Griddle grills are perfect for making a wide range of delicious meals—from pancakes and eggs to burgers and stir-fried vegetables. But once the cooking’s over, it’s time to face the reality of cleaning. Knowing the best way of how to clean a griddle grill will not only make your cooking experience smoother but also extend the life of your equipment. Whether you’re tackling a greasy mess from a morning breakfast or dealing with a rusty surface, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
We’ll cover tips for how to clean a griddle grill after cooking, get rid of rust, and explore the magic of cleaning a Blackstone griddle with salt.
Why Cleaning Your Griddle Grill is Essential
Regular cleaning of your griddle grill is vital for several reasons. First, it ensures that your food tastes as it should, free from old food residues. A clean grill also ensures even heat distribution, prevents rust from developing, and helps you avoid any buildup that could affect performance. Plus, keeping it clean just looks better!
A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean a Griddle Grill After Cooking
After a delicious meal, it’s tempting to leave the cleanup for later. But the best way to clean a griddle grill is right after cooking, while it’s still warm but not too hot to handle.
Here’s a simple guide to get you through it:
1. Turn Off the Heat: Once you’ve finished cooking, turn off your griddle and allow it to cool slightly. You want it to be warm, but not hot enough to burn you.
2. Scrape the Surface: Use a flat griddle scraper or spatula to scrape away any leftover food debris, grease, or stuck-on bits. Work from the top down to push everything toward the grease trap.
3. Water and Steam Clean: After you’ve scraped off most of the gunk, pour a small amount of water onto the surface (not too much, just enough to create steam). The steam will help lift any stubborn grime. Use a soft cloth or non-abrasive pad to wipe down the surface, working in circular motions to remove the remaining debris.
4. Dry the Griddle: After wiping it down, dry the surface completely using a clean towel. Moisture left on the grill can cause rust over time.
5. Apply a Thin Layer of Oil: To keep your griddle in top shape and prevent rust, apply a light coat of cooking oil across the surface. This will season your griddle and keep it ready for your next cooking session.
How to Clean a Griddle Grill with Salt
Sometimes, your griddle may need a little more muscle to get completely clean, and that’s where salt comes in. Cleaning a Blackstone griddle with salt is a handy trick to remove tough grime without damaging the surface.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Sprinkle Salt on the Griddle: After turning off the heat, sprinkle coarse salt liberally over the surface of the warm griddle. Salt acts as a mild abrasive to scrub away stuck-on food without scratching the grill.
2. Scrub with a Cloth or Sponge: Using a damp cloth or sponge, scrub the griddle in circular motions. The salt will break down the grease and debris, making it easier to clean.
3. Wipe Away the Salt: Once you’ve finished scrubbing, wipe away the salt and any residue with a damp cloth. Make sure to dry the surface completely before applying a light coat of oil.
How to Clean a Rusty Griddle Top
Rust is a common problem, especially with outdoor griddles that are exposed to moisture. If you’re dealing with a rusty surface, learning how to clean a rusty griddle top is essential for restoring your grill to its former glory.
Here’s how to get rust off a Blackstone griddle grill or any other griddle:
1. Scrape Off the Rust: Start by using a metal scraper to remove as much rust as possible. Be gentle to avoid scratching the surface too deeply, but firm enough to lift the rust.
2. Use a Griddle Stone or Steel Wool: After scraping, scrub the surface with a griddle stone or steel wool to remove any remaining rust. You can also use a mixture of water and white vinegar to help loosen the rust.
3. Rinse and Dry: Wipe down the griddle with a damp cloth to remove all rust particles, then dry thoroughly to prevent further rusting.
4. Season the Griddle: Once the rust is removed, it’s time to re-season your griddle. Apply a generous coat of oil and heat the grill to high, allowing the oil to bond with the metal. Repeat this process several times to rebuild the non-stick surface.
How to Clean an Outdoor Griddle After Cooking
Outdoor griddles require a bit more care since they’re often exposed to the elements. Here’s a quick rundown on how to clean an outdoor griddle after cooking:
1. Scrape and Steam Clean: Just like with indoor griddles, scrape off any food particles and use a small amount of water to create steam for loosening stuck-on debris.
2. Dry Thoroughly: Because outdoor griddles are more prone to rust, it’s crucial to dry the surface thoroughly after cleaning.
3. Cover or Store the Griddle: Always cover your outdoor griddle when it’s not in use to protect it from rain, humidity, and dirt. Investing in a quality griddle cover will prevent rust and grime buildup, making it easier to clean after each use.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your griddle grill doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. With these easy-to-follow steps, you can keep your griddle in top condition, whether you’re wiping it down after a quick breakfast or tackling rust spots on an outdoor grill. By regularly maintaining your griddle, you’ll ensure it delivers perfect meals every time. So next time you’re wondering how to clean a griddle grill after cooking, just follow these steps, and your grill will be spotless and ready for action!