best oil to use on a blackstone

3 min read 19-12-2024

Meta Description: Discover the best oil for your Blackstone griddle! This comprehensive guide explores various options, highlighting their pros, cons, and suitability for different cooking styles. Learn how to choose the perfect oil for optimal performance and delicious results. Avoid damaging your griddle with the wrong oil. Get expert tips and tricks for seasoning and maintenance.

Choosing the Right Oil for Your Blackstone Griddle

Using the right oil on your Blackstone griddle is crucial for both its performance and the taste of your food. The wrong oil can lead to smoking, sticking, and even damage your griddle's seasoned surface. This guide will help you navigate the options and find the perfect fit for your cooking needs. We'll cover everything from high smoke points to flavor profiles.

Understanding Smoke Points: The Critical Factor

The smoke point of an oil is the temperature at which it starts to break down and smoke. Using an oil with a low smoke point on a high-heat griddle like a Blackstone is a recipe for disaster. You'll experience excessive smoke, unpleasant flavors in your food, and potential damage to your griddle's surface. Always choose an oil with a high smoke point.

Top Oil Choices for Your Blackstone Griddle

Several oils stand out as excellent choices for Blackstone griddles due to their high smoke points and favorable cooking characteristics. Here are some top contenders:

1. Avocado Oil

Smoke Point: 520°F (271°C)
Pros: High smoke point, neutral flavor, healthy fats. Great for general use and high-heat searing.
Cons: Can be relatively expensive.

2. Refined Coconut Oil

Smoke Point: 350°F (177°C) - Note: This is lower than ideal, it is refined coconut oil. Unrefined has a much lower smoke point
Pros: Adds a subtle coconut flavor (if desired), relatively inexpensive.
Cons: Lower smoke point than avocado or grapeseed oil, making it less suitable for very high heat.

3. Grapeseed Oil

Smoke Point: 420°F (216°C)
Pros: High smoke point, neutral flavor, affordable.
Cons: May not be as readily available as other oils.

4. Canola Oil

Smoke Point: 400°F (204°C)
Pros: Widely available, affordable, neutral flavor.
Cons: Lower smoke point than avocado or grapeseed oil. Best for lower to medium heat cooking.

5. Sunflower Oil (High Oleic)

Smoke Point: 450°F (232°C)
Pros: High smoke point, neutral flavor, relatively inexpensive.
Cons: Flavor can be slightly less neutral than avocado oil for some palates.

Oils to Avoid on Your Blackstone

Some oils are simply not suitable for high-heat cooking on a Blackstone griddle. These include:

Olive Oil: Low smoke point, prone to burning and producing unpleasant flavors.
Butter: Low smoke point, burns easily. Best used for finishing or basting, not for initial cooking.

How to Season Your Blackstone Griddle Properly

Proper seasoning is key to preventing sticking and ensuring your griddle's longevity. Here's a simple method:

Clean your griddle: Thoroughly clean your new Blackstone griddle according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Apply a thin layer of oil: Use one of the high-smoke-point oils listed above.
Heat the griddle: Heat the griddle to medium-high heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Wipe off excess oil: Once the oil is shimmering and the surface is lightly colored, wipe away any excess with a paper towel.
Repeat: Repeat steps 2-4 several times for a thorough seasoning.

Maintaining Your Blackstone Griddle

Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your Blackstone griddle in top condition. Always clean it thoroughly after each use, and re-season as needed. A well-maintained griddle will last for years.

FAQs about Blackstone Griddle Oil

Q: Can I use bacon grease on my Blackstone?

A: While bacon grease can add flavor, its low smoke point makes it unsuitable for high-heat cooking. Use it sparingly for finishing touches or basting.

Q: How often should I re-season my Blackstone?

A: Re-seasoning is typically needed after a few uses, or whenever you notice sticking. The more you use it, the less often you'll need to re-season.

Q: What is the best oil for searing steaks on my Blackstone?

A: Avocado oil or high-oleic sunflower oil are excellent choices for searing due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors.

By following these tips and choosing the right oil, you can ensure your Blackstone griddle performs at its best and delivers delicious results every time. Remember that the key is high smoke point, neutral flavor, and proper maintenance. Happy Griddling!