Are you ready to take your outdoor cooking game to the next level or upgrade your kitchen with a versatile and high-performing griddle? If so, you may be wondering if the Blackstone Griddle comes pre-seasoned. This question pops up frequently among grilling aficionados who want to ensure they get the best cooking experience possible.
In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about seasoning and Blackstone Griddles. We’ll dive into why seasoning is crucial for optimal performance, examine the features of Blackstone Griddles that make them stand out from the crowd, and answer the burning question: does it come pre-seasoned?
But that’s not all. We’ll also share tips on how to season your griddle properly, whether it comes pre-seasoned or not. So whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your spatula and let’s get started on our journey to discover if the Blackstone Griddle comes with seasoning and how to make it sizzle like a pro.
Contents
What is a Blackstone Griddle?
With its flat, non-stick cooking surface and the ability to be heated using propane or natural gas, the Blackstone griddle is a versatile appliance that can cook just about anything. Whether you’re in the mood for pancakes and bacon for breakfast or juicy steaks and burgers for dinner, this appliance has got you covered.
One of the biggest advantages of a Blackstone griddle is its efficiency. The flat cooking surface heats up evenly, allowing you to cook food quickly and efficiently. This makes it an ideal appliance for outdoor cooking, especially when you’re feeding a large group of people.
But that’s not all – the Blackstone griddle is also incredibly versatile. Its flat surface makes it easy to cook multiple items at once without having to worry about them sticking together or overlapping. And because it can handle everything from delicate fish fillets to hearty burgers and hot dogs, it truly is an all-in-one cooking solution.
Cleaning up after a Blackstone griddle is just as easy as using it. The non-stick surface makes it simple to wipe down after each use, and many models come with removable grease trays that make disposal of excess oil or fat a breeze.
While some may be put off by the fact that Blackstone griddles don’t come pre-seasoned, seasoning your own griddle can be a fun and rewarding process for those who love to grill. Blackstone even offers a comprehensive guide on its website that includes tips on choosing the right oil and temperature settings.
Does a Blackstone Griddle Come Pre-Seasoned?
Before you make your purchase, you may be wondering if the griddle comes pre-seasoned. As an expert on this topic, I can assure you that a Blackstone Griddle does indeed come pre-seasoned straight from the factory.
This is great news for those who want to get cooking right away without worrying about seasoning the griddle themselves. The pre-seasoning also serves as a layer of protection against rust and corrosion, ensuring your griddle stays in top condition.
However, it’s important to note that the pre-seasoning isn’t enough to maintain the non-stick surface of the griddle over time. To keep it in top shape, you’ll need to season it periodically. This involves coating the griddle with oil and heating it up to create a layer of polymerized oil that helps prevent food from sticking.
Don’t worry though; Blackstone has got you covered with a comprehensive guide on their website that walks you through the seasoning process step-by-step. They even offer their own seasoning and cleaning products specifically designed for their griddles.
Why Should I Season My Griddle?
Seasoning is not just an optional step in the maintenance routine. It is a crucial process that can make or break your cooking experience. As an expert on this topic, let me explain why seasoning your griddle is important and worth your time.
Firstly, seasoning your griddle acts as a protective layer against rust and corrosion. A griddle is made of steel, which can easily rust and corrode when exposed to moisture. However, seasoning your griddle creates a barrier between the steel and the air, preventing moisture from coming into contact with the metal. This protective layer of seasoning will keep your griddle rust-free and prolong its lifespan.
Secondly, seasoning your griddle improves its non-stick surface. A properly seasoned griddle has a natural non-stick surface that prevents food from sticking to it. During the seasoning process, the oil used fills in the small pores and gaps on the surface, creating a smooth and even layer. This non-stick surface makes cooking and cleaning easier, as food slides off effortlessly.
But wait. There’s more. Seasoning your griddle also enhances flavor. The oil used during seasoning infuses into the metal, giving your food a unique taste that cannot be replicated on a regular stovetop. Plus, cooking on a seasoned griddle requires less oil, making it a healthier cooking option.
In addition to all these benefits, seasoning your griddle is cost-effective. A properly seasoned griddle requires less maintenance and repairs, saving you money in the long run.
To summarize, here are five reasons why you should season your griddle:
- Prevents Rust and Corrosion
- Improves Non-Stick Surface
- Enhances Flavor
- Healthier Cooking
- Cost-Effective
What Type of Oil Should I Use to Season My Griddle?
Let me take you through some of the best options.
First up, flaxseed oil. This healthy option is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious cooks. Additionally, its high smoke point means it won’t burn or smoke easily during the seasoning process.
If you’re looking for a more affordable and readily available option, consider vegetable oil. It has a neutral flavor that won’t affect your food’s taste and also has a high smoke point, making it perfect for seasoning your griddle.
But don’t stop there. Canola oil, grapeseed oil, and peanut oil are all great options too. They all have high smoke points and will help create that non-stick surface you’re after.
When applying the oil to your griddle, remember to use a thin layer with a clean cloth or paper towel. Too much oil can create a sticky surface that’s tough to clean. Once you’ve applied the oil, heat the griddle on high for about 30 minutes to allow the oil to bond with the metal surface.
What Temperature Should I Heat My Griddle To For Seasoning?
Before you start seasoning, preheat your griddle on high heat for at least 15 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps get rid of any residue left from manufacturing and prepares your griddle for seasoning.
Next, turn the heat down to a medium-low or medium heat. The ideal temperature for seasoning your griddle is between 300-350°F (149-177°C). This temperature range is perfect for opening up the pores of the metal and allowing the oil to penetrate without burning.
Once you’ve reached the desired temperature, it’s time to start seasoning. Begin by using a clean cloth or paper towel to apply a thin layer of oil onto the surface of the griddle. Any oil with a high smoke point like canola oil, vegetable oil, or flaxseed oil will do.
Spread the oil evenly across the surface and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. During this time, you may notice some smoke, which is perfectly normal. This smoke is an indication that the polymerization process is taking place and creating that non-stick surface on your griddle.
After 15-20 minutes, use a scraper or spatula to remove any excess oil or residue from the griddle. Repeat this process two to three more times until you’ve built up a nice layer of seasoning on your Blackstone griddle.
How Long Does It Take To Season A Blackstone Griddle?
Then seasoning your griddle is a must. Not only does seasoning enhance the performance of your griddle, but it also prolongs its lifespan. But exactly how long does it take to season a Blackstone griddle, you may ask? Well, typically, the process takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of your griddle.
Fortunately, seasoning your Blackstone griddle is a straightforward and uncomplicated process. First and foremost, ensure that your griddle is clean and dry before starting. You can use soap and water for cleaning and wipe it down with a dry cloth. Next, evenly apply a thin layer of high smoke point oil like vegetable oil or flaxseed oil across the surface using a paper towel or brush.
Now, turn on the heat to medium-high and let the griddle heat up for 10-15 minutes until the oil begins to smoke. This step is crucial as it helps polymerize the oil on the surface of the griddle, forming a protective layer that prevents rust and food from sticking.
Once the oil starts smoking, turn off the heat and let the griddle cool down completely. After it has cooled down, wipe off any excess oil with a paper towel or cloth. Repeat this process at least two more times until you have built up a good layer of seasoning on your griddle.
It’s essential to note that while Blackstone griddles come pre-seasoned from the factory, maintaining their seasoning over time is crucial for optimal performance. Therefore, re-seasoning your Blackstone griddle periodically is highly recommended.
Tips for Successfully Seasoning Your Blackstone Griddle
If you want to make the most out of it, seasoning it is a crucial step that you should not miss. In this guide, we’ll provide you with five sub-sections that will help you successfully season your Blackstone griddle.
Clean the Griddle Surface:
Before seasoning your Blackstone griddle, make sure to clean it thoroughly. This means removing any debris or dirt from the surface of the griddle using a scraper or spatula. After that, wash the surface with soap and water and dry it completely. This step ensures that there are no unwanted particles that could mix with the oil and ruin your seasoning.
Apply Oil
Once your griddle is clean, apply a thin layer of oil to the surface. You can use any high smoke point oil like vegetable oil, canola oil, or flaxseed oil. Spread the oil evenly across the surface of the griddle using a paper towel or brush. Make sure not to overdo it as a thick layer of oil can result in an uneven seasoning.
Heat the Griddle
Next, turn on the heat and let the griddle heat up for around 20-30 minutes at a high temperature setting. This heat will help burn off any excess oil and create a non-stick surface. During this process, you may notice some smoke coming off the griddle, which is normal.
Repeat
You may need to repeat this process several times until you achieve a non-stick surface. Applying multiple layers of oil and heating them up will help build up a layer of seasoning that will protect your griddle from rust and provide an even cooking surface. Remember to let your griddle cool down before applying a new layer of oil.
Maintenance
To maintain your Blackstone griddle’s seasoning, make sure to keep it clean and well-oiled after each use. This means removing any food particles or debris, wiping it with a damp cloth, and applying a thin layer of oil to the surface. This will help to prevent rust and ensure that it continues to perform well.
Benefits of Owning a Blackstone Griddle
For those who love to cook outdoors, owning a Blackstone griddle is more than just a purchase – it’s a game-changer. This versatile piece of equipment comes packed with benefits that will revolutionize the way you cook and entertain. Here are just some of the many benefits of owning a Blackstone griddle:
Versatility is the name of the game with a Blackstone griddle. This powerhouse can handle just about anything you throw its way, from breakfast favorites like eggs and bacon to juicy burgers and sizzling steaks. The possibilities are endless, and your taste buds will thank you.
Ease of use is another major benefit of owning a Blackstone griddle. Unlike other outdoor cooking equipment that requires complicated setup or specialized tools, this griddle is a breeze to use. Simply attach it to a propane tank, heat it up, and start cooking. It’s that simple.
Cleaning up after outdoor cooking can be a hassle, but with a Blackstone griddle, it’s easy. All you need is a cloth or paper towel to wipe it down after each use, and any leftover food particles can be scraped off with ease.
Durability is essential when it comes to outdoor cooking equipment, and the Blackstone griddle delivers in spades. Made from high-quality materials that can withstand high temperatures and resist rust and corrosion, this griddle is built to last.
Portability is another key benefit of the Blackstone griddle. Whether you’re heading out on a camping trip or throwing an impromptu tailgate party, this lightweight and compact griddle is easy to take with you wherever you go.
Saving time is always appreciated when it comes to cooking, and the Blackstone griddle delivers in this regard as well. With the ability to cook multiple items at once, you’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Blackstone Griddle is a culinary powerhouse that can elevate your outdoor cooking game to new heights. While it does come pre-seasoned from the factory, it’s important to note that maintaining its seasoning is crucial for optimal performance. Not only does seasoning improve the griddle’s non-stick surface, but it also acts as a protective layer against rust and corrosion, enhances flavor, and makes cooking healthier and more cost-effective.
To season your Blackstone Griddle like a pro, start by cleaning the surface thoroughly before applying a thin layer of high smoke point oil such as vegetable or flaxseed oil. Heat up the griddle at medium-low temperature for around 15-20 minutes until you see some smoke emanating from the surface. Repeat this process two to three times until you’ve built up a nice layer of seasoning.
Owning a Blackstone Griddle has numerous benefits, including versatility, ease of use, easy cleaning, durability, portability, and time-saving convenience.
