A Blackstone griddle is a versatile and convenient cooking tool that can help you achieve delicious results with various recipes. However, before you start using your new Blackstone griddle, it’s essential to season it properly. Seasoning creates a non-stick surface on the griddle, prevents rusting, and enhances the flavor of your food. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of seasoning your Blackstone griddle for optimal cooking performance.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin the seasoning process, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand. You will need:
– Mild dish soap
– Water
– Paper towels or clean cloth
– Cooking oil (such as flaxseed oil or vegetable oil)
– Heat-resistant gloves or tongs
– Grill scraper or spatula
Step 2: Clean the Griddle
Start by cleaning the griddle thoroughly with mild dish soap and water to remove any factory residues or dirt. Use a grill scraper or spatula to scrape off any stubborn debris. Rinse the griddle with water and dry it completely using paper towels or a clean cloth.
Step 3: Preheat the Griddle
Place the cleaned and dried griddle on your Blackstone grill or stovetop burner. Turn on the heat to medium-high and let the griddle heat up for about 10-15 minutes. Heating the griddle will open up its pores, allowing the oil to penetrate and create a non-stick surface.
Step 4: Apply Oil
Once the griddle is hot, use a paper towel or cloth to apply a thin layer of cooking oil all over its surface, including the sides and corners. Make sure to use an oil with a high smoke point, such as flaxseed oil or vegetable oil. Avoid using butter or low-smoke-point oils as they can burn and create sticky residues.
Step 5: Let It Smoke
After applying the oil, let it heat up until it starts smoking. This indicates that the oil is polymerizing and creating a protective layer on the griddle’s surface. You may notice some discoloration or changes in the appearance of the metal – this is normal during the seasoning process.
Step 6: Cool Down and Repeat
Once you see smoke coming off from the griddle, turn off the heat and let it cool down completely. Once cooled, repeat steps 3 to 5 at least two more times to build up layers of seasoning on your Blackstone griddle. The more layers you create, the better non-stick properties your griddle will have.
Step 7: Maintain Your Seasoning
To maintain your seasoned Blackstone griddle, avoid using harsh cleaning agents that can strip off its protective layer. Instead, after each use, wipe down the griddle with a damp cloth or paper towel while it’s still warm to remove any food residues. Reapply a thin layer of cooking oil if needed to keep your griddle well-seasoned.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your Blackstone griddle is properly seasoned for optimal cooking results every time!
