Ok, you just bought your new griddle. Start cooking! Wait. Not quite yet. Have you seasoned your griddle? What kind of oil did you use? Do you have the right utensils? To properly cook on your flat top, you’ve got to have the right gear BEFORE you cook up a feast for your friends and family. Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Choosing the right oil
- Cleaning your griddle
- Long term maintenance
- Must have accessories
- Five easy meals to get started
Choosing the Right Oils for Your Griddle
First, you need to choose an oil for your griddle. Different oils possess varying smoke points, flavor profiles, and health benefits – making this the one of the most consequential decisions in your griddling career. Don’t screw it up! We’re going to list a few popular options to get you started, all of these have smoke points at 400 degrees or higher so they’re great for hot flat top cooking.
Canola oil is a popular choice due to its low cost, and high smoke point of around 400°F. Its light flavor allows the natural taste of the food to shine through, which can be particularly beneficial when preparing delicate ingredients. Additionally, canola oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, contributing to its healthful reputation. If you’re health-conscious but are set on canola oil go for the expeller-pressed option.
Here are a few canola oil options:
- Lowest price
- Best seller
- Best reviewed
- Expeller-pressed (healthiest option)
Olive oil, known for its robust flavor, is ideal for medium-heat griddle cooking. Its smoke point typically ranges from 375°F to 410°F, depending on the variety. Extra virgin olive oil is particularly noted for its rich taste, making it perfect for drizzling over dishes after cooking or for light sautéing. The health benefits of olive oil, including its high antioxidant content and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, further increase its appeal.
Here are a few olive oil options:
- Lowest price
- Best seller
- Best reviewed
- Extra-virgin, cold pressed (healthiest option)
Avocado oil is another excellent option, boasting a high smoke point of approximately 520°F, making it one of the best oils for high-temperature cooking. This oil not only imparts a mild flavor but also contains beneficial nutrients such as vitamin E and monounsaturated fats, which can contribute to a healthy diet.
Here are a few avocado oil options:
- Lowest price
- Best seller
- Best reviewed
- Unrefined organic (healthiest option)
Lastly, specialty oils, such as sesame oil, can offer unique flavors for specific cuisines. While often used for finishing dishes due to their low smoke points, these oils can add a deeper taste to stir-fries and other griddle-cooked meals. It is essential to utilize the right oil for the cooking technique in order to achieve optimal cooking results and preserve the integrity of your griddle’s surface. Pro tip: Oil is expensive, use an oil sprayer like this to evenly distribute oil and ensure your oil lasts.
Cleaning Your Griddle: Best Practices and Tools
Maintaining a clean griddle is essential for ensuring its optimal performance and longevity. Creating your own cleaning routine will prevent the buildup of food residues and reduces the risk of rust, thereby extending the life of your griddle. The cleaning process can be divided into two main parts: pre-cooking and post-cooking maintenance.
Before cooking, it is advisable to wipe down the griddle surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. (Here’s a reusable griddle cloth we like) For a deeper clean, use a scraper designed specifically for griddles to dislodge any stubborn residues left from previous meals. This tool is particularly effective at removing harden particles that may cling to the surface – here are a few griddle scrappers we like:
Following this, apply a small amount of your favorite cooking oil onto the griddle and spread it evenly, which not only prepares the surface for cooking but also helps in reducing the chances of food sticking.
After cooking, immediate cleaning is crucial. Allow the griddle to cool slightly but not completely, as a warm surface makes it easier to clean. Utilizing a grill brush or a non-abrasive sponge, scrub the surface with warm water. If there are stubborn residues, consider using an environmentally friendly cleaning agent that is safe for food contact surfaces. It is important to avoid harsh chemicals that could affect the flavor of your food or damage the griddle. Pro tip: use reusable bottle for both your oil and water it’ll make your clean up proces much easier.
For deeper cleans, soaking a cloth or sponge in a mixture of warm water and white vinegar can effectively dissolve greasy build-up. After cleaning, make sure to dry the griddle thoroughly to prevent moisture accumulation, which can lead to rust. By consistently following these best practices and integrating effective cleaning tools such as brushes, scrapers, and sponges into your routine, your griddle will remain in excellent condition, ready to deliver delicious meals for years to come.
Here’s a video from Blackstone walking through the entire post-cooking process.
Long-Term Maintenance Tips for Your Griddle
To ensure your griddle remains a reliable kitchen companion, regular maintenance is essential. One of the most critical practices is seasoning your griddle. Seasoning involves applying a thin layer of oil to its surface and heating it, creating a natural non-stick layer that also prevents rust. Ideally, this should be performed after each use or whenever the surface appears dull. Using oils with high smoke points, such as avocado, olive or vegetable oil, will yield optimal results.
Proper storage is another vital aspect of griddle maintenance. After thoroughly cleaning your griddle, ensure it is completely dry before storing to prevent moisture-related damage. For those with a non-stick coating, stack it carefully to avoid scratches. Consider using a protective cover, which can shield the griddle from dust and potential exposure to humidity while not in use. Furthermore, it is advisable to store your griddle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation of materials. Pro tip: use a silicon griddle cover to prevent dust and dirt from sticking to your flat top.
Protective measures are crucial to avoid common issues that can shorten the lifespan of your griddle. Always use utensils that are non-abrasive to safeguard the surface and prevent scratching. If you notice food sticking to the surface, it may indicate the need for reseasoning or a deeper cleaning. Regular inspection can identify any potential problem areas early, allowing for immediate attention before they escalate.
Should your griddle begin to show signs of damage or wear, simple repairs can often resolve these issues. For instance, any stubborn stains can usually be removed with a mixture of coarse salt and a damp cloth. Additionally, if your griddle has burners, checking for uneven heating can guide troubleshooting efforts, ensuring you can address any performance concerns swiftly. Investing time in these maintenance tips can significantly enhance your griddle’s longevity and performance, allowing for enjoyable cooking experiences for years to come.
Must-Have Accessories to Enhance Your Griddle Experience
To fully enjoy the benefits of griddle cooking, investing in essential accessories can make a significant difference. A selection of well-chosen tools not only improves efficiency but also enhances the overall culinary experience. Among these accessories, half-moon turners, griddle mats, and storage containers for oils and spices stand out as particularly beneficial.
First, the half-moon turner is a versatile tool specifically designed for handling various foods on the griddle. Its curved edge allows for effective flipping and spicing up a variety of items ranging from pancakes to burgers. The ergonomic design enables a comfortable grip, making it easy to maneuver delicate dishes without falling apart. By incorporating a half-moon turner into your toolkit, you elevate your cooking experience significantly.
Next, griddle mats are another invaluable accessory that enhances your cooking process. These non-stick, heat-resistant surfaces serve as a protective layer between the griddle and your food, preventing sticking while ensuring easy clean-up. They also help in evenly distributing heat, resulting in perfectly cooked items every time. Investing in quality griddle mats can save time and reduce frustration during cooking sessions.
Storage containers for oils and spices are crucial when it comes to organizing your cooking space. Having these essentials readily available allows for quick access during griddle cooking, which can streamline the overall process. Choosing containers that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing will accommodate not just practicality but also your kitchen’s decor. This is a personal favorite of ours to keep with you while cooking up your favorite meals. Furthermore, properly storing oils and spices extends their shelf life and ensures that ingredients maintain their quality for future use.
Each of these accessories contributes to a more enjoyable cooking environment. Together, they help maximize your griddle cooking experience, making it easier to prepare and enjoy a wide array of delicious meals.
Five easy griddle meals sure to impress
1. Smash Burgers
Ingredients: Ground beef (80/20 blend), cheese slices, burger buns, salt, pepper, oil or butter for the griddle.
Steps: Form the ground beef into loose balls and place them on the hot, oiled griddle. Smash the burgers flat using a spatula, season with salt and pepper, and cook until crispy on one side, then flip. Add cheese and allow it to melt. Toast the buns on the griddle and assemble your burgers.
Tip: Serve with grilled onions or a simple salad on the side.
2. Griddle Breakfast (Pancakes, Eggs, and Bacon)
Ingredients: Pancake batter, eggs, bacon, butter or oil.
Steps: Cook bacon first on the griddle until crispy. In the bacon fat (or with a bit of oil), pour pancake batter to form pancakes, and cook until bubbles form on the surface. Flip and cook the other side. Cook eggs in the same space, sunny-side-up, scrambled, or however you prefer.
Tip: You can griddle hash browns alongside for a full breakfast.
3. Chicken Quesadillas
Ingredients: Cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced), shredded cheese, tortillas, salsa, sour cream.
Steps: Heat tortillas on the griddle. Add cheese and chicken to one half of the tortilla. Fold the tortilla in half and cook until the cheese melts and the outside is golden and crispy. Flip to cook both sides evenly.
Tip: Serve with salsa and sour cream on the side for dipping.
4. Stir-fried Veggies and Chicken
Ingredients: Chicken breast (thinly sliced), assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, onions, broccoli), soy sauce, garlic, ginger, oil.
Steps: Cook the chicken slices first with oil, garlic, and ginger until browned. Push the chicken to one side, then cook the veggies until tender-crisp. Combine the chicken and veggies, then add soy sauce or your favorite stir-fry sauce. Cook for another minute.
Tip: Serve with rice or noodles on the side.
5. Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches
Ingredients: Thinly sliced steak (ribeye works great), bell peppers, onions, cheese (Provolone or Cheez Whiz), hoagie rolls, oil or butter.
Steps: Cook the sliced steak on the griddle, and season with salt and pepper. Separately cook the onions and peppers until soft. Combine the steak with the onions and peppers, and top with cheese. Once the cheese melts, scoop the mixture onto toasted hoagie rolls.
Tip: You can use mushrooms or hot peppers for extra flavor.