How to Season Blackstone (Guide)

Blackstone griddles are a popular choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned griddle master or just starting out, proper seasoning is essential for achieving delicious results and prolonging the life of your griddle.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for seasoning a Blackstone grill, providing you with expert advice and essential techniques to ensure that your griddle is perfectly seasoned and ready to cook up mouthwatering meals.

Key Takeaways:

• Seasoning your Blackstone griddle creates a non-stick surface and enhances the flavor of your dishes.
• Proper cleaning and pre-heating are crucial steps before seasoning your griddle.
• Using the right oil and spreading it evenly on the griddle surface is important for achieving optimal results.
• Multiple rounds of seasoning may be required to achieve a dark brown griddle plate.
• Regular maintenance and care will ensure that your Blackstone griddle lasts for years to come.

What is Seasoning and Why is it Important?

Seasoning is a crucial step in the maintenance and care of your Blackstone griddle. It involves building up layers of baked-on oil or fat on the griddle’s surface, similar to seasoning a cast iron skillet. While it may seem like an extra task, seasoning serves several important purposes.

First and foremost, seasoning provides protection against rust. By creating a barrier of seasoned oil on the griddle, you prevent moisture from coming into direct contact with the metal, reducing the risk of corrosion. This is especially important if you plan on using your griddle outdoors or in humid environments.

Additionally, seasoning creates a non-stick cooking surface. The layers of baked-on oil help to fill in the microscopic pores and imperfections on the griddle, resulting in a smooth, slick surface that prevents food from sticking. This makes cooking and cleaning much easier, allowing you to enjoy perfectly cooked meals without the hassle of dealing with stubborn residue.

“Seasoning adds flavor to your dishes and helps distribute heat evenly for perfect cooking results.”

Another benefit of seasoning is that it adds flavor to your dishes. The oil or fat that you use for seasoning imparts a subtle taste to your food, enhancing its overall flavor. Additionally, seasoning promotes even heat distribution across the griddle, ensuring that your meals are cooked evenly and consistently.

Table: The Importance of Seasoning a Griddle

In conclusion, seasoning is an essential step in caring for your Blackstone griddle. It not only protects the griddle from rust and corrosion but also creates a non-stick surface that enhances the flavor of your dishes. By understanding the importance and benefits of seasoning, you can ensure that your griddle provides optimal cooking results for years to come.

Preparing Your Griddle for Seasoning

Before you start the seasoning process for your Blackstone griddle, it’s important to ensure that it is clean and free from any dust, debris, or manufacturing residue. Follow these steps to prepare your griddle for seasoning:

1. Clean the griddle using warm soapy water. Use a sponge or brush to scrub away any residue. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with paper towels.
2. Gather the necessary items for seasoning, including a bucket of water, Blackstone Griddle Seasoning & Cast Iron Conditioner (or alternative oils), heat-resistant gloves or tongs, paper towels, salt, soap powder, and a stick for spreading the oil.

By starting with a clean griddle and having all the necessary materials on hand, you’ll be ready to proceed with the seasoning process for optimal results.

Table: Necessary Items for Griddle Seasoning

Having these items ready will ensure that you have a smooth and efficient seasoning process for your Blackstone griddle.

Sparkling Soapy Cleanse

To ensure a clean and pristine surface for seasoning your Blackstone griddle, start by giving it a thorough cleaning with soapy water. This will help remove any manufacturing residue, dust, or debris that may be present on the griddle. Fill a bucket with water and add a small amount of dish soap. Gently pour the soapy water over the griddle, and use a brush or sponge to scrub away any dirt or grime. Rinse the griddle with clean water and dry it thoroughly with paper towels. This step is essential to ensure that your griddle is ready for seasoning.

By cleaning your griddle with soapy water, you not only remove any residue or impurities, but you also create a clean and smooth surface for the seasoning process. This will allow the oil to adhere evenly to the griddle, ensuring a consistent and well-seasoned cooking surface.

Remember, a sparkling soapy cleanse is the first step towards achieving a perfectly seasoned Blackstone griddle, ready to take your cooking to new heights.

Pre-heat & Make it Dark!

Before you start the seasoning process, it’s important to pre-heat your Blackstone griddle. This step is crucial for darkening the griddle surface and creating a stick-resistant cooking surface. Pre-heating allows the oil to bond with the griddle, enhancing its non-stick properties and ensuring even heat distribution.

To pre-heat your griddle, simply turn the heat to high and let it heat up for approximately 10-15 minutes. During this time, the griddle top will start to brown, indicating that it’s reaching the desired temperature. Once you see the color change, you can turn off the burners and proceed to the next step of the seasoning process.

By pre-heating your griddle, you’re not only preparing it for seasoning but also creating the perfect foundation for delicious and evenly cooked meals. This step is essential for achieving a stick-resistant cooking surface and ensuring optimal cooking results with your Blackstone griddle.

Pre-heating your Blackstone griddle is a crucial step in the seasoning process. It allows the griddle surface to darken and develop a stick-resistant cooking surface. By following the recommended pre-heating time and temperature range, you’ll ensure that your griddle is ready for the next steps of seasoning and ultimately, for creating delicious meals with ease.

Choosing the Right Oil for Griddle Seasoning

When it comes to seasoning your Blackstone griddle, selecting the right oil is essential for achieving a perfect stick-resistant surface. The oil creates a protective barrier on the griddle, preventing rust and ensuring optimal cooking results. Here are some recommended oils for Blackstone griddle seasoning:

• Blackstone Griddle Seasoning & Cast Iron Conditioner: This specially formulated seasoning oil is designed specifically for Blackstone griddles and provides excellent results.
• Canola Oil: A popular choice due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
• Flax Oil: Known for its durability and ability to create a strong seasoning layer.
• Vegetable Oil: Another versatile option with a high smoke point, perfect for griddle seasoning.
• Olive Oil: While not suitable for high-temperature seasoning, it can be used for light seasoning or as a finishing oil.

Once you’ve chosen the oil, it’s important to spread it evenly over the griddle surface. Using paper towels, coat the entire griddle, ensuring there are no thick puddles or dry spots. The goal is to create a thin, even layer that will bond with the griddle during the seasoning process.

Table: Recommended Oils for Blackstone Griddle Seasoning

By choosing the right oil and spreading it evenly on your Blackstone griddle, you’ll be on your way to creating a perfectly seasoned surface for all your cooking adventures.

Fire it Back Up!

After applying the oil, it’s time to fire up your Blackstone griddle once again. Turn the heat back on and let the griddle plate get hot. As the griddle heats up, it will start to produce smoke. This smoke is known as the “smoke point” and it’s an important indicator that the oil has bonded to the griddle surface. The smoke point is reached when the oil reaches a high temperature, usually around 30 minutes or so.

During this time, the griddle plate will start to turn dark brown. This is a sign that the seasoning process is working and that a non-stick surface is being created. It’s important to let the griddle plate heat up and smoke until the smoke dissipates. This usually takes around 30 minutes. Once the smoke has cleared, you can turn off the heat and move on to the next step in the seasoning process.

Turning off the griddle after the smoke dissipates is crucial because it allows the seasoning to set properly. If you leave the griddle on for too long after the smoke point, the oil may start to burn and the seasoning layer may become uneven. So be sure to turn off the griddle once the smoke clears to ensure that you achieve the best results.

Table: Duration of the smoke point

Time for Some Extra Rounds!

When it comes to seasoning your Blackstone griddle, one round may not be enough to achieve the desired results. Multiple seasoning rounds are important to build up a dark brown griddle plate and create a durable non-stick surface. While the exact number of rounds may vary depending on the condition of your griddle and personal preference, it is recommended to season your griddle 2-3 times for optimal seasoning.

Each seasoning round involves applying a thin layer of oil, heating the griddle until it smokes, and letting the griddle plate turn dark brown. This process helps the oil bond to the surface and creates a protective coating that enhances the flavor of your cooking. For each seasoning round, it is essential to follow the same steps and ensure that the griddle reaches the desired color before moving on to the next round.

The timing for each seasoning round may vary based on factors such as the heat output of your griddle and the type of oil used. On average, each round can take around 30 minutes to complete. It’s important to be patient and allow the griddle to reach the desired color before proceeding. Remember, the darker the griddle plate, the better the non-stick performance and flavor enhancement.

Final Touches

Once you have completed multiple rounds of seasoning, there are a few final steps to ensure the long-term protection and maintenance of your griddle’s seasoning. These steps will help preserve the non-stick surface and prevent rust, ensuring that your Blackstone griddle lasts for years to come.

Protecting Your Griddle with Seasoning Conditioner

After the seasoning process, it is recommended to apply a final layer of Blackstone Seasoning & Cast Iron Conditioner or the Blackstone Non-Stick Griddle Spray. This additional layer of protection helps prevent oxidation and keeps your griddle’s seasoning in optimal condition. Apply the conditioner or spray evenly over the griddle surface, following the product instructions for best results.

Maintenance and Long-Term Protection of Seasoning

To maintain the seasoning layer on your griddle, it is important to regularly apply a thin layer of oil after each use. This will help prevent sticking and protect the seasoning. Simply apply a small amount of oil to a paper towel or cloth and spread it evenly across the griddle surface. Store the griddle in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture and humidity, which can lead to rust and deterioration of the seasoning.

Using a Griddle Cover to Avoid Rust

To further protect your griddle from the elements and prevent rust, consider investing in a heavy-duty cover. A griddle cover will shield your griddle from rain, snow, and other weather conditions that can cause rust or damage. Make sure to choose a cover specifically designed for your griddle’s size and shape for the best fit and protection.

By following these final steps and incorporating regular maintenance practices, you can ensure the longevity and performance of your Blackstone griddle’s seasoning. Take care of your griddle, and it will reward you with delicious, perfectly cooked meals for many years to come.

Maintaining the Seasoning

Once you’ve successfully seasoned your Blackstone griddle, it’s important to maintain the seasoning to ensure optimal cooking results and prolong the life of your griddle. Here are some key steps to follow:

1. Use seasoning products between cooks: After each use, apply a thin layer of Blackstone Griddle Seasoning & Cast Iron Conditioner or the Blackstone Non-Stick Griddle Spray to protect the seasoning and prevent sticking. This will help maintain the non-stick surface and enhance the flavor of your dishes.
2. Regularly apply oil: Applying a thin layer of oil to the griddle after each use is crucial for maintaining the seasoning layer. It helps prevent rust and keeps the surface well-seasoned for future cooking sessions. Choose a cooking oil that has a high smoke point, such as canola oil or vegetable oil, for best results.
3. Store your griddle properly: To prevent damage and maintain the seasoning, store your griddle in a cool, dry place. Consider using a heavy-duty cover to protect it from dust, moisture, and other external elements that could potentially cause rust or affect the seasoning layer.

Maintaining the seasoning layer on your Blackstone griddle will not only improve your cooking experience but also ensure that your griddle lasts for years to come. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious, evenly cooked meals every time you use your griddle.

Tips for Seasoning Maintenance:

• Always clean your griddle after each use to remove any food residue or excess oil. Use a spatula to scrape off any stuck-on food.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads that can strip away the seasoning. Instead, use warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge to clean the surface.
• If rust does occur, gently scrub it off using a mixture of salt, soap powder, and water. Rinse thoroughly and reapply a thin layer of oil to reseason the affected area.
• Regularly inspect your griddle for any signs of wear or damage. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain the quality of your griddle.

Table: Griddle Seasoning Maintenance Essentials

By following these maintenance tips, you can enjoy the benefits of a well-seasoned Blackstone griddle for years to come, ensuring delicious meals and hassle-free cooking experiences.

Cleaning and Care Tips

Proper cleaning and care are essential for maintaining the longevity and effectiveness of your seasoned griddle. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:

1. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that can strip away the seasoning. These harsh cleaning agents can damage the surface of your griddle and hinder its non-stick properties.
2. To remove stuck-on food or residue, use a spatula or scraper to gently scrape away the debris. Be careful not to scratch the surface of the griddle.
3. To prevent rust from forming on the griddle surface, it is important to keep it dry and avoid exposure to moisture. After each use, make sure to thoroughly dry the griddle with a clean cloth or paper towel.
4. For stubborn rust spots, create a mixture of salt, soap powder, and water. Scrub the affected areas gently with this mixture to remove the rust. Rinse with clean water and dry the griddle completely.
5. Proper storage of your griddle is crucial to preventing rust and maintaining the seasoning layer. Store it in a dry and well-ventilated area, preferably with a protective cover to shield it from dust, dirt, and moisture.

By following these cleaning and care tips, you can ensure that your seasoned griddle remains in optimal condition and continues to provide exceptional cooking performance for years to come.

Table: Do’s and Don’ts of Cleaning a Seasoned Griddle

Conclusion

Seasoning your Blackstone griddle is an essential step in achieving optimal cooking results. By following the proper cleaning, pre-heating, and oil application techniques, you can create a durable and flavorful seasoning layer that enhances the flavor of your dishes and provides a non-stick cooking surface.

During the seasoning process, make sure to clean your griddle thoroughly with soapy water to remove any dust or debris. Pre-heat the griddle on high heat to create a stick-resistant surface and darken the griddle plate. Apply a thin layer of oil evenly on the griddle and heat it until it produces smoke, indicating that the oil has bonded to the surface.

For the best results, repeat the seasoning process 2-3 times to achieve a dark brown griddle plate. After completing the seasoning, remember to regularly maintain the seasoning layer by applying a thin layer of oil after each use and using the appropriate seasoning products. Properly store your griddle to prevent rust and ensure the longevity of the seasoning.

By taking the time to properly season and care for your Blackstone griddle, you can enjoy delicious and perfectly cooked meals every time. Start seasoning your griddle today and elevate your cooking experience!