So, you've got your shiny new Blackstone griddle and you're ready to cook up a storm? Hold on there, cowboy! Before you toss on those burgers, you need to properly season your griddle. Seasoning isn't just about making your Blackstone look good; it creates a natural, non-stick surface that will improve its performance and longevity. This comprehensive guide walks you through the process step-by-step, ensuring your Blackstone is ready for years of delicious grilling.
Preparing Your Blackstone for its First Seasoning
Before you even think about oil, you need to prep your griddle. This is crucial for a successful seasoning.
1. Cleaning the Griddle:
- Thorough Cleaning: Start by giving your Blackstone a good cleaning. Use warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to remove any dust, debris, or manufacturing residue. Don't use steel wool or abrasive cleaners – you want to protect that beautiful surface!
- Drying Completely: This is paramount. Make sure every nook and cranny is bone dry. Use paper towels or a clean cloth to thoroughly dry the entire griddle surface. Any remaining moisture will interfere with the seasoning process.
2. Initial Heating:
- Low and Slow: Turn on your Blackstone griddle and set the heat to low or medium-low. Let it heat up gently for about 15-20 minutes. This helps to remove any remaining moisture and prepare the surface for the oil.
Applying the Seasoning Oil
Now for the fun part: seasoning your Blackstone! This process creates that all-important non-stick surface.
3. Choosing the Right Oil:
- Vegetable Oil is Best: For your first seasoning, stick to a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable oil. Avoid oils like olive oil, which have a lower smoke point and can create a sticky residue.
- Amount: You don't need a lot. A light coat is all you need. Think more about spreading evenly than using a copious amount.
4. Applying the Oil:
- Even Distribution: Using a paper towel or a clean cloth, apply a very thin layer of the vegetable oil to the entire surface of the griddle. Work in sections to ensure even coverage. Don't be afraid to wipe away any excess oil. You want a barely-there sheen, not a greasy mess.
5. The First Heat:
- Medium Heat: Turn the heat up to medium. Let the griddle heat up for about 15-20 minutes. You should see the oil start to shimmer and possibly even smoke a little—this is normal, just avoid heavy smoke.
Repeating the Process for a Perfect Season
One coat isn't always enough for a truly non-stick surface.
6. Repeat the Process:
Once the initial heat cycle is complete, let the griddle cool completely. Then, repeat steps 3-5 at least two more times. Each additional layer will build up the seasoning and create a more durable, non-stick surface.
7. The Final Clean:
After the last seasoning coat, let the griddle cool completely before wiping down with a paper towel.
Maintaining Your Seasoned Blackstone
The seasoning process doesn't end there! Proper maintenance is key to keeping your griddle in top shape.
8. Post-Cooking Cleaning:
- Let it Cool: Always let the griddle cool down before cleaning. Never pour water onto a hot griddle.
- Scrape and Wipe: Use a metal spatula or Blackstone scraper to remove any stuck-on food. Then, wipe the surface with a paper towel or cloth.
- Light Oil Coating: After cleaning, apply a light coat of oil to help maintain the seasoning.
By following these steps, you'll have a perfectly seasoned Blackstone griddle ready for countless delicious meals. Happy cooking!
