Have you recently invested in a Blackstone griddle for outdoor cooking? Congrats! You’ve made a wise decision. Blackstone griddles are versatile, efficient, and easy to maintain – but they do require some maintenance to ensure they last for years to come. One of the most common questions is whether or not to use oil on a Blackstone griddle. To clear up the confusion, we’ll dive into the details of why and how you should use oil on your Blackstone griddle.
Why use oil on a Blackstone?
First things first – why bother using oil on your Blackstone griddle? The most important reason is to maintain the non-stick seasoning on the surface. Over time, the metal surface of your griddle will develop a natural coating of polymerized oil. This is what creates the non-stick surface that makes cooking a breeze.
To maintain this seasoning, you’ll want to use a neutral oil with a high smoke point. Common options are canola oil, vegetable oil, or grapeseed oil. Avoid using oils with a strong flavor, like olive oil, as they can alter the taste of your food.
Using oil on your griddle will also help prevent rust and protect the metal from getting too hot and warping. By evenly distributing heat, a layer of oil can prevent hot spots and ensure your food cooks evenly.
How to use oil on a Blackstone
Now that you know why oil is important, let’s go over how to use it properly.
First, make sure your griddle is clean before adding oil. You can clean it with a scraper and some warm, soapy water. Once it’s dry, turn the heat to medium and let the griddle warm up for about 10 minutes. This will help open up the pores of the metal and make it easier for the oil to absorb.
Next, add a small amount of oil to the griddle surface. You can use a paper towel to spread the oil around and create a thin, even layer. Be careful not to use too much oil, as this can cause smoking and create a fire hazard.
Once you’ve coated the surface, you can let it cook for a few minutes before wiping off any excess oil with a clean cloth. This will help create a non-stick coating and protect the metal from rust.
When to add oil on a Blackstone
Now that you know how to use oil on your Blackstone griddle, you may be wondering when to add it. As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to add a coat of oil after every cook. This will help maintain the non-stick seasoning and prevent rust from forming.
If you’re not planning on using your griddle for a while, you can add a thicker layer of oil and cover it with a lid or aluminum foil. This will help protect the metal from air and moisture, which can cause rust.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using oil on a Blackstone griddle is essential for maintaining the non-stick seasoning and protecting the metal from rust. By using a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola or vegetable oil, you can ensure even cooking and prevent hot spots.
Remember to add a coat of oil after each cook and wipe off any excess to create a non-stick surface. With proper maintenance, your Blackstone griddle will provide years of outdoor cooking enjoyment. Enjoy!
