What oil is best for Blackstone?

Choosing the right oil for Blackstone cooking requires balancing several factors, including smoke points, seasoning benefits, and flavor profiles. As highlighted in Blackstone Products, oils like avocado oil and grapeseed oil offer ideal performance due to their high heat tolerance. Meanwhile, Halo-Pg emphasizes that oils like safflower oil are affordable, neutral in flavor, and perfect for high-heat applications on a griddle.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Oil for Blackstone Griddles

1. High Smoke Point

A high smoke point is crucial when cooking on Blackstone griddles, as they often operate at temperatures exceeding 400°F. Oils with low smoke points tend to break down quickly, leaving behind burnt residues that can compromise the seasoning. Oils with smoke points above 400°F include:

• Avocado oil – 520°F
• Safflower oil – 510°F
• Grapeseed oil – 420°F
• Clarified butter (ghee) – 485°F

2. Neutral Flavor Profile

While flavored oils like butter work well for specific meals, a neutral-flavored oil ensures the oil doesn’t overpower the ingredients. This is especially useful for dishes with subtle seasonings, such as stir-fries or delicate seafood.

3. Seasoning and Griddle Maintenance

A well-seasoned griddle enhances non-stick performance. Oils like flaxseed oil and grapeseed oil help build and maintain this protective layer over time. Consistent seasoning also prevents the surface from rusting, extending the griddle’s lifespan.

Top 5 Best Oils for Cooking and Seasoning Your Blackstone Griddle

Now that we understand the key factors for selecting oils, let’s dive deeper into the top five oils that are best suited for cooking and seasoning your Blackstone griddle. Each oil brings unique benefits to the table, making it important to match the oil to your specific cooking needs.

1. Avocado Oil

• Smoke Point: 520°F
• Benefits: Avocado oil is one of the most popular choices for griddle cooking. Not only does it have an extremely high smoke point, but it is also rich in healthy fats, making it ideal for heart-conscious cooks.
• Usage: You can use avocado oil both for cooking and seasoning, as it holds up well under high heat and offers a neutral flavor.
• Health Note: In addition to its heat tolerance, avocado oil provides antioxidants that make it a smart, nutritious choice.

2. Safflower Oil

• Smoke Point: 510°F
• Benefits: If you are looking for an affordable option, safflower oil is a great choice. Furthermore, its neutral taste ensures that the flavor of your food won’t be overpowered.
• Usage: This oil works especially well for stir-frying and everyday cooking. It can also serve as a base for seasoning the griddle, thanks to its high heat resistance.
• Pro Tip: If you frequently cook a variety of meals on your Blackstone, safflower oil’s versatility will ensure consistent performance.

3. Canola Oil

• Smoke Point: 400°F
• Benefits: Canola oil is widely known for being inexpensive and readily available. While it may not have the highest smoke point, it is still effective for medium-heat cooking.
• Usage: Canola oil is a go-to for general-purpose cooking. However, it is not the most recommended option for seasoning, since there are better alternatives for creating a long-lasting non-stick layer.
• Health Note: Canola oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, but it may not be the best option for extremely high-heat cooking on your Blackstone.

4. Grapeseed Oil

• Smoke Point: 420°F
• Benefits: Grapeseed oil is a lightweight, neutral oil that works exceptionally well for both cooking and seasoning. Moreover, its high smoke point ensures it holds up under high heat without breaking down.
• Usage: Many griddle enthusiasts recommend grapeseed oil for seasoning their Blackstone because it spreads evenly and forms a durable protective layer.
• Pro Tip: Use grapeseed oil if you want to maintain the seasoning on your griddle after every cooking session.

5. Clarified Butter (Ghee)

• Smoke Point: 485°F
• Benefits: Clarified butter, also known as ghee, is an excellent option when you want to add a rich, buttery flavor to your dishes. Unlike regular butter, ghee can withstand high temperatures without burning.
• Usage: This oil is perfect for breakfast foods like pancakes, eggs, and French toast, where a buttery flavor enhances the dish. In addition, ghee can be combined with other oils for added flavor and texture.
• Pro Tip: Use clarified butter for foods that require both high heat and a flavorful finish—especially during your morning cookouts.

How to Season Your Blackstone Griddle with the Best Oil

Seasoning your Blackstone griddle is essential not only for optimal cooking performance but also for ensuring its longevity. To achieve a perfect seasoning layer, follow these simple steps.

1. Clean the Griddle Surface

First of all, it is crucial to thoroughly clean the griddle to remove any dirt, dust, or factory residue. Use warm water mixed with mild soap to wipe the surface. Afterward, rinse with water and make sure to dry it completely to avoid rust buildup.

2. Heat the Griddle

Next, turn on the burners and set them to high heat. Allow the griddle to heat up for 10–15 minutes, or until the surface darkens slightly. This preheating step ensures the oil will bond well with the metal, forming a durable seasoning layer.

3. Apply a Thin Layer of Oil

Once the griddle is preheated, it’s time to apply the oil. Use grapeseed oil or flaxseed oil—both of which are excellent for seasoning—due to their high smoke points. Take a small amount of oil on a paper towel or cloth, and carefully spread a thin, even layer across the entire cooking surface. Be cautious not to overapply, as too much oil can result in a sticky surface.

4. Burn Off the Oil

After applying the oil, let it heat until it begins to smoke. This “burn-off” process is necessary to polymerize the oil, bonding it to the surface and creating a protective layer. Continue heating until the smoke subsides. For the best results, repeat this process at least 3–4 times to build a durable, non-stick coating.

5. Ongoing Maintenance

Finally, maintaining your griddle is essential for keeping it in top shape. After every use, allow the surface to cool slightly and wipe it down with a thin layer of oil to preserve the seasoning. Consistent maintenance not only prevents rust but also ensures a smooth, non-stick surface every time you cook.

By following these steps in order, you can enjoy a well-seasoned, easy-to-use Blackstone griddle. Using the right oil, preheating properly, and repeating the seasoning process several times are key to achieving long-term results.

Common Mistakes When Using Oils on Blackstone Griddles

• Using the wrong oil on your Blackstone griddle can, unfortunately, result in poor cooking performance or even long-term damage to the surface. Therefore, choosing the right oil is essential to ensure your griddle stays in excellent condition. To help you maintain your griddle properly and enjoy the best cooking experience, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
  • Using Low Smoke Point Oils:
    For instance, oils like olive oil burn quickly at high temperatures, leaving behind sticky residues that are difficult to clean. Therefore, it’s better to opt for oils such as avocado or safflower oil to avoid buildup and ensure smooth cooking.
  • Overapplying Oil During Seasoning:
    Although it might seem like more oil would create a better seasoning layer, using too much oil results in uneven coating. As a consequence, this can make the surface sticky and even attract dirt. Instead, apply thin, even layers of oil and burn them off properly to build a durable non-stick surface.
  • Inconsistent Maintenance:
    After every use, it’s crucial to wipe the griddle down and apply a light coat of oil. Otherwise, over time, rust can form, and the seasoning will deteriorate. Regular care ensures the griddle remains in optimal condition for every use. Moreover, maintaining consistency will help avoid costly repairs or resurfacing later.

  By keeping these common mistakes in mind, you can extend the life of your Blackstone griddle and enjoy hassle-free cooking. Above all, the key is choosing the right oil, applying it correctly, and following a consistent maintenance routine.

Best Practices for Cooking with Oil on a Blackstone Griddle

1. Preheat the Griddle Before Adding Oil

Preheating ensures even heat distribution across the cooking surface. This step helps the oil spread uniformly and reduces the chances of food sticking. Heat the griddle for 10–15 minutes before you begin cooking.

2. Use the Right Oil for Each Dish

Each dish benefits from a specific type of oil:

• Avocado oil: Best for high-heat grilling (steaks, burgers).
• Clarified butter: Perfect for breakfast foods like pancakes, eggs, or French toast.
• Safflower oil: Works well for stir-fries due to its neutral flavor.

3. Maintain the Griddle Surface After Each Use

After cooking, clean the griddle and apply a thin layer of oil to maintain the seasoning. This step prevents rust and keeps the non-stick surface intact. Oils like canola or grapeseed oil are suitable for this purpose.

4. Avoid Overusing Oil

Excessive oil can create a sticky buildup on the surface, compromising the non-stick performance. Always apply a thin layer of oil to avoid uneven coating during seasoning and cooking.

FAQs: What is the Best Oil for Seasoning and Cooking on a Blackstone Griddle?

1. What oil is best for seasoning a Blackstone griddle?

2. Can I use olive oil on a Blackstone?

While it’s possible, olive oil has a low smoke point, making it less suitable for high-heat cooking.

3. How often should I oil my Blackstone?

You should apply a thin layer of oil after each use to maintain the seasoning and prevent rust.

4. Is it safe to use butter on a Blackstone griddle?

Yes, but it’s recommended to use clarified butter to avoid burning during cooking.

5. What happens if I use the wrong oil?

Using oils with low smoke points can leave sticky residues that affect cooking performance.

6. What oil prevents rust on Blackstone?

Regular applications of canola or grapeseed oil will help prevent rust buildup.

Comparison of Oils by Smoke Point and Flavor

When choosing the right oil for your Blackstone griddle, it’s essential to consider both the smoke point and flavor. Some oils are better suited for high-heat cooking, while others shine in more delicate applications. Below is a detailed comparison to help you make an informed choice.

Conclusion: Choose the Right Oil for Your Blackstone Griddle

Selecting the right oil for your Blackstone griddle makes a significant difference in both performance and taste. Oils like avocado oil and safflower oil are excellent for high-heat cooking, while grapeseed oil is perfect for seasoning. Avoid low smoke point oils such as olive oil to prevent residue buildup.

Regular maintenance with a thin layer of oil after each use ensures your griddle remains in top shape, providing non-stick performance and rust prevention. Whether you’re grilling steak or making pancakes, using the right oils will elevate your Blackstone cooking experience.