What To Know
- Whether you just bought a used Blackstone griddle or you’ve had yours for a while and it’s starting to look a little worse for wear, knowing how to season it properly is key to getting the best performance out of it.
- Once the griddle is hot, use a paper towel or a clean brush to apply a thin, even layer of cooking oil.
- Use a paper towel or a clean brush to spread the oil evenly over the entire surface of the griddle.
Whether you just bought a used Blackstone griddle or you’ve had yours for a while and it’s starting to look a little worse for wear, knowing how to season it properly is key to getting the best performance out of it. Seasoning your Blackstone griddle creates a non-stick surface that prevents food from sticking and helps to protect the metal from rust.
Why Seasoning a Used Blackstone Griddle Matters
A well-seasoned Blackstone griddle is a joy to cook on. It offers several advantages:
- Non-stick surface: A properly seasoned griddle will prevent food from sticking, making cooking easier and cleanup a breeze.
- Even heat distribution: Seasoning helps to create a more even heat distribution across the griddle surface, ensuring your food cooks evenly.
- Protection from rust: The layer of seasoning acts as a protective barrier against rust and corrosion, extending the life of your griddle.
- Enhanced flavor: The natural oils used in seasoning can add a subtle flavor to your food.
How to Season a Used Blackstone Griddle: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before you begin, make sure your griddle is clean. If it’s heavily soiled, you may need to use a scraper or a wire brush to remove any stubborn residue.
1. Clean Thoroughly
Start by cleaning your griddle thoroughly with a good quality degreaser and a non-abrasive cleaning pad. This will remove any leftover food particles, grease, or grime. Rinse the griddle with warm water and dry it completely.
2. Preheat the Griddle
Set your griddle to medium heat. Allow it to heat up for about 10-15 minutes. The griddle should be hot enough to smoke a few drops of water sprinkled on the surface.
3. Apply a Thin Layer of Oil
Once the griddle is hot, use a paper towel or a clean brush to apply a thin, even layer of cooking oil. We recommend using a high-heat oil like canola, grapeseed, or avocado oil. Avoid using olive oil or other oils with a low smoke point.
4. Spread the Oil Evenly
Use a paper towel or a clean brush to spread the oil evenly over the entire surface of the griddle. Make sure to get into the corners and edges.
5. Let the Oil Smoke
Let the oil smoke for about 5-10 minutes. This will help to create a polymerized layer of seasoning on the surface of the griddle.
6. Wipe Away Excess Oil
After the oil has smoked, use a paper towel or a clean brush to wipe away any excess oil.
7. Repeat the Process
Repeat steps 3-6 two to three times. This will build up a thicker layer of seasoning.
8. Let the Griddle Cool
Once the griddle has cooled completely, you can start using it.
Tips for Maintaining Your Seasoned Blackstone Griddle
- Clean with warm water and a soft cloth: After each use, clean your Blackstone griddle with warm water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the seasoning.
- Avoid using metal utensils: Metal utensils can scratch the seasoning on your griddle. Use wooden, silicone, or nylon utensils instead.
- Season regularly: To keep your Blackstone griddle in top condition, re-season it every few months or whenever you notice the seasoning starting to wear down.
Troubleshooting Common Seasoning Issues
1. Sticky Griddle:
If your Blackstone griddle is still sticky after seasoning, it might be a sign that you didn’t heat it up enough during the seasoning process. Try repeating the seasoning process, ensuring the griddle is hot enough to smoke the oil.
2. Uneven Seasoning:
If your seasoning is uneven, it might be because you didn’t apply the oil evenly during the seasoning process. Try using a brush to distribute the oil more evenly next time.
3. Flaking Seasoning:
Flaking seasoning can occur if you didn’t let the oil smoke long enough during the seasoning process. Try repeating the seasoning process, allowing the oil to smoke for a longer period.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Techniques for Seasoning Your Blackstone
For those who want to achieve a truly professional-grade finish, consider these advanced techniques:
- High-heat seasoning: This technique involves heating the griddle to a very high temperature, which helps to create a harder, more durable seasoning.
- Using flaxseed oil: Flaxseed oil is known for its high smoke point and ability to create a very smooth and durable seasoning.
- Using a seasoning spray: Seasoning sprays are a convenient way to apply a thin, even layer of seasoning to your griddle.
The Final Word: Your Blackstone Griddle’s New Beginning
Seasoning a used Blackstone griddle is a straightforward process that can breathe new life into your cooking surface. With a little effort and patience, you can achieve a non-stick, even-cooking surface that will make your Blackstone griddle a kitchen essential for years to come.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I use any type of oil to season my Blackstone griddle?
A: It’s best to use a high-heat oil with a high smoke point, like canola, grapeseed, or avocado oil. Avoid using oils with a low smoke point, like olive oil, as they can break down at high temperatures.
Q: How often should I re-season my Blackstone griddle?
A: You should re-season your griddle every few months or whenever you notice the seasoning starting to wear down.
Q: What should I do if my Blackstone griddle gets scratched?
A: If your griddle gets scratched, you can try to re-season the scratched area by applying a thin layer of oil and heating it up. If the scratch is deep, you may need to use a metal scraper to remove the damaged seasoning and re-season the entire surface.
Q: Can I use a Blackstone griddle for baking?
A: While Blackstone griddles are primarily designed for cooking, you can use them for baking certain items, like cookies or pizza. However, you’ll need to be careful to avoid burning the food, as the griddle heats up quickly.
