Seasoning Your Blackstone Griddle: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction:
The Blackstone griddle is a popular cooking surface for its even heating, durability, and ease of use. However, new griddles often require seasoning to prevent food from sticking and promote non-stick properties. In this article, we will delve into the world of griddle seasoning and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to season your Blackstone griddle.
Understanding Griddle Seasoning:
Before we dive into the process of seasoning your Blackstone griddle, it’s essential to understand what seasoning is and why it’s necessary. In essence, seasoning refers to creating a layer of polymerized oil molecules on the surface of the grill or griddle. This layer prevents food from sticking and promotes non-stick properties by:
- Creating a chemical reaction between the oil and metal
- Forming a durable barrier against corrosion and rust
- Allowing for effortless release of cooked foods
Preparation is Key:
To season your Blackstone griddle, you will need the following materials:
– Cooking oil (preferably vegetable or canola)
– Paper towels or cloth rags for cleaning up excess oil
– A paper plate or tray for draining excess liquid
– Optional: a small bowl of water and a soft brush
Step 1: Clean Your Griddle:
Before you start seasoning your Blackstone griddle, ensure it is clean and free from any debris. If there are food particles left on the surface after cleaning with soap and warm water, scrub them off gently using baking soda or a steel wool pad.
Step 2: Apply Cooking Oil (Initial Seasoning):
Using paper towels or cloth rags, apply a thin layer of cooking oil evenly across the griddle’s surface. Be cautious not to over-oil your griddle during this initial seasoning process, as excess liquid will cause food to stick and originate it harder for you to achieve non-stick properties.
Step 3: Bake Your Griddle (Initial Seasoning):
Preheat an oven or grill at medium-high temperatures (around 350-400°F). Place the greased Blackstone griddle on a sheet pan lined with aluminum foil. If you have access to both options, use the grill; if not, utilize your oven.
Step 4: Bake Time:
Bake your blackened surface for about 1 hour and check its state frequently after this time has elapsed. Continue baking until no more white or shiny residue is visible on the griddle’s surface.
Step 5: Repeat (Additional Seasons):
Repeat steps one to three, focusing on maintaining even oil distributoin during each successive season process. If needed, use a soft brush and water to clean your grill while seasoning.
Tips for Additional Seasonings:
1) Keep applying additional coats of cooking oil using the same paper towels or cloth rags from step two.
2) Use baking sheets lined with aluminum foil, allowing easy cleaning if any spills occur during this process.
Conclusion:
Seasoning your Blackstone griddle is a crucial first step in establishing an even non-stick surface. The importance of proper seasoning cannot be understated; it greatly reduces food sticking and increases cooking efficiency for all sorts of dishes.
Additional Seasoning Tips:
1) If you don’t have access to either oven or grill, consider using the “heat-resistant baking method,” where your seasoned griddle is heated in a low-temperature oven (150-200°F).
2) For optimal seasoning results, allow each season layer at least 12 hours before re-seasoning.
3. In case food continues sticking after completing initial and additional seasons, consider adjusting the heat during cooking or allowing it to sit for some time with gentle heat until your non-stick surface is restored.
Seasoned Griddle Care:
1) Avoid extreme cleaning products: If you find yourself in a situation where something needs scrubbed away from your seasoned Blackstone griddle’s surface, opt for warm water and soap rather than harsh chemicals that could harm its protective layer.
2. Dry the Surface (Avoid Rust Formation): A clean towel or paper towels can help remove any residual moisture following each cleaning process.
By adhering to this step-by-step guide on how to season your Blackstone griddle effectively, you’ll be well-equipped in ensuring it remains protected from food sticking and rust buildup for a long time.