What New Blackstone Griddle Owners Should Know Before Cooking

Griddling 101: Your Must-Do Before Cooking on a Blackstone Griddle

So you just snagged yourself a shiny new Blackstone Griddle—awesome! Whether you’re a seasoned griller or stepping into outdoor cooking for the first time, there’s nothing like the thrill of cranking out delicious meals on this versatile surface. But before you dive headfirst into flipping burgers and sautéing veggies, there’s one crucial step you can’t skip: seasoning your griddle. Yes, that’s right! Seasoning is the foundation that will set the stage for all your culinary adventures to come.

What’s the Big Deal About Seasoning?

Let me explain: seasoning a Blackstone Griddle isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-do. Think of it this way—just like a cast-iron skillet, your griddle needs that protective layer to ensure it performs like a champ. When you season it, you’re essentially creating a non-stick surface that’ll make cooking easier and cleanup a breeze.

The process is straightforward yet magical. You’ll apply a layer of oil to the griddle and then heat it up. This heat causes those oils to bond to the surface, developing a slick and resilient coating. Pretty neat, huh? This step not only prevents rust but also enhances the flavors of whatever you’re cooking. Imagine biting into a perfectly seared steak or crispy vegetables, all thanks to that well-prepped griddle.

Why Seasoning Comes First

Now, you might be wondering why seasoning should take precedence over picking out all those fun accessories or choosing the right size for your gatherings. Sure, buying must-have griddle accessories and selecting a size that caters to your crowd can elevate your cooking experience, but none of those things replace the foundational importance of seasoning.

Let’s break it down. All those tools—spatulas, liners, and fancy spatulas—add convenience and versatility to your cooking routine, no doubt. And choosing a larger griddle size might be tempting, especially if you’re planning to create feasts for friends and family. But without that seed of seasoning, no amount of additional gear will help you achieve those mouthwatering results you’re hoping for.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Seasoning

Alright, you’re sold on seasoning. What’s next? Here’s how you do it:

1. Clean it Up: First things first, make sure your griddle is clean. If it’s brand new, just wipe it down to remove any manufacturing residue.

2. Oil it Up: Choose a high smoke point oil—canola, vegetable, or flaxseed oil works well. Plus, it’s usually what you’ve got on hand, which is a bonus! Generously apply the oil all over the cooking surface.

3. Heat it Up: Crank that power up and let your griddle heat until it starts smoking—this is where the magic happens! You want that oil to reach its polymerization point.

4. Cool Down: Once you’ve heated it, let your griddle cool down completely. This allows the seasoning to set nicely.

5. Repeat: For a more robust layer, repeat the oiling and heating process a couple of times. The more layers you build, the better the non-stick surface will be.

Maintaining That Perfect Seasoning

Now that your Blackstone is seasoned and ready to rock, it’s essential to keep that coating in tip-top shape. Just like you wouldn’t let your favorite cast iron skillet go to waste, be mindful of how you treat your griddle. After cooking, give it a light scrape to lift off stubborn bits, then simply wipe it down with a paper towel. If it starts to lose its sheen or you notice food sticking more than usual, it may be time to re-season.

Other Fun Things to Keep in Mind

While we’re on the topic of getting your griddle game strong, let’s chat about those additional accessories. You’ll find everything from griddle spatulas to specially designed liners that can make your life easier. A good liner for your grease cup, for instance, is a small step that can have significant effects on cleanliness. It not only helps keep things tidy but also prolongs the life of your griddle by keeping grease where it belongs—out of your way.

And if you’re planning gatherings, maybe even a backyard cookout, consider what size griddle will best suit your needs. The last thing you want is to run out of space when whipping up a crowd favorite. Let’s just say, no one likes waiting for their food!

Time to Get Cooking!

Now that you know the critical step of seasoning your Blackstone Griddle and the additional nuances of maintenance and accessories, you’re ready to take the plunge. This foundation will not only result in delicious food but also make your cooking experience enjoyable and stress-free.

So, gather those friends and family, and get ready to impress them with your culinary skills. And remember, every great meal starts with a well-seasoned griddle—who knows what amazing flavors you'll conjure up? Happy grilling!