Starting off on the right foot is essential to any successful cooking venture. And when it comes to Blackstone griddles, a clean surface is key. But before you start seasoning your new griddle, the age-old question arises: should you wash it first? The answer is a resounding yes. However, there’s more to this than just a simple “yes” or “no.”
Picture this: You’ve just invested in a shiny new Blackstone griddle for your backyard BBQs. You’re eager to get cooking and show off your skills. But hold up. Before you start pouring oil all over the surface, it’s crucial to ensure that your griddle is free from any debris or manufacturing residue. In fact, Blackstone recommends washing all new griddles with soap and water beforehand.
But why stop there? Washing your Blackstone griddle before seasoning also ensures that the process will be effective in creating that coveted non-stick surface we all crave. By getting rid of any dirt or grime, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect seasoning and keep your food tasting great.
So if you want to cook like a pro and keep your Blackstone griddle in top-notch condition for years to come, take the time to give it a good wash before seasoning. Trust us; it’ll be worth it.
Contents
What is a Blackstone Griddle?
But if you’re new to cooking outdoors, you may be curious about what exactly a Blackstone Griddle is. Well, it’s a flat-top grill that’s designed to make outdoor cooking a breeze. But it’s much more than that – this versatile appliance can cook anything from burgers and steaks to pancakes and eggs.
One of the main advantages of the Blackstone Griddle is its massive cooking surface. Unlike traditional grills, which have individual grates for each item, the Blackstone Griddle has one large flat surface that lets you cook multiple items simultaneously. This feature is especially useful when cooking for a crowd or trying to prepare several dishes at once.
Another benefit of the Blackstone Griddle is its precise temperature control. The thick cooking surface distributes heat evenly, allowing you to cook your food to perfection every time. Plus, the temperature controls make it easy to adjust the heat as needed, so you can achieve the perfect sear on your steak or create fluffy pancakes with ease.
But before you can start using your Blackstone Griddle, it’s important to season it correctly. This means removing any excess oil or debris from the surface before applying a thin layer of oil and heating it up. Proper seasoning not only helps protect your griddle from rust and corrosion but also improves the flavor of your food.
What makes the Blackstone Griddle stand out is its durability and versatility. It’s made from high-quality materials like stainless steel and cast iron, making it resistant to rust and corrosion. Its thick cooking surface distributes heat evenly and allows for precise temperature control.
Why Should You Wash Your Blackstone Griddle Before Seasoning?
Before you fire it up and start cooking, there’s one important step you need to take: washing it.
Why is washing your Blackstone griddle before seasoning so crucial? Let’s break it down into sub-topics.
Firstly, washing helps to remove any factory oils or residue that may be present on the surface. These oils are used during the manufacturing process to prevent rust and protect the griddle during shipping. While they may seem harmless, they can negatively impact the seasoning process. Skipping washing and going straight to seasoning can result in uneven seasoning, causing hot spots and a sticky surface that is difficult to clean.
Secondly, washing helps to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may have accumulated on your griddle during storage or transportation. These particles can interfere with the seasoning process and prevent the oil from adhering evenly to the surface. They can also contaminate your food, leading to potential health risks.
But that’s not all. Washing your Blackstone griddle before seasoning also ensures that your food stays safe and delicious. Any remaining factory oils can give your food an off flavor or cause it to stick to the surface.
So what’s the bottom line? Taking the time to wash your Blackstone griddle before seasoning is a small but important step that can make a big difference in your cooking results. It helps to remove any unwanted oils or residue, prevent hot spots and a sticky surface, and ensure that your food stays safe and delicious.
When it comes time to wash your griddle, make sure to use warm water and dish soap. Avoid using any abrasive materials that could scratch the surface or cause damage. Once it’s clean, dry it thoroughly with a clean towel or cloth.
How to Clean a Blackstone Griddle Before Seasoning
A Blackstone griddle is a versatile tool that makes cooking meals easier and more enjoyable. However, before you can season your griddle, it is crucial to clean it thoroughly. Cleaning your Blackstone griddle ensures that any dirt, debris, or bacteria on the surface is removed, making it easier to season and preventing any health hazards.
Here are some ways to clean a Blackstone griddle before seasoning:
Allow the Griddle to Cool Down
Before cleaning your Blackstone griddle, make sure it has cooled down completely. Trying to clean a hot griddle can be dangerous and cause burns or damage to the surface. Leave it for at least 20 minutes after cooking to ensure that it is safe to clean.
Scrap Off Food Residue
Using a scraper or spatula, remove any food residue left on the griddle surface. Be gentle not to scratch the surface of the griddle. Scrape off as much as you can before proceeding to the next step.
Pour Hot Water on the Griddle
Pour hot water over the griddle surface and let it soak for a few minutes. The water will loosen any remaining food particles, making them easier to remove. This step also helps soften any burnt-on food and grease.
Scrub the Griddle
Using a soft-bristled brush or sponge, gently scrub the griddle surface in circular motions. Ensure that you cover every inch of the griddle, including the sides and corners. Avoid using steel wool or abrasive materials that can damage the non-stick coating of the griddle.
Rinse with Clean Water and Dry Thoroughly
Rinse the griddle with clean water to get rid of any soap residue or remaining food particles. Dry the griddle thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent rusting on your Blackstone griddle. Make sure to dry the griddle completely as any remaining moisture can cause rust.
What Kind of Oil Should You Use for Seasoning a Blackstone Griddle?
Fear not, as there are several options to choose from, each with its own unique benefits.
First up, we have vegetable oil. This affordable and widely available oil has a high smoke point, making it perfect for high-heat cooking. Additionally, it won’t affect the taste of your food, ensuring your meals taste exactly how you want them to.
If you’re looking for a non-stick surface on your griddle, consider using flaxseed oil. Though it has a low smoke point, it forms a hard and durable surface when heated. However, it can be more expensive than other oils and may leave a slightly nutty taste on your food.
For those looking to add extra flavor to their dishes, animal fats like bacon grease or lard are a great option. While they have a lower smoke point than vegetable oil, they add a delicious taste to your food. Just keep in mind that they can spoil quickly and may require more frequent re-seasoning.
Lastly, some chefs swear by using coconut oil to season their Blackstone griddles. This oil has a high smoke point and can create a non-stick surface on your griddle while also adding a subtle sweet flavor to your food.
Tips for Applying the Oil to Your Blackstone Griddle
During the manufacturing process, the griddle may have come into contact with dust or debris that can affect the seasoning process. By washing it with warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge, you ensure that any unwanted particles are removed, providing a clean surface to season.
Now onto the fun part
applying oil. To start, make sure your griddle is completely dry after washing it. Then, turn on your griddle to high heat and let it warm up for 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial as it opens up the pores of the metal, allowing for better absorption of the oil.
When choosing an oil, opt for one with a high smoke point such as vegetable oil or flaxseed oil. Applying a thin layer of oil evenly across the entire surface is key to creating a non-stick surface. Use a paper towel or cloth and be careful not to overdo it with the oil, as too much can lead to a sticky surface and even cause smoke during cooking.
After applying the oil, let it cook on high heat for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This will allow the oil to penetrate and bond with the metal surface, creating a protective layer that will prevent rust and improve cooking performance.
It’s important to note that applying oil in stages rather than all at once can yield better results. By applying a thin layer of oil and letting it heat up for a few minutes before applying another layer, you can ensure that each layer of oil gets absorbed properly.
Benefits of Washing and Seasoning Your Blackstone Griddle
If you want to elevate your cooking game, it’s crucial to understand the benefits of washing and seasoning your griddle. Trust me, taking the time to do so will pay off in the long run.
Let’s start with washing. It’s essential to wash your Blackstone griddle before use to ensure that any dirt, debris or manufacturing residue is removed from the surface. This not only guarantees cleanliness but also prevents any potential health hazards from occurring. Additionally, washing your griddle before seasoning can remove any rust that may have formed during shipping or storage. Rust can be detrimental to the lifespan of your griddle, so it’s best to take care of it before you start seasoning.
But wait, there’s more. Here are some additional benefits of washing your Blackstone Griddle:
- Improved hygiene: A clean griddle is crucial for the safety and hygiene of your cooking.
- Better performance: A clean griddle heats up more quickly and evenly, ensuring improved cooking results.
Now let’s talk about seasoning. This step involves coating your griddle with oil and heating it up to create a non-stick surface. Not only does this make cooking easier and more efficient, but it also helps prevent rust and corrosion from occurring.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Here are some additional reasons why you should make sure to season your Blackstone griddle:
- Enhanced flavor: A well-seasoned griddle infuses food with the seasoning oils, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Easy cleanup: A non-stick surface on your griddle ensures that food won’t stick to it, making cleanup a breeze.
- Longer lifespan: By preventing rust and corrosion, seasoning can help prolong the lifespan of your Blackstone griddle.
Common Mistakes When Washing and Seasoning a Blackstone Griddle
You’ve got your shiny new Blackstone griddle, and you’re ready to cook up a storm. But before you start flipping burgers, it’s essential to know how to properly wash and season your griddle. As an expert on this topic, I’m here to share some common mistakes to avoid when taking care of your Blackstone griddle.
Firstly, the biggest mistake people make is not properly cleaning the griddle before seasoning. Don’t rely on the seasoning process to clean the griddle – it won’t work. Without cleaning the griddle first, a layer of grease and food particles can sit on top of the seasoning, causing it to flake off or become uneven over time. So, make sure to use hot water and a scraper or spatula to remove any debris and grease before seasoning.
In addition, avoid using soap or harsh chemicals when cleaning your Blackstone griddle. While you want to clean the griddle thoroughly, using these products can strip away the seasoning or damage the surface of the griddle. Instead, stick to hot water and your trusty scraper for the best results.
After washing your griddle, always dry it thoroughly with a clean towel or paper towels. Leaving water on the surface can cause rust to form over time, which could damage your griddle’s surface.
Lastly, be mindful of how much oil you use when seasoning your Blackstone griddle. While it’s essential to use enough oil to create a protective layer on the surface of the griddle, too much oil can cause it to pool in certain areas and create uneven seasoning. Just a thin layer of oil will be enough for proper seasoning.
czITdvHgTSg” >
Conclusion
In conclusion, to cook like a pro and ensure your Blackstone griddle remains in top-notch condition for years, it’s crucial to wash it before seasoning. By washing the griddle beforehand, you can remove any debris or manufacturing residue from the surface, allowing for effective seasoning and the creation of a non-stick surface. It also helps prevent hot spots and sticky surfaces that are difficult to clean.
When cleaning your Blackstone griddle before seasoning, always use warm water and dish soap while avoiding abrasive materials that could scratch the surface or cause damage. After cleaning, dry it thoroughly with a clean towel or cloth.
For optimal results when seasoning your griddle, choose an oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable oil or flaxseed oil. Apply a thin layer of oil evenly across the entire surface and let it cook on high heat for at least 30 minutes to an hour. Applying oil in stages rather than all at once can yield better results.
By properly washing and seasoning your Blackstone griddle, you’ll not only improve hygiene and cooking performance but also enhance flavor, make cleanup easier, and prolong its lifespan. Avoid common mistakes such as not properly cleaning the griddle before seasoning, using harsh chemicals when cleaning, leaving water on the surface after washing, and using too much oil when seasoning.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to cooking up delicious meals on your Blackstone griddle for years to come.
