Reseasoning a Blackstone griddle is the process of restoring and enhancing the non-stick surface of the griddle. Over time, the seasoning on a griddle can wear off or become damaged, leading to food sticking and uneven cooking. Reseasoning involves cleaning the griddle surface, applying oil, and heating it to create a new layer of seasoning. This process is essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of your Blackstone griddle.
The importance of reseasoning a Blackstone griddle cannot be overstated. The seasoning on the griddle surface not only prevents food from sticking but also adds flavor to your dishes. It creates a natural non-stick surface that allows for easy cooking and cleaning. Additionally, reseasoning helps to protect the griddle from rust and corrosion, extending its lifespan. By regularly reseasoning your Blackstone griddle, you can ensure that it remains in optimal condition and continues to deliver delicious meals for years to come.
Key Takeaways
- Reseasoning a Blackstone Griddle is important to maintain its quality and extend its lifespan.
- Gather the necessary tools and materials such as a scraper, paper towels, cooking oil, and a heat source.
- Clean the griddle surface thoroughly before starting the reseasoning process.
- Heat the griddle and apply oil evenly to the surface, repeating the process multiple times.
- Wipe off excess oil and store the griddle properly to prevent rust and damage.
Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you begin the reseasoning process, it is important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here is a list of what you will need:
1. Scraper or spatula: A scraper or spatula is essential for removing any food debris or residue from the griddle surface before reseasoning.
2. Cleaning solution: You will need a mild cleaning solution or dish soap to clean the griddle surface thoroughly.
3. Sponge or cloth: A sponge or cloth will be used to scrub the griddle surface and remove any stubborn stains or debris.
4. Paper towels: Paper towels are useful for drying the griddle surface after cleaning.
5. Cooking oil: You will need a high smoke point oil such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or flaxseed oil for reseasoning the griddle.
6. Heat-resistant gloves: Heat-resistant gloves are necessary to protect your hands when handling the hot griddle.
7. Heat source: You will need a heat source such as a stove, grill, or the burners on your Blackstone griddle to heat the surface during the reseasoning process.
Each tool and material listed above serves a specific purpose in the reseasoning process. The scraper or spatula is used to remove any food debris or residue from the griddle surface, ensuring a clean starting point for reseasoning. The cleaning solution helps to remove any grease or stubborn stains that may have accumulated on the griddle. The sponge or cloth is used to scrub the griddle surface and ensure a thorough cleaning. Paper towels are necessary for drying the griddle surface before applying oil. Cooking oil is the key ingredient in reseasoning, as it creates a new layer of seasoning on the griddle surface. Heat-resistant gloves protect your hands from burns when handling the hot griddle, and a heat source is needed to heat the griddle during the reseasoning process.
Step 1: Clean the Griddle Surface
Before reseasoning your Blackstone griddle, it is important to clean the surface thoroughly. Start by scraping off any food debris or residue using a scraper or spatula. This will ensure that you have a clean surface to work with. Next, prepare a mild cleaning solution by mixing dish soap with warm water. Dip a sponge or cloth into the cleaning solution and scrub the griddle surface, paying extra attention to any stubborn stains or debris. Rinse the griddle surface with clean water and use paper towels to dry it thoroughly.
If you encounter stubborn stains or debris that are difficult to remove, there are a few tips you can try. One method is to sprinkle baking soda onto the stained area and scrub it with a damp sponge or cloth. Baking soda is a natural abrasive that can help to lift stubborn stains. Another option is to use a mixture of vinegar and water to soak the stained area for a few minutes before scrubbing it. Vinegar is known for its cleaning properties and can help to break down grease and stains. If these methods do not work, you can also try using a commercial griddle cleaner specifically designed for removing tough stains.
Step 2: Heat the Griddle
Once the griddle surface is clean and dry, it is time to heat the griddle. Heating the griddle before applying oil helps to open up the pores of the metal and create a better bond between the oil and the surface. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and even seasoning.
To heat the griddle properly, turn on your heat source to medium-high heat. Allow the griddle to heat up for about 10-15 minutes or until it reaches a temperature of around 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use an infrared thermometer or an oven thermometer to monitor the temperature. Heating the griddle evenly is important, so make sure to distribute the heat evenly across the surface by moving the heat source around or using multiple burners if available.
Step 3: Apply Oil to the Griddle Surface
After heating the griddle, it is time to apply oil to the surface. There are different types of oil that can be used for reseasoning, but it is important to choose one with a high smoke point. Some commonly used oils include vegetable oil, canola oil, and flaxseed oil.
To apply the oil, pour a small amount onto the griddle surface and use a paper towel or cloth to spread it evenly across the entire surface. Make sure to cover every inch of the griddle, including the corners and edges. The oil should form a thin layer on top of the metal surface.
Step 4: Spread the Oil Evenly
To ensure even coverage, it is important to spread the oil evenly across the griddle surface. One method is to use a paper towel or cloth to spread the oil in circular motions, working from the center of the griddle outwards. This helps to distribute the oil evenly and prevents any excess oil from pooling in one area.
Another tip for ensuring even coverage is to use a brush or a basting mop to spread the oil. This allows for more control and precision when applying the oil, especially in hard-to-reach areas or corners. Make sure to use a heat-resistant brush or mop that can withstand high temperatures.
Step 5: Heat the Griddle Again
After applying the oil, it is important to heat the griddle again. Heating the griddle helps to bond the oil to the surface and create a new layer of seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving a non-stick surface and enhancing the flavor of your dishes.
To heat the griddle again, turn on your heat source to medium-high heat and allow the griddle to heat up for about 10-15 minutes or until it reaches a temperature of around 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to distribute the heat evenly across the surface by moving the heat source around or using multiple burners if available.
Step 6: Repeat the Oil Application and Heating Process
In some cases, it may be necessary to repeat the oil application and heating process multiple times to achieve a desired level of seasoning. This is especially true if your griddle is new or if the existing seasoning is severely damaged.
To repeat the process, simply apply another layer of oil to the griddle surface and spread it evenly using a paper towel, cloth, brush, or mop. Heat the griddle again as previously described. Repeat this process until you are satisfied with the level of seasoning on your griddle.
Step 7: Wipe Off Excess Oil
After reseasoning your Blackstone griddle, it is important to wipe off any excess oil. This helps to prevent the oil from becoming sticky or tacky and ensures a smooth and even seasoning.
To wipe off excess oil, use a clean paper towel or cloth to gently blot the griddle surface. Make sure to remove any visible pools or drips of oil. The goal is to have a thin and even layer of seasoning on the griddle.
Step 8: Store the Griddle Properly
Once you have reseasoned your Blackstone griddle, it is important to store it properly to maintain the seasoning over time. Make sure to clean the griddle surface after each use by scraping off any food debris and wiping it down with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh cleaning agents or abrasive materials that can damage the seasoning.
To prevent rust and corrosion, it is recommended to apply a thin layer of oil to the griddle surface before storing it. This helps to create a protective barrier and maintain the seasoning. You can also cover the griddle with a fitted cover or store it in a dry and well-ventilated area to protect it from moisture.
In conclusion, reseasoning a Blackstone griddle is an essential step in maintaining its performance and longevity. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can restore and enhance the non-stick surface of your griddle, ensuring easy cooking and cleaning. Remember to gather all the necessary tools and materials, clean the griddle surface thoroughly, heat the griddle before applying oil, spread the oil evenly, heat the griddle again, repeat the process if necessary, wipe off excess oil, and store the griddle properly. By reseasoning your Blackstone griddle regularly and taking proper care of it, you can enjoy delicious meals for years to come.
If you’re looking to reseason your Blackstone griddle, you might also be interested in learning about the top 5 best outdoor gas griddles for your next BBQ. This article from Cookedly provides a comprehensive list of the best gas griddles available in the market, helping you make an informed decision for your outdoor cooking needs. Check it out here.
FAQs
What is a Blackstone Griddle?
A Blackstone Griddle is a flat-top cooking surface that is used for outdoor cooking. It is made of high-quality materials and is designed to provide even heat distribution for cooking a variety of foods.
Why do I need to reseason my Blackstone Griddle?
Reseasoning your Blackstone Griddle is important because it helps to maintain the non-stick surface and prevent rusting. Over time, the seasoning on the griddle can wear off, which can lead to food sticking and the griddle becoming more difficult to clean.
How often should I reseason my Blackstone Griddle?
The frequency with which you need to reseason your Blackstone Griddle will depend on how often you use it. As a general rule, you should reseason your griddle after every 5-6 uses or whenever you notice that the seasoning has worn off.
What materials do I need to reseason my Blackstone Griddle?
To reseason your Blackstone Griddle, you will need a few basic materials, including cooking oil, a clean cloth or paper towel, and a scraper or spatula.
What are the steps to reseasoning a Blackstone Griddle?
The steps to reseasoning a Blackstone Griddle are as follows:
- Heat the griddle to a high temperature.
- Turn off the heat and allow the griddle to cool slightly.
- Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the griddle surface.
- Use a clean cloth or paper towel to spread the oil evenly over the surface.
- Allow the oil to soak into the griddle for a few minutes.
- Use a scraper or spatula to remove any excess oil or debris from the griddle surface.
- Repeat the process of applying oil and scraping until the griddle is fully seasoned.
- Store the griddle in a dry place until ready to use.
Can I use any type of cooking oil to reseason my Blackstone Griddle?
Yes, you can use any type of cooking oil to reseason your Blackstone Griddle. However, some oils, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, are better suited for high-heat cooking and may provide better results.
Is it necessary to reseason both sides of the Blackstone Griddle?
No, it is not necessary to reseason both sides of the Blackstone Griddle. The seasoning on the top surface of the griddle is the most important, as this is where the food comes into contact with the griddle.