If you own a griddle, then you know how important it is to keep it properly seasoned. Seasoning is the process of adding a layer of oil to the surface of the griddle and heating it to create a non-stick surface. Not only does this make it easier to cook on, but it also helps protect the griddle from rust and other types of damage.
When it comes to choosing the best oil for seasoning your griddle, there are several options to consider. In this article, we’ll take a look at the 8 top picks, and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Criteria for Choosing the Best Oil for Seasoning Griddle
Before we dive into our top picks, it’s important to understand the criteria we used to evaluate each oil. Here are the key factors to consider:
Smoke Point
The smoke point of an oil is the temperature at which it starts to smoke and break down. When seasoning a griddle, you want an oil with a high smoke point so that it can withstand the heat of the griddle without burning or smoking too much. Oils with low smoke points are not suitable for seasoning a griddle because they will break down and form a sticky residue on the surface.
Flavor
The flavor of the oil you use to season your griddle can impact the taste of your food. If you want to maintain the natural flavor of your food, you may want to choose an oil with a neutral flavor. However, if you want to add some flavor to your food, you can opt for an oil with a distinct taste, such as coconut oil or avocado oil.
Nutritional Value
If you’re health-conscious, you may want to choose an oil that is high in healthy fats and nutrients. Some oils, like coconut oil and avocado oil, are known for their health benefits and are a great choice for seasoning a griddle.
Availability
It’s important to choose an oil that is readily available at your local grocery store or online. This will save you time and money in the long run, as you won’t have to search for a specific type of oil every time you need to season your griddle.
Affordability
The cost of the oil is also an important factor to consider. While some oils may be more expensive than others, you don’t necessarily need to spend a lot of money to get a good quality oil for seasoning your griddle.
9 Best Oil for Seasoning Griddle
Looking to find the best oil for seasoning your griddle? There are plenty of options out there, each with their own unique properties and benefits. Here are some of the top oils to consider for seasoning and cooking on your griddle.
Vegetable Oil
One of the most popular oils for seasoning the griddle is vegetable oil. While it’s true that canola oil has a lower saturated fat content and a higher smoke point, vegetable oil is still a great option with a smoke point of 400-450 degrees. Plus, it’s a versatile blend of oils that works well for a wide range of recipes.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
For those looking for a healthier oil option, extra-virgin olive oil is a great choice. With a smoke point of 350-400 degrees, it may not be the highest, but it’s still great for most cooking applications. And, unlike vegetable oil, it’s loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that provide a range of health benefits. Plus, it has a delicious flavor that many people love.
Olive Oil
If you’re looking for an oil with a higher smoke point than extra-virgin olive oil, consider regular olive oil. With a smoke point of 375-425 degrees, it’s perfect for high-heat cooking on the Blackstone. While it may not have quite as many health benefits as extra-virgin olive oil, it’s still a healthy and flavorful option.
Avocado Oil
Another healthy oil to consider is avocado oil, which has a smoke point of 520 degrees. This makes it ideal for high-heat cooking, but it’s also a bit pricier than some of the other oils on this list. However, it has been shown to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, making it a great option for those looking to improve their overall health.
Peanut Oil
Popular in many Asian dishes, peanut oil has a smoke point of 450 degrees and a nutty flavor that many people enjoy. It also contains vitamins and antioxidants, though it is high in omega-6 fats, which can cause inflammation in some people.
Flax Seed Oil
While Blackstone used to recommend flax seed oil for seasoning, it has since been replaced by other oils due to its low smoke point of 225 degrees and high cost. However, it is a great food-grade oil that can naturally create a hard seasoning on your griddle.
Canola Oil
Canola oil is a popular option for griddlers thanks to its high smoke point of 450-470 degrees and lower cost compared to other oils. While it may not have quite as many health benefits as some of the other oils on this list, it’s still a good option for seasoning and cooking on your griddle.
Grape Seed Oil
With a smoke point of 390 degrees, grape seed oil is another best oil for seasoning griddle. It has a flavor similar to extra-virgin olive oil and contains a range of health benefits, though it is also high in omega-6 fats.
Sunflower Oil
Finally, sunflower oil is another great choice. With a high smoke point of 440 degrees, it’s perfect for high-heat cooking, though it may be a bit pricier than some of the other options on this list.
Conclusion
Are you ready to take your griddling game to the next level? Look no further than the best oils for seasoning your griddle! But before you start pouring just any oil onto your cooking surface, there’s one crucial detail you need to keep in mind – the smoking point. To ensure your griddle stays in top-notch condition, you’ll want to use an oil with a high heat smoking point of at least 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
