What To Know
- If you’re a proud owner of a Blackstone griddle, you know that proper seasoning is essential for a long-lasting and non-stick cooking surface.
- After the final cooling, use a clean paper towel or cloth to wipe off any excess oil from the griddle surface.
- Remove the rust with a scouring pad or steel wool and re-season the griddle as described in the Maintenance Tips section.
If you’re a proud owner of a Blackstone griddle, you know that proper seasoning is essential for a long-lasting and non-stick cooking surface. Curing your griddle is a simple but crucial process that helps create a protective layer that prevents rust and ensures optimal performance. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn how to cure your Blackstone griddle like a pro.
Tools You’ll Need
- Blackstone griddle
- Vegetable oil (canola, peanut, or grapeseed)
- Paper towels or a clean cloth
- Heat-resistant gloves
Step 1: Clean the Griddle
Before curing, it’s essential to clean the griddle thoroughly. Remove any grease, food residue, or packaging materials using a damp cloth or paper towels. Allow the griddle to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Heat the Griddle
Put on heat-resistant gloves and turn the griddle on to medium heat. Let it heat for 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s evenly warmed up.
Step 3: Apply the Oil
Pour a generous amount of vegetable oil onto the griddle surface. Use a paper towel or cloth to spread the oil evenly across the entire surface, including the sides and edges.
Step 4: Cook the Oil
Once the oil is applied, continue heating the griddle for another 10-15 minutes. The oil will start to smoke and bubble. Use a spatula to push the oil around the surface, ensuring it reaches every nook and cranny.
Step 5: Turn Off the Heat
After 10-15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the griddle cool completely. Do not wipe off the oil during this time.
Step 6: Repeat Steps 3-5
Once the griddle has cooled, repeat steps 3-5 two or three more times. This will build up a thick layer of seasoning that protects the griddle and enhances its non-stick properties.
Step 7: Wipe Off Excess Oil
After the final cooling, use a clean paper towel or cloth to wipe off any excess oil from the griddle surface. Your Blackstone griddle is now cured and ready to use!
Maintenance Tips
- Season your griddle regularly (every 5-10 uses) to maintain its non-stick properties.
- Clean the griddle after each use with a damp cloth or paper towels.
- Avoid using harsh cleaners or steel wool on the griddle surface.
- If your griddle starts to rust, remove the rust with a scouring pad or steel wool and re-season it.
Troubleshooting
- My griddle is still sticking: Ensure you’re using enough oil during the seasoning process. Also, try cooking fatty foods like bacon or burgers to help build up the seasoning.
- My griddle is smoking excessively: The oil may be too hot. Turn down the heat and continue seasoning.
- My griddle has rust: Remove the rust and re-season the griddle as described in the Maintenance Tips section.
What You Need to Learn
Q: How often should I cure my Blackstone griddle?
A: Season your griddle regularly, every 5-10 uses, to maintain its non-stick properties.
Q: Can I use olive oil to cure my Blackstone griddle?
A: Yes, you can use olive oil, but it has a lower smoke point than vegetable oil. Canola, peanut, or grapeseed oil are better options.
Q: What should I do if my griddle is already rusted?
A: Remove the rust with a scouring pad or steel wool and re-season the griddle as described in the Maintenance Tips section.
Q: Can I use dish soap to clean my Blackstone griddle?
A: No, avoid using harsh cleaners like dish soap on the griddle surface. Instead, use a damp cloth or paper towels.
Q: How can I tell if my Blackstone griddle is properly seasoned?
A: A properly seasoned griddle will have a dark, almost black surface and will be non-stick.
