Griddle Seasoning: Should You Do It Every Time? Find Out Now!

Does One Season Their Griddle Every Time?

The question of whether or not to season your griddle every time you use it is a common topic of debate among grill enthusiasts. While there is no definitive answer, understanding the benefits and drawbacks of seasoning can help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning is the process of applying a thin layer of oil to a griddle to create a non-stick surface. This layer protects the griddle from rust and corrosion, making it more durable and easier to clean. Furthermore, a well-seasoned griddle provides better heat distribution, resulting in more evenly cooked food.

Benefits of Seasoning Every Time

Enhanced Non-Stick Surface: Regular seasoning helps maintain a smooth, non-stick surface, preventing food from sticking and making cleanup a breeze.

Rust Protection: Seasoning acts as a barrier against moisture, reducing the risk of rust formation. This is especially important if you live in a humid climate or store your griddle outdoors.

Improved Heat Distribution: A seasoned griddle distributes heat more evenly, ensuring that food cooks uniformly without hot or cold spots.

Drawbacks of Seasoning Every Time

Time-Consuming: Seasoning a griddle can be a time-consuming process, especially if you need to do it after every use.

Potential for Buildup: Over-seasoning can lead to a buildup of oil, which can become gummy and affect the performance of the griddle.

Determining When to Season

While seasoning every time is generally not necessary, there are certain instances where it may be beneficial:

• After Cleaning: If you have thoroughly cleaned your griddle with soap and water or a degreaser, you should re-season it to restore its non-stick properties.
• After Prolonged Storage: If your griddle has been stored for an extended period, seasoning it before using it will help protect it from rust.
• When Food Sticks: If you notice food sticking to your griddle, it’s a sign that it needs to be re-seasoned.

How to Season Your Griddle

1. Clean the Griddle: Remove any food residue or grease from the griddle using a brush or sponge.
2. Apply a Thin Layer of Oil: Spread a thin layer of high smoke point oil (such as canola or vegetable oil) over the entire surface of the griddle.
3. Heat the Griddle: Heat the griddle over medium heat until the oil begins to smoke.
4. Wipe Off Excess Oil: Once the oil has smoked, use a clean paper towel to wipe off any excess oil.
5. Cool the Griddle: Allow the griddle to cool completely before storing it.

Alternative to Seasoning

If you prefer not to season your griddle every time, you can use a non-stick spray or cooking oil to lubricate the surface. However, these methods may not provide the same level of protection and durability as seasoning.

Conclusion: Striking a Balance

Whether or not to season your griddle every time is ultimately a personal preference. If you value the benefits of a well-seasoned griddle, such as enhanced non-stick properties and rust protection, then seasoning every time may be worth the extra effort. However, if time is a constraint or you prefer a less intensive maintenance routine, you can opt for alternative lubrication methods.

What You Need to Know

Q: What type of oil should I use for seasoning?
A: High smoke point oils, such as canola, vegetable, or grapeseed oil, are recommended.

Q: How often should I season my griddle?
A: The frequency of seasoning depends on how often you use your griddle. If you use it frequently, you may need to season it after every use. However, if you use it less often, seasoning every few uses or as needed should suffice.

Q: What are the signs that my griddle needs to be re-seasoned?
A: Food sticking to the surface, rust spots, or an uneven heating pattern are all signs that your griddle needs to be re-seasoned.