Hey there, fellow grill masters. Are you ready to take your outdoor cooking game to the next level? Then say hello to the Blackstone griddle – a must-have piece of equipment for any serious cookout.
But before you get too excited and fire up your new toy, it’s crucial to season it with the right oil. Not only does seasoning create a non-stick surface, but it also prevents rust and ensures your griddle lasts for years to come.
So, which oil should you use? Some folks swear by flaxseed oil, while others prefer vegetable or canola oil. In this post, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty details of each option, weighing up the pros and cons so that you can make an informed choice.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out on your grilling journey, we’ve got you covered. With our tips and tricks on how to properly apply your chosen oil, you’ll be well on your way to perfecting those pancakes and sizzling steaks in no time.
So sit back, relax, and let’s explore which oil is best for seasoning your Blackstone griddle – because nothing beats a perfectly cooked meal enjoyed in the great outdoors.
Contents
What is a Blackstone Griddle?
Look no further than the Blackstone Griddle. This high-quality, steel flat-top grill boasts a spacious cooking surface that can handle burgers, steaks, pancakes, eggs, and even stir-frying and baking.
The Blackstone Griddle heats up quickly and evenly, making it easy to cook foods to perfection. Not to mention, its built-in grease management system collects excess oil and grease from your meals, keeping the cooking surface clean and preventing flare-ups.
Seasoning your Blackstone Griddle is essential for creating a non-stick surface that will last. Opt for flaxseed or vegetable oil, but steer clear of oils with low smoke points like olive or coconut oil.
Cleaning the non-stick surface of the Blackstone Griddle is a breeze – simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or use a scraper to remove any stuck-on food.
Why Seasoning is Important
You’re about to embark on a culinary journey that will elevate your outdoor cooking game. However, before you start flipping burgers and pancakes, it’s important to season your griddle. But why is seasoning important?
Firstly, seasoning creates a protective layer on the surface of your griddle that prevents rust formation. This is especially crucial in humid climates or if you plan on storing your griddle outdoors. You don’t want your beloved griddle to rust away before your very eyes.
Secondly, seasoning prevents food from sticking to the surface of your griddle. Have you ever tried to cook on a sticky surface? It’s not pretty. By seasoning your griddle with the right oil, you’ll create a non-stick surface that will make cooking a breeze.
Now, let’s talk about the best oils to use for seasoning. There are three commonly used oils – vegetable oil, flaxseed oil, and canola oil.
Vegetable oil is affordable and has a high smoke point, making it a popular choice. However, it doesn’t produce the same durable seasoning layer as other oils, so you may need to season more frequently.
Flaxseed oil creates a hard, non-stick surface that’s perfect for cooking. However, it has a low smoke point, so you need to be careful when heating the griddle to prevent smoking. It also takes longer to dry than other oils, so be patient and let each layer dry completely before adding another.
Canola oil is an all-purpose oil that has a high smoke point and produces a durable seasoning layer that protects your griddle and enhances the flavor of your food. Plus, it’s readily available and affordable.
To season your Blackstone griddle properly, remove the factory coating first by heating the griddle to high temperature and wiping it down with a cloth or paper towel. Then apply thin layers of oil, letting each layer dry completely before adding another.
Flaxseed Oil – Pros and Cons
Look no further than flaxseed oil – but before you pour it on, let’s weigh the pros and cons.
Firstly, flaxseed oil boasts a high smoke point, meaning it can handle high temperatures without burning or smoking. This is crucial for evenly distributing heat across your griddle to create a non-stick surface. Beyond its practical benefits, flaxseed oil contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid linked to numerous health benefits. By seasoning your griddle with flaxseed oil, you’ll be adding a healthy ingredient to your meals while also creating a non-stick surface.
However, there are some downsides to consider. Flaxseed oil has quite a strong flavor, which may not be suitable for all types of cooking. It also requires proper storage to prevent it from going rancid, which can impact the taste and quality of your food. Lastly, it can be more expensive compared to other oils on the market.
When choosing which oil to use for griddle seasoning, it’s important to weigh both the pros and cons. While flaxseed oil can be a great option for some, others may prefer an alternative. Keep in mind that personal preference ultimately determines which oil you choose.
Vegetable Oil – Pros and Cons
Look no further than vegetable oil. It’s a popular choice, but as an expert on the topic, I want to ensure you’re well-informed before making a decision. Let’s dive into the pros and cons.
Pros:
- Affordability: Vegetable oil is one of the most affordable oils on the market, making it accessible to many people.
- Availability: You won’t have to go on a wild goose chase to find it since vegetable oil can be found in almost any grocery store or supermarket.
- High smoke point: With its high smoke point, vegetable oil can withstand high temperatures without burning or smoking. This makes it ideal for grilling and cooking on a Blackstone griddle.
Cons:
- Not the healthiest option: While affordable and readily available, vegetable oil is not the healthiest option. It’s high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can cause inflammation in the body when consumed in excess.
- Sticky residue: When used to season a Blackstone griddle, vegetable oil can leave behind a sticky residue that is tough to remove.
- Less durable: Compared to other oils, vegetable oil may not provide as durable of a seasoning, meaning it may need to be reseasoned more frequently.
If you’re looking for an alternative, flaxseed oil or grapeseed oil may provide better durability and health benefits but may also come at a higher cost. Ultimately, it’s important to consider all factors before choosing an oil to season your Blackstone griddle.
Animal Fats – Pros and Cons
Look no further than animal fats, such as lard and tallow, which have been used for centuries to infuse food with flavor. As an expert on this topic, I can help you navigate the pros and cons of using animal fats on your griddle.
First, let’s talk about the pros. Animal fats are renowned for their ability to add a savory taste that elevates the overall flavor of your food. They also have a high smoke point, which means they can endure high temperatures without burning or smoking excessively. This makes them perfect for searing meats and creating delicious crispy crusts.
However, there are some cons to keep in mind. One of the biggest concerns is the high level of saturated fat present in animal fats, which can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues if consumed excessively. Therefore, it’s crucial to use animal fats in moderation and balance them out with healthier options.
Another potential downside is the ethical considerations surrounding animal products. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, you may prefer to use vegetable oils instead of animal fats.
To summarize, animal fats can be an excellent seasoning option for your Blackstone griddle if used responsibly. They provide a unique and delectable flavor profile while withstanding high temperatures. However, it’s vital to consider their potential health risks and ethical considerations before making your decision. Remember to balance animal fats with healthier options and use them in moderation for the best results.
Oils to Avoid When Seasoning a Blackstone Griddle
Believe it or not, the wrong oil choice can make or break your culinary creations. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore the world of oils that are a big no-no for seasoning a Blackstone griddle.
First on our list are vegetable oils like corn, canola, or soybean oil. These oils have a low smoke point, which means they burn quickly and leave behind a sticky residue on your griddle surface. Trust me, you don’t want that. This residue is tough to remove and can impact the taste of your food. Instead, aim for oils with a higher smoke point.
Next up is olive oil. Although it has a high smoke point, it contains impurities that can cling to your griddle surface, creating an uneven seasoning layer. Uneven seasoning means hot spots on your griddle and an overall less-than-stellar cooking experience. We don’t want that either. So, save the olive oil for your salad dressing and choose another oil for seasoning your Blackstone griddle.
Oh, and let’s not forget butter and margarine. Both of these fats sizzle at a low smoke point, meaning they’ll burn quickly and leave behind a charred residue that’s tough to clean. Plus, who wants burned butter on their favorite dishes? Not me. So ditch these fats for better oil options.
Last but not least, oils with additives or flavorings such as garlic or chili oil should also be avoided. These additives can impact the taste of your food and leave unwanted flavors on your griddle surface. Stick to plain oils without any added flavorings for the best results.
So what oils should you use? It’s recommended to use high smoke point oils like flaxseed or grapeseed oil for the best results. These oils will give you a properly seasoned griddle for optimal cooking performance and won’t leave behind any pesky residue.
Benefits of Using the Right Oil for Seasoning a Blackstone Griddle
The secret to achieving the perfect seasoning lies in selecting the right oil. Seasoning a griddle is essential for protecting it from rust and corrosion, as well as creating a non-stick surface for cooking. When it comes to choosing the right oil, your griddle will thank you for being picky.
Using the right oil can prevent rust and corrosion from developing on your Blackstone griddle. Rust can compromise the performance of your griddle, not to mention it’s not visually appealing. The solution? Use oils with high smoke points and rich in antioxidants such as flaxseed or vegetable oil. These oils create a protective coating that shields your griddle from rust and corrosion.
Creating a non-stick surface on your Blackstone griddle is a chef’s dream come true. Cooking and cleaning become much easier when you have a non-stick surface to work with. Oils with high smoke points like vegetable or grapeseed oil are perfect for creating a non-stick surface because they can withstand high temperatures without breaking down.
Are you ready to elevate your dishes to the next level? Using specific oils like peanut or sesame oil can enhance the flavors of your food. These oils have distinct flavors that can add depth and complexity to your dishes, making them even more delicious.
Using the right oil for seasoning your Blackstone griddle can also extend its lifespan. A well-seasoned griddle will last longer than one that is not properly seasoned. By using an oil with high smoke points and rich in antioxidants, you can ensure that your griddle remains protected and in good condition for years to come.
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Conclusion
To ensure that your Blackstone griddle remains in top condition for years to come, choosing the right oil for seasoning is vital. Not only does it create a non-stick surface, but it also prevents rust and corrosion from forming. However, with several oils available like vegetable, flaxseed, canola, and animal fats such as lard or tallow, it’s crucial to consider their advantages and disadvantages before making a decision.
Vegetable oil may be affordable and have a high smoke point; however, it may not provide the same level of durability as other oils. On the other hand, flaxseed oil creates a hard non-stick surface but has a low smoke point and requires proper storage. While animal fats add flavor to your food, they are high in saturated fat and may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
It’s essential to avoid oils with low smoke points such as olive or coconut oil and those with additives or flavorings that can impact the taste of your meals.
By using the right oil for seasoning your Blackstone griddle, you can prevent rust formation while creating a non-stick surface that simplifies cooking and cleaning. Additionally, you’ll enjoy enhanced flavors in your dishes while extending the lifespan of your cherished grill.
