasoning can overpower the dish’s flavors and make it unpalatable. It’s always better to start with a small amount and add more if needed.
Additionally, it’s important to consider the type of dish you’re making and the flavors that will complement it. For example, a spicy chili may benefit from adding cumin and chili powder, while a delicate fish dish may better suit the subtle flavors of lemon and dill.
How To Season A Blackstone Griddle?
Before you fire up your griddle, it’s important to season it properly to ensure that your food cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the surface. So, how do you season a Blackstone griddle? It’s quite simple and only requires a few steps.
- Step 1: Clean the Griddle. Begin by cleaning the griddle thoroughly with warm, soapy water and a scrub brush. Rinse it well and dry it completely with a clean towel.
- Step 2: Apply Oil. Next, apply a thin layer of oil to the griddle surface. You can use any high smoke points oil, such as vegetable, canola, or grapeseed. Avoid using butter or low-smoke point oils, which will smoke and burn on the surface.
- Step 3: Heat the Griddle. Turn on the griddle to high heat, around 400-450 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow it to heat up for 10-15 minutes or until the oil smokes.
- Step 4: Spread the Oil. Spread the oil evenly over the griddle’s surface using a clean, lint-free cloth or paper towel. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges and corners.
- Step 5: Let it Cool. Please turn off the griddle and allow it to cool completely. Once it’s cool, wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Step 6: Repeat. Repeat this process 2-3 times or until the griddle has a dark, blackened surface. This will help to create a non-stick surface that will prevent your food from sticking to the griddle.
Read more:
What Are The Benefits Of Using Blackstone Griddle Seasoning And Cast Iron Conditioner?
First off, let’s talk about the Blackstone griddle seasoning. This seasoning is designed for griddles, which means it’s perfect for anyone who loves cooking breakfast or burgers. The seasoning is made with a blend of spices that enhance the flavor of your food and help prevent sticking. When I use this seasoning, my eggs, and pancakes come out perfectly cooked with a delicious flavor that I can’t get with another seasoning.
Another benefit of using Blackstone griddle seasoning is that it helps protect your griddle from rust and corrosion. When you cook on a griddle, you expose it to moisture, which can cause it to rust over time. But with this seasoning, you can protect your griddle and extend its lifespan. And since it’s made with all-natural ingredients, you can feel good about using it on your cooking surface.
Now let’s talk about cast iron conditioner. If you’re like me, you love cooking with cast iron. But one of the downsides of cast iron is that it can be tough to clean and maintain. That’s where the cast iron conditioner comes in. This product is designed to help clean and protect your cast iron, making it easier to use and more durable.
The cast iron conditioner is made with a blend of oils and waxes that help create a non-stick surface on your cast iron. This means your food won’t stick, and you won’t have to spend as much time scrubbing your pan after cooking. And since it helps protect your cast iron from rust and corrosion, you can feel confident that your pan will last for years.
Overall, I’ve found that using Blackstone griddle seasoning and cast iron conditioner has made a big difference in my cooking. These products are easy to use, effective, and affordable. And since they’re made with all-natural ingredients, I feel good about using them in my kitchen.
Best Oil to Season Griddle
When seasoning a griddle, the oil used can greatly affect the final result. The best oils for seasoning a griddle are those with a high smoke point, which means they can withstand high heat without breaking down and producing a burnt taste.
Some of the best oils for seasoning a griddle include avocado oil, grapeseed oil, canola oil, coconut oil, peanut oil, olive oil, and sunflower oil. Each oil has a distinct flavor profile and can produce a non-stick coating on the griddle surface.
Ultimately, the choice of oil for seasoning a griddle comes down to personal preference and availability. Choosing a high-quality oil suitable for high-heat cooking is essential and will provide long-lasting results. A griddle can provide many years of enjoyable cooking experiences with proper seasoning and maintenance.
How to Clean a Blackstone Griddle?
Cleaning a Blackstone griddle can be daunting, but it can be done easily and effectively with a few simple steps. I have learned a thing or two about how to keep it clean and maintained. So, if you are looking for a step-by-step guide on how to clean your Blackstone griddle, you have come to the right place.
- Start with a soapy wash: Clean your new Blackstone griddle with hot water and soap to remove any dirt or debris from manufacturing and shipping. Rinse it thoroughly afterward and dry it completely before use or storage to avoid rust.
- Season your griddle: Season your Blackstone griddle to create a stick-resistant surface for your food. Add 2-3 tablespoons of oil to your griddle and rub it onto every inch of the surface using a dish towel. Turn the heat on all burners until the oil starts smoking, then repeat the process twice.
- Use a metal spatula to remove food particles: After your griddle has cooled down, gently remove food particles from the surface.
- Use non-damaging scour pads or a pumice grill stone: If stubborn bits of food are stuck to the griddle, use non-damaging scour pads or a pumice grill stone to remove them. Avoid using a wire brush as it may leave metal bits on the griddle.
- Loosen stuck food particles with warm water: Warm water can help loosen stuck food particles. Apply a few squirts of warm water to the griddle and use a non-metallic scrubber to remove them.
- Wash with dishwashing solution and hot water: Pour dishwashing solution into a bucket of hot water and dip a non-metal scrub into it. Scrub the griddle until clean, ensuring water isn’t dripping elsewhere.
- Dry and re-season: Dry the griddle with a microfiber towel and apply a layer of seasoning with a paper towel. Ensure that there are no seasoning puddles on the griddle’s surface.
Note:
- Clean after every use: Wipe down and re-season your Blackstone griddle to prevent buildup from getting in the way of your food and ensure you won’t get any burn marks.
- Avoid strong soap: While gentle soap can help dislodge grime, avoid using anything that works overtime on grease as it may strip the seasoning. Stick with clear dishwashing soap without dyes.
- Please don’t wait to clean: It’s best not to let your Blackstone griddle sit long before cleaning it. Wipe it down and re-season it after every meal to ensure it lasts a lifetime.
What Are The Essential Items For Seasoning A Griddle?
A well-seasoned griddle ensures your food won’t stick and adds flavor and depth to your dishes. But what exactly are the essential items for seasoning a griddle? Let me break it down for you in a matter-of-fact way.
- Oil: Oil is the first and most important griddle seasoning item. You can use any oil you prefer, but I recommend using a high smoke points oil like vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil. These oils can withstand high temperatures without burning, which is crucial when griddle seasoning.
- Salt: While salt isn’t technically a seasoning, it’s an important component of the seasoning process. Sprinkling coarse salt on the griddle helps to remove any rust or debris and also helps to scrub away any stubborn food particles.
- Scraper: A good scraper is essential for getting rid of any food particles or debris on the griddle. Look for a scraper with a sturdy handle and a flat edge that can easily scrape away any residue.
- Paper towels are useful for wiping away any excess oil or salt from the griddle. Use a high-quality paper towel that won’t leave any residue behind.
- Heat: Last but not least, heat is crucial for seasoning a griddle. Preheat your griddle on high heat for at least 15 minutes before seasoning. This will help open up the metal’s pores and allow the oil to penetrate the surface.
How Do You Prepare The Griddle With A Soapy Cleanse Before Seasoning It?
Prepping the griddle with a soapy cleanse before seasoning it has several benefits. It helps remove any built-up grime or residue and ensures the surface is completely clean before the seasoning process begins. It also ensures that the seasoning process is successful, resulting in a non-stick cooking surface that repels water and prevents rust.
Before starting the cleaning process, gather all necessary materials. This will include a nonmetallic scrubber, dishwashing soap, warm water, and a microfiber towel. It’s important to wait until the Blackstone griddle cools down before cleaning it. Attempting to clean the griddle while it’s still hot can cause damage to the surface or result in injury.
- Apply Dishwashing Soap: Once the griddle has cooled down, apply a few drops of clear dishwashing soap into a small bowl filled with warm water. Stay away from soap that contains dyes or works aggressively on grease.
- Dip Nonmetallic Scrub: Dip a nonmetallic scrubber into the soapy solution and gently scrub the griddle’s surface. Be sure only to apply light pressure to avoid scraping or damaging the seasoning.
- Rinse with Warm Water: Rinse the griddle with warm water to remove any soap residue. It’s important to ensure that all soap is removed since it can impact the seasoning process.
- Dry with a Microfiber Towel: Use a microfiber towel to dry the griddle’s surface thoroughly. It’s important to ensure that there are no traces of moisture left on the surface.
- Apply a Thin Layer of Oil: Once the griddle is completely dry, apply a thin layer of oil to the surface. Use a paper towel to rub the oil onto every inch of the griddle. Then turn on all the burners and wait for the griddle to change color and smoke.
- Repeat the Seasoning Process: For the initial seasoning process, it’s best to repeat the oil application and smoking process two more times. This will ensure that the griddle has a protective layer that’ll ensure even heat distribution. After that, repeat the seasoning process once every few months or as necessary.
Why Do You Need To Use A Thin Layer Of Oil When Seasoning A Griddle?
Using a thin layer of oil when seasoning a griddle is essential to create a non-stick cooking surface. The oil helps to fill in microscopic rough parts on the metal’s surface, preventing food from getting stuck in small cracks and crevices. The thin layer of oil also protects the griddle’s surface from rust and corrosion. Without this layer of protection, water can penetrate the metal surface and cause rust to develop.
Choosing the right oil for seasoning is key to achieving a hard black surface on the griddle through polymerization. The heat transforms the oil into a protective layer that naturally wears out over time, requiring maintenance seasoning to be done periodically. By using a thin layer of oil during seasoning, you can ensure a smooth, non-stick surface and enhance the longevity of your griddle.
How Do You Choose The Right Oil For Seasoning A Griddle?
To choose the right oil for seasoning a griddle, looking for an oil with a high smoke point is important. This will prevent the oil from burning and leaving a sticky residue on the cooking surface. The best oils for seasoning a griddle include avocado oil, grapeseed oil, canola oil, coconut oil, peanut oil, olive oil, and sunflower oil.
When applied to the griddle’s cooking surface, these oils have high smoke points and can create a non-stick coating. Cleaning and seasoning the griddle after each use is also important to maintain its non-stickiness.
How Do I Know When My Blackstone Griddle Needs To Be Seasoned?
How often you need to season your griddle depends on how frequently you use it and how well you maintain it. Signs that your Blackstone Griddle needs seasoning include food sticking to the surface, flaking or rusting on the plate, and a lack of shine or gloss on the surface. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to re-season your griddle.
To prevent these issues from occurring, it’s recommended to season your griddle after every use and to clean it thoroughly with mild soap and warm water before each seasoning.
How Often Should You Re-Season Your Blackstone Griddle?
A Blackstone griddle is recommended to be re-seasoned as needed, which could range from once a month to once every six months, depending on usage and maintenance. Regularly seasoning the griddle helps maintain the non-stick surface, protect against rust, and ensure optimal cooking performance.
It is important to clean the griddle thoroughly before re-seasoning, as any remaining food particles or oils can negatively impact the seasoning process. Between uses, it is best to clean the griddle with water and a sturdy scraper and then add a thin coat of neutral cooking oil to ensure the seasoning layer stays intact.
How Many Times Should I Season My Blackstone Griddle Before It’s Ready To Use?
To get the griddle ready for use, it must undergo a thorough seasoning process involving four coats of oil. Once the griddle has become dark black and smooth, it indicates it is properly seasoned and ready to be used.
It is important to note that the griddle seasoning is essentially a hardened shell that lives on the griddle surface, and its life can be prolonged by following best practices after each use. While there is no specified time frame on how often a griddle needs to be seasoned, experts advise seasoning as often as needed to maintain the non-stick finish and protect the griddle from rust.
How to Store Your Blackstone Griddle
Here are some tips for storing your Blackstone Griddle:
- Clean your griddle thoroughly: Before storing it, ensure it is completely clean. Use warm water and soap to remove any food debris and grease. Dry it completely with a dish towel.
- Apply oil: Once your griddle is clean and dry, apply thin cooking oil to the surface. This will help prevent rust and keep your griddle in good condition.
- Cover it up: Invest in a good-quality cover for your griddle. This will help protect it from the elements and prevent dust and debris from settling on the surface.
- Store in a dry place: Make sure your griddle is stored in a dry place. If you’re storing it outdoors, ensure it is covered and protected from rain and other elements.
- Check it periodically: Even if your griddle is stored properly, it’s a good idea to check it periodically to ensure it is still in good condition. Check for rust or other signs of damage and address any issues promptly.
How Can You Protect The Blackstone Griddle From Rust?
First and foremost, it’s important to keep your griddle clean and dry. After each use, clean any excess grease or food particles with a scraper or spatula. Then, wipe down the surface with a damp cloth or paper towel. Once it’s clean, let it air dry completely before covering it.
Speaking of covering it, investing in a good quality cover is crucial to protect your griddle from the elements. Rain, snow, and humidity can all cause rust to form. A cover will also keep dust and debris from accumulating on the surface.
Another way to protect your griddle from rust is to season it regularly. This involves coating the surface with oil and heating it to high temperatures. The oil will create a protective layer that will prevent moisture from causing rust. To season your griddle, apply a thin layer of oil (vegetable oil or flaxseed oil work well) and let it heat up for about 15-20 minutes. Then, let it cool down and wipe off any excess oil.
If you do notice rust starting to form, don’t panic. You can still save your griddle with a little bit of elbow grease. First, use a scraper or steel wool to remove as much rust as possible. Then, use water and white vinegar to scrub away any remaining rust. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly before seasoning again.
What Are Some Tips For Creating A Non-Stick Surface On The Griddle?
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tips and tricks for creating a non-stick surface on my griddle, and I wanted to share them with you.
- Season your griddle: One of the easiest ways to create a non-stick surface on your griddle is to season it. To do this, you’ll want to apply a thin layer of oil to your griddle and heat it. Once it starts smoking, please turn off the heat and let it cool down. Repeat this process a few times, and you’ll have a well-seasoned griddle that will be naturally non-stick.
- Use the right cooking oil: When cooking on a griddle, the oil you use can make a big difference. You’ll want to use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil. These oils can withstand high temperatures without smoking or burning, which can ruin your non-stick surface.
- Don’t overcrowd your griddle: Another key to creating a non-stick surface on your griddle is to avoid overcrowding. Adding too much food to your griddle at once can create steam, making your food stick. Instead, cook in smaller batches and give your food enough space to cook evenly.
- Clean your griddle properly: Cleaning your griddle is essential for maintaining a non-stick surface. However, you’ll want to avoid using harsh cleaners or scrubbers, as they can damage your griddle. Instead, use a soft sponge or cloth and a mild detergent to clean your griddle after each use.
- Store your griddle properly: How you store, it can also affect its non-stick surface. You’ll want to store it dry, away from moisture and humidity. You may also want to cover it with a cloth or towel to protect it from dust and dirt.
FAQs
What Is The Importance Of Pre-Heating And Blackening The Blackstone Griddle?
Pre-heating and blackening the Blackstone griddle is paramount for creating a non-stick cooking surface and prolonging the appliance’s lifespan. By pre-heating the griddle on maximum heat for 10-15 minutes, the surface turns brown and creates a natural stick-resistant coating that is incredibly durable. This blackened surface prevents food from sticking and burning, making cooking easier and cleaning quicker. Blackening also brings more flavor to every meal as it helps lock in the taste of seared meat and veggies.
The one secret to remember is to only use a very thin layer of oil for each coat, as a thick layer of oil can lead to future chipping and a buildup of sticky gunk on the griddle plate. Therefore, pre-heating and blackening the Blackstone griddle creates a stick-resistant surface that is easy to clean, adds flavor to every dish, and prolongs the appliance’s life.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Blackstone Griddle Seasoning And Cast Iron Conditioner?
The seasoning of a Blackstone griddle is crucial to maintaining its durability and non-stick surface. By properly seasoning the griddle with oil and heat, a layer of glossy black is created that is impervious to sticky food and rust. This allows for easier cooking and maintenance of the griddle. Additionally, using a cast iron conditioner helps to protect the griddle’s surface from rust and extends its life.
The conditioner also helps maintain the griddle’s non-stick coating, ensuring that food doesn’t stick and that cleaning is easier. Overall, the benefits of using Blackstone griddle seasoning and cast iron conditioner are increased durability, easier cooking and maintenance, and an extended lifespan for the griddle.
What Is The Process Of Polymerization, And How Does It Help To Season The Griddle?
The polymerization process involves breaking down oil in high heat until its fatty acids oxidize and bind together into a new layer of molecules. This process creates a protective barrier between the environment and the griddle surface, resulting in a seasoned griddle that functions like a non-stick surface. Polymerization helps bond the oil to the griddle’s surface, creating a hard and durable layer that will last for a long time.
Polymerization plays a significant role in the season, ensuring that the Blackstone griddle has a longer lifespan and durability.
Can I Use Butter To Season My Blackstone Griddle?
It is not advisable to use butter to season a Blackstone Griddle. Butter has a smoking point of 300 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, which is lower than cooking oil which has a smoking point of 400 degrees and above. Seasoning a new flat-top grill requires burning oil at high temperatures until it reaches the smoke point to allow it to bond with the metallic cooktop. If heated at very high temperatures, butter reaches its smoke point too soon, and it does not make an effective bond with the griddle surface to create a thick, durable seasoning coat.
Greasing the griddle with butter before cooking is also not advisable since about 20% of butter is water, which evaporates, causing food to stick to the griddle surface.
Conclusion
In conclusion, seasoning a Blackstone Griddle is a simple process that requires patience and consistency. Following these steps regularly ensures that your griddle stays in top condition and always produces delicious meals. So, go ahead and fire up that griddle and start cooking up a storm!
Do you have any questions on how to season a Blackstone griddle? Let us know in the comments below.
References:
- https://blackstoneproducts.com/blogs/griddling-tips-tricks/how-to-take-care-of-your-griddle-complete-guide
- https://blackstoneproducts.com/blogs/griddling-tips-tricks/how-often-does-a-griddle-need-to-be-seasoned
- https://foodsguy.com/best-oils-for-seasoning-griddles/
Hey readers! Chip Holland here, and I’m a Manager of this website. My passion for writing about it only matches my passion for BBQ. Follow my blog for mouth-watering recipes, tips, and tricks for the perfect smoke, grill, and BBQ. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!