Seasoning your Blackstone griddle is an essential step in maintaining its non-stick surface and ensuring it continues to perform optimally over time. While many people focus on seasoning their griddle before its first use, it’s equally important to re-season it after cooking to remove any residue and prevent rust. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of seasoning your Blackstone after cooking and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it effectively.
Why Seasoning Your Blackstone After Cooking is Important
Seasoning your Blackstone griddle after cooking is crucial for several reasons:
- Prevents Rust: When you cook on your Blackstone, tiny food particles and moisture can seep into the metal, causing rust to form. Seasoning your griddle after cooking helps to remove these particles and creates a protective layer that prevents rust from forming.
- Maintains Non-Stick Surface: Seasoning your Blackstone griddle after cooking helps to maintain its non-stick surface. When you cook, food residue can stick to the griddle, making it difficult to clean. Seasoning the griddle after cooking helps to remove this residue and restore the non-stick surface.
- Removes Bacteria and Germs: Seasoning your Blackstone griddle after cooking helps to remove bacteria and germs that can accumulate on the surface. This is especially important if you’re cooking meat or other high-risk foods.
How to Season Your Blackstone After Cooking
Seasoning your Blackstone griddle after cooking is a relatively simple process that requires some basic cleaning and maintenance. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Cleaning the Griddle
Before you can season your Blackstone griddle, you need to clean it thoroughly. Here’s how:
- Scrape Off Excess Food: Use a soft-bristled brush or a paper towel to scrape off any excess food particles from the griddle.
- Wipe Down the Griddle: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the griddle, removing any remaining food residue.
- Use a Gentle Cleaner: If there are any stubborn stains or residue, use a gentle cleaner like soap and water to clean the griddle. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the griddle’s surface.
Applying the Seasoning
Once you’ve cleaned the griddle, it’s time to apply the seasoning. Here’s how:
- Choose the Right Oil: You’ll need a high-smoke-point oil to season your Blackstone griddle. Some good options include peanut oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil.
- Apply a Thin Layer: Use a paper towel to apply a thin, even layer of oil to the griddle. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges and corners.
- Use a Clean Cloth: Use a clean, lint-free cloth to spread the oil evenly across the griddle. Make sure to wipe off any excess oil, as this can attract dust and dirt.
Heating the Griddle
Once you’ve applied the seasoning, it’s time to heat the griddle. Here’s how:
- Preheat the Griddle: Preheat the griddle to 350°F (175°C) for at least an hour. This will help the seasoning penetrate the metal and create a hard, non-stick surface.
- Let it Cool: Once the griddle has cooled, wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth.
Tips and Tricks for Seasoning Your Blackstone
Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when seasoning your Blackstone griddle:
- Use the Right Oil: As mentioned earlier, it’s essential to use a high-smoke-point oil to season your Blackstone griddle. Avoid using olive oil or other low-smoke-point oils, as they can burn and damage the griddle’s surface.
- Apply Thin Layers: When applying the seasoning, make sure to apply thin, even layers. This will help prevent the oil from pooling and creating a sticky surface.
- Avoid Over-Seasoning: While it’s essential to season your Blackstone griddle regularly, over-seasoning can create a sticky surface. Make sure to wipe off any excess oil after seasoning to prevent this from happening.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Seasoning Your Blackstone
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when seasoning your Blackstone griddle:
- Using Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners to clean your Blackstone griddle, as they can damage the surface and strip away the seasoning.
- Not Cleaning the Griddle Properly: Failing to clean the griddle properly before seasoning can lead to a sticky surface and reduce the effectiveness of the seasoning.
- Not Heating the Griddle Enough: Failing to heat the griddle enough can prevent the seasoning from penetrating the metal and creating a hard, non-stick surface.
Conclusion
Seasoning your Blackstone griddle after cooking is an essential step in maintaining its non-stick surface and ensuring it continues to perform optimally over time. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can keep your Blackstone griddle in great condition and ensure it continues to provide you with delicious meals for years to come. Remember to clean the griddle thoroughly, apply a thin layer of oil, and heat the griddle to the right temperature to create a hard, non-stick surface.
What is seasoning and why is it important for my Blackstone griddle?
Seasoning is the process of creating a non-stick surface on your Blackstone griddle by building up a layer of polymerized oil. This layer is made up of triglycerides and is obtained by applying a thin layer of oil to the griddle and then heating it to a high temperature. Seasoning is important because it prevents food from sticking to the griddle, making cooking and cleaning easier.
A well-seasoned griddle also provides a non-stick surface that is resistant to scratches and corrosion. This means that your griddle will last longer and require less maintenance. Additionally, seasoning helps to prevent the griddle from rusting, which can be a major problem if left unchecked. By seasoning your griddle regularly, you can ensure that it continues to perform well and remains in good condition.
How often should I season my Blackstone griddle?
The frequency at which you should season your Blackstone griddle depends on how often you use it. If you use your griddle frequently, you may need to season it every 1-3 months. However, if you only use your griddle occasionally, you may only need to season it every 6-12 months. It’s also a good idea to season your griddle after cleaning it with harsh chemicals or after storing it for an extended period of time.
It’s also important to note that you should season your griddle after the initial purchase, as the manufacturer’s seasoning may not be sufficient. Additionally, if you notice that your griddle is starting to rust or that food is sticking to it, it’s a good idea to season it as soon as possible. By seasoning your griddle regularly, you can ensure that it continues to perform well and remains in good condition.
What type of oil should I use to season my Blackstone griddle?
The type of oil you use to season your Blackstone griddle is important, as some oils are better suited for high-heat cooking than others. Some good options for seasoning oil include peanut oil, vegetable oil, and canola oil. These oils have a high smoke point, which means they can be heated to high temperatures without breaking down or smoking.
It’s also important to choose an oil that is pure and free of additives, as these can affect the seasoning process. Avoid using olive oil or coconut oil, as these have a low smoke point and can break down when heated. Additionally, do not use cooking sprays or other oils that contain chemicals or additives, as these can damage the seasoning on your griddle.
How do I apply the seasoning oil to my Blackstone griddle?
To apply the seasoning oil to your Blackstone griddle, start by cleaning the griddle thoroughly with soap and water. Then, use a paper towel to dry the griddle and apply a thin, even layer of oil to the surface. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges and corners.
Next, use a clean paper towel to spread the oil evenly and remove any excess. You should be left with a thin, uniform layer of oil on the surface of the griddle. Then, place the griddle over medium-high heat and let it cook for 30 minutes to an hour, or until the oil has polymerized and formed a hard, non-stick surface.
Can I use a seasoning spray to season my Blackstone griddle?
While seasoning sprays can be convenient, they are not the best option for seasoning your Blackstone griddle. These sprays often contain chemicals and additives that can damage the seasoning on your griddle or affect its performance. Additionally, seasoning sprays may not provide a thick enough layer of seasoning to be effective.
Instead, it’s best to use a high-quality oil and apply it manually to the griddle. This will ensure that you get a thick, even layer of seasoning that will provide a non-stick surface and protect your griddle from rust and corrosion. If you do choose to use a seasoning spray, make sure to read the label carefully and follow the instructions carefully.
How do I maintain the seasoning on my Blackstone griddle?
To maintain the seasoning on your Blackstone griddle, make sure to clean it regularly and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Instead, use mild soap and water to clean the griddle, and dry it thoroughly after cleaning. You should also avoid using metal utensils or abrasive sponges, as these can scratch the seasoning and damage the griddle.
Additionally, make sure to store your griddle in a dry place and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity. You should also re-season your griddle regularly, as the seasoning can wear off over time. By following these tips, you can help maintain the seasoning on your griddle and ensure that it continues to perform well.
Can I repair the seasoning on my Blackstone griddle if it becomes damaged?
If the seasoning on your Blackstone griddle becomes damaged, you can repair it by re-seasoning the griddle. Start by cleaning the griddle thoroughly with soap and water, and then apply a new layer of seasoning oil to the surface. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges and corners, and then place the griddle over medium-high heat to polymerize the oil.
If the damage is more extensive, you may need to strip the old seasoning off the griddle and start from scratch. To do this, mix equal parts water and white vinegar in the griddle and bring it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the old seasoning has been removed. Once the old seasoning has been removed, you can re-season the griddle as usual.