Pros and Cons of Blackstone Griddle

In the realm of outdoor cooking, the griddle has emerged as a game-changer, offering a unique blend of versatility and efficiency. Among the frontrunners of this culinary revolution is the Blackstone Griddle, a name that resonates with both seasoned chefs and weekend BBQ enthusiasts.

But what makes this griddle stand out in a market flooded with cooking appliances? Is it the expansive cooking surface, the promise of healthier meals, or perhaps its adaptability to various cuisines? Dive into our comprehensive exploration of the Blackstone Griddle, where we unravel its pros, cons, and everything in between, ensuring you're equipped with all the knowledge to make an informed decision.

What is Blackstone Griddle?

Generally, a Blackstone Griddle is fueled by propane.  The flat and large cooking surface of the Blackstone griddle is ideal for cooking several items at one go such as pancakes, eggs, hamburgers, bacon, veggies, hotdogs, etc. Moreover, the stainless steel flat surface heats evenly similar to that of a traditional grill. 

Blackstone Griddle Comprehensive Analysis: Features, Pros, and Cons

How to use Blackstone Griddle?

Blackstone Griddle is easy to use. After unpacking, clean it properly and season the griddle. When you are cooking for large gatherings, make sure to utilize all the heat zones to cook several dishes at once.

The griddle thermometer is good to go as you can get to know the perfect temperature and when the grill top gets hot. Use healthy oils when cooking and also for seasoning. You should clean Blackstone Griddle properly after every use. Sticky leftovers should be cleaned with water while the top is still hot. Clean, wipe and then apply a thin layer of oil to the surface so it does not rust.

Why does everyone like Blackstone Griddle?

People all across the globe like Blackstone Griddle but the most important is its versatility. Using the griddle is easy and you can cook anything. It is a great cooking option for large gatherings. Turn on the gas and preheat the griddle for some time before you start cooking. 

A large cooking surface means you can cook several items at one go which adds convenience.  The flat top is made of stainless steel which means even cooking. Food does not stick and requires less cleaning.

Pros of Blackstone Griddle

Blackstone griddle offers several advantages. 

Large cooktop 

On Blackstone Griddle you can cook large quantities of food. The griddle is convenient to prepare large meals, especially for Friends and family on any occasion such as Thanksgiving, or Christmas. Cooking on a large cooktop saves time as you do not need to cook dishes separately. There is enough space to flip food creating a mess. 

Versatility

Outdoor cooking can be a great mess with no proper cooking unit. With Blackstone Griddle you can prepare several delicacies such as scrambled eggs, fried rice or meat, etc. A flat surface is ideal for preparing these types of dishes. Grilling veggies, meat, and other options can be done by griddle.

Sometimes people think griddles are best for breakfast because high-end griddles are perfect for preparing eggs, pancakes, hash browns, grilled sandwiches, muffins, patties, etc. But this is not all because you can cook anything on a griddle. You can sauté veggies and sear meat. Cheesesteaks, fried rice, pizzas, and quesadillas can be prepared on a flat-top grill. 

Cleaning is easy

The well-seasoned griddle can be cleaned easily, especially with the help of a  Griddle Cleaning Kit. Regular maintenance is needed for effortless cleaning. Allow your grill to cool for some time after cooking.  You can use a spatula to scrape off the food leftovers from the cooktop surface and wipe them with a paper towel or cloth. After cleaning with water, sprinkle oil and spread it with a paper towel. Now your griddle is ready for storage or the next cooking session. 

Grease-less cooking

The griddle cooktop is flat and at the back side of the griddle, there is an opening that allows fat and oils to drip off into a tray or grease trap. This aids in reducing the fat content in your dish. You need not put any oil on a well-seasoned griddle when cooking or sprinkle a little quantity if needed to promote healthy eating habits. 

Ideal to cook outdoor

While cooking griddles do not create excessive smoke and thus it is convenient to use outdoors. Electric griddles are ideal to use indoors and propane powered are adequate for outdoor cooking. Use them on camping or in the backyard. Electric-powered griddles are perfect to use on a kitchen countertop as they are compact.

To know more about some of the Best Outdoor Griddle available in the market, please read - Best Outdoor Griddle To Satisfy Your Inner Adventurer

Durable

Your griddle can be long-lasting when maintained properly. It can last for generations because of its durable and sturdy construction. Steel griddles are resistant to oxidation but it is necessary to take proper care of your griddle to increase its longevity. The griddle can rust if exposed to water for a long time which decreases its life span. Make sure to store the griddle in a dry and cool place. Dry and season your griddle thoroughly after cleaning 

Enhances flavor

When you season the griddle with oil it makes the surface non-stick so no food leftover stick to the cooktop. Seasoned griddle enhances food flavor. Cooking food on a griddle adds a golden hue to food and makes it crispy because of direct contact with the metal surface. You get pan-seared and sautéed taste in food. This is a healthier cooking option as food does not contact the flame directly. 

Ideal for searing

Heat your griddle to the highest temperature and once the griddle heats up, it remains hot for a long time. This leaves consistent, solid, and even sear on your meat and steak.

Simple to Use

You do not require expertise to use a griddle while some cooking units need the experience to use them. Griddles are straightforward to use however, you should read the instructions carefully to avoid the hassle. A  Griddle Thermometer is necessary to know hot spots on the cooktop.

Cons of Blackstone Griddle

Apart from several advantages, there are many demerits of the griddle that you should know before buying one. 

Regular maintenance is necessary

When you care for your griddle, it can be your friend for a lifetime. Proper and regular maintenance of the griddle makes it effective. Make sure to handle, clean, season, and store it properly. 

You need to clean the griddle after cooking and storing the unit without cleaning, wiping and seasoning is a big no. if you store a griddle without paying attention to all this, your griddle will lose its durability. 

Do not pile things on your griddle as it may chip. Warping is also an issue if your griddle is exposed to extreme temperatures. When cooking dishes you should use good quality oils, especially with a high-smoke point. 

More heating time

The griddle takes a long time to heat up. So you should have ample time to cook on the griddle. Preheating requires 10 to 15 minutes. Lots of heat energy is wasted if you cook small meals on a griddle. 

Seasoning is necessary

Griddle requires detailed seasoning, especially when using a cast-iron unit. Seasoning aids in creating a non-sticky layer on the cooktop. You should clean and season the griddle properly after every meal preparation. Make sure to season the griddle to prevent food from sticking. It does not mean that you use excess oil because it may lead to chipping and stickiness.

Not good for indoor use

Propane-fueled griddles are not good for indoor use because of the lack of proper ventilation. Gas griddles should always be used outdoors as there is a sufficient flow of air. Propane produces carbon monoxide when burns incorrectly. 

Carbon monoxide is a deadly poisonous gas and as it is odorless you cannot notice it. Moreover, when you cook fatty foods on a griddle, it produces excessive smoke which is harmful when the griddle is used indoors. Mess is another demerit that you cannot avoid. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Blackstone Griddle

Let’s discuss some of the most asked queries about griddle that helps you make an informed decision.

Is it a good choice to buy a griddle?

Investing in a griddle is a wise choice. You can use a griddle in your backyard and it is the best cooking option when you go hiking or camping. Griddles have large cooktops and their versatility makes them worth buying.

What are the merits of a griddle?

The large cooking surface of the griddle helps you cook meals for large gatherings. You can also prepare several dishes simultaneously. There is a grease trap where excess oils and fats from food drain easily.

What are the demerits of a griddle?

Griddle needs regular maintenance like frequent seasoning and it takes lots of time to heat up. Blackstone griddle is a bit costly.

Cooking on a griddle is healthy or not?

Absolutely, cooking on a griddle is healthy as food does not come in contact with fire. You can prepare oil-less dishes on a griddle which promotes healthy eating.

What materials are used in the construction of the Blackstone Griddle?

The Blackstone Griddle is typically made of stainless steel or cast iron, ensuring durability and efficient heat distribution.

Can I use metal utensils on the Blackstone Griddle?

While metal utensils can be used, it's recommended to use  non-abrasive utensils to prevent scratching the seasoned surface.

How do I store the Blackstone Griddle during off-seasons or when not in use?

It's best to store the Blackstone Griddle in a dry place, covered with a protective  Griddle Cover to prevent dust accumulation and potential rusting.

Is there a warranty on the Blackstone Griddle?

Most Blackstone Griddles come with a manufacturer's warranty. It's advisable to check the warranty details with the seller or the official Blackstone website.

Can I use the Blackstone Griddle for baking?

While primarily designed for grilling and frying, with a griddle cover or dome, you can create an oven-like environment suitable for baking certain items.

Are there different sizes available for the Blackstone Griddle?

Yes, Blackstone Griddles come in various sizes, from portable units suitable for camping to larger units designed for backyard cooking.

How do I deal with flare-ups or excessive smoke while cooking?

Ensure that the griddle is clean and free from excessive oil or grease. Adjusting the heat and using a griddle cover can also help manage flare-ups.

Can I use natural gas instead of propane with the Blackstone Griddle?

Some Blackstone Griddles are designed to be compatible with natural gas. However, it's essential to check the specific model and use a conversion kit if necessary.

Are there any accessories recommended for enhancing the Blackstone Griddle cooking experience?

Accessories like griddle covers, spatulas, warming racks, and drip pans can enhance the cooking experience and make maintenance easier.

How does the Blackstone Griddle compare to other brands in the market?

Blackstone is known for its quality and durability. However, it's always a good idea to compare features, reviews, and prices with other brands before making a purchase.

Conclusion

A griddle is a popular choice when you need to cook for gatherings and want to prepare varieties of dishes. Using a griddle is easy but you must have ample time to prepare food the patience is worth it. 

Even heat distribution and excellent temperature control make cooking easy. There are some demerits associated with griddle but it does not weigh the positive ones. Blackstone griddle is a must-buy if you love cooking.