How To Season Your Blackstone Griddle Like A Professional: A Step-by-step Guide With Expert Tips
What To Know
- Once the smoking stops and the griddle turns a dark brown or black, turn off the heat and let it cool down completely.
- Apply a thin coat of oil to the surface and heat it up to medium heat for a few minutes.
- Cover it with a griddle cover or wrap it in a plastic bag to protect it from dust and moisture.
Seasoning a Blackstone griddle is a crucial step that enhances its performance, durability, and overall cooking experience. It creates a protective layer that prevents rust, ensures even heat distribution, and promotes better food release. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of seasoning your Blackstone griddle, providing detailed instructions and tips to achieve the perfect surface for your culinary adventures.
Step 1: Gather Your Seasoning Essentials
Before embarking on the seasoning journey, ensure you have the necessary tools and materials:
1. Blackstone Griddle: The star of the show, your Blackstone griddle.
2. High-Heat Cooking Oil: Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as grapeseed, canola, or vegetable oil.
3. Paper Towels: For wiping and spreading the oil evenly.
4. Heat-Resistant Gloves: Protect your hands from the heat while handling the griddle.
5. Spatula: To spread the oil and ensure it reaches every corner.
6. Newspaper or Aluminum Foil: To catch any excess oil during the seasoning process.
Step 2: Prepare Your Blackstone Griddle
1. Clean the Griddle: Start with a clean griddle. Remove any leftover food particles or grease using a mild detergent and warm water. Rinse thoroughly and dry it completely with a clean cloth.
2. Remove the Griddle Top: If your Blackstone griddle has a removable top, detach it from the base. This will allow you to season the griddle surface more easily.
Step 3: Apply the First Coat of Oil
1. Preheat the Griddle: Turn on your Blackstone griddle and set it to medium-high heat. Allow it to preheat for about 5-10 minutes until it reaches the desired temperature.
2. Apply the Oil: Dip a paper towel into the high-heat cooking oil and wipe it evenly across the entire griddle surface. Make sure to cover every nook and cranny.
3. Spread the Oil: Use a spatula to spread the oil evenly, ensuring it penetrates all areas of the griddle.
Step 4: Burn Off the Oil
1. Increase the Heat: Turn the heat up to high and allow the oil to smoke and burn off. This process helps create the initial seasoning layer.
2. Monitor the Griddle: Keep an eye on the griddle as the oil burns off. You’ll notice the smoke decreasing and the surface turning a darker color.
3. Let it Cool: Once the smoking stops and the griddle turns a dark brown or black, turn off the heat and let it cool down completely.
Step 5: Repeat the Process
1. Apply Additional Coats: To achieve a durable and long-lasting seasoning, apply 2-3 additional coats of oil, following the same process as in Step 3 and Step 4.
2. Cool Down Between Coats: Allow the griddle to cool down completely between each coat of oil. This helps the seasoning layers to properly adhere to the surface.
Step 6: Finalize the Seasoning
1. Wipe Off Excess Oil: Once you’ve applied the final coat of oil, use a clean paper towel to wipe off any excess oil from the griddle surface.
2. Heat the Griddle: Turn the griddle back on to medium heat and let it heat up for a few minutes.
3. Turn Off the Griddle: Turn off the heat and let the griddle cool down completely.
“Seasoning Success: Tips for Maintaining Your Blackstone Griddle”
1. Regular Use: The best way to maintain your seasoned Blackstone griddle is to use it regularly. Cooking on the griddle helps reinforce the seasoning layer.
2. Clean and Season After Each Use: After each cooking session, clean the griddle with a mild detergent and warm water. Rinse thoroughly and dry it completely. Apply a thin coat of oil to the surface and heat it up to medium heat for a few minutes. Turn off the heat and let it cool down.
3. Avoid Abrasive Materials: When cleaning the griddle, avoid using abrasive materials such as steel wool or harsh chemicals. These can damage the seasoning layer.
4. Store Properly: When not in use, store your Blackstone griddle in a dry place away from moisture. Cover it with a griddle cover or wrap it in a plastic bag to protect it from dust and moisture.
“Frequently Asked Questions: Seasoning Your Blackstone Griddle”
Q: How often should I season my Blackstone griddle?
A: It depends on how frequently you use it. If you use it regularly, you may only need to season it once every few months. If you use it less often, you may need to season it more frequently.
Q: What kind of oil should I use to season my Blackstone griddle?
A: Choose a high-heat cooking oil with a smoke point of 400°F (204°C) or higher. Some popular options include grapeseed oil, canola oil, and vegetable oil.
Q: How do I know when my Blackstone griddle is properly seasoned?
A: A properly seasoned Blackstone griddle will have a dark, almost black surface. It will also be non-stick and easy to clean.
