How to Season Your Carbon Steel Griddle for Flawless BBQ

By Avi Green July 06, 2024

If you are a barbecue enthusiast, then having a well-seasoned carbon steel griddle is indispensable. The process of seasoning not only prevents food from sticking but also adds flavor to your dishes. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover the steps on how to season a carbon steel griddle and share useful tips to achieve the perfect seasoning.

Why Seasoning Your Carbon Steel Griddle is Crucial

Seasoning a carbon steel griddle is essential because it creates a natural non-stick surface. Seasoning involves applying a layer of oil and heating it to a point where it bonds with the griddle, ensuring your grilled items cook evenly and with less hassle.

Step 1: Clean Your Griddle Thoroughly

Before you begin the seasoning process, make sure your carbon steel griddle is clean. Since carbon steel can rust easily, use mild soap and water to clean it, and always dry it immediately with a towel. For a more detailed cleaning guide, you can check out How to Restore Griddle Top.

Step 2: Apply a Thin Layer of Oil

After cleaning, apply a thin layer of high-smoke-point oil, such as flaxseed oil or canola oil, to the griddle's surface. Make sure to spread the oil evenly using a paper towel. Avoid using too much oil, as this can lead to a sticky build-up instead of a smooth, seasoned surface.

Step 3: Heat the Griddle

The next step is to heat the griddle. You can do this on your stovetop or in an oven. If heating on the stovetop, make sure the entire surface gets hot evenly. Heat the griddle until it starts to smoke, indicating that the oil is bonding with the surface. This process may take about 10-15 minutes.

Maintaining Your Seasoned Carbon Steel Griddle

A well-seasoned griddle needs proper maintenance to preserve its non-stick properties. Avoid using soap when cleaning it after use; instead, use a scraper or a brush to clean off food residues. Dry it thoroughly and apply a light coat of oil before storing it.

Regular Re-Seasoning

Over time and usage, you may need to re-season your griddle. Follow the initial seasoning steps whenever you notice food sticking to the griddle or if it starts losing its non-stick surface. Regularly re-seasoning ensures your griddle performs optimally at all times.

Avoid Rust

Carbon steel griddles can be susceptible to rust if not properly maintained. Always keep it dry and lightly oiled. If you notice any rust spots, scrub them off immediately and re-season the griddle.

FAQs

How often should I season my carbon steel griddle?

It is recommended to season your griddle every few months or when you notice that the non-stick surface has diminished.

Can I use any type of oil for seasoning?

While you can use various types of oils, high-smoke-point oils such as flaxseed oil, canola oil, and grapeseed oil are most recommended for a durable seasoning layer.