Blackstone Outdoor Griddle Review

Blackstone 1814 Portable Griddle

With multiple features in one, Blackstone 1814 is one of the best outdoor griddles that’s worth checking out. The construction is super solid as it’s made of stainless steel. It has a compact design making it suitable to carry around for camping or any outdoor activity. Additionally, it’s made of high-quality material, making it an excellent durable product.

What we like

Portable: This product is easily foldable, allowing you to keep it in your car trunk without the hassle and taking less storage space. You can easily carry around the skillet, making it an excellent outdoor grill. 

Easy to use: The flat-top grill is simple and easy to use. You can figure it out fast, even if you’re a first-time user. It doesn’t take much time for preparations, plus it heats up fast. The propane tank is easy to attach and fill, plus the flame is adjustable through a knob. Additionally, the griddle is easy to clean.

Convenient: It’s easy to carry around because of its small size. You can keep it in your bike rack or car trunk without any problem. Plus, you can place it at any counter space without needing a particular base.

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How long do Blackstone griddles last?

Various factors can shorten the longevity of a griddle. A Blackstone griddle can last up to twenty years or more if adequate care and maintenance. However, one of the main reasons would be lack of cleaning. It’s vital to clean grills after every use so that food wastes don’t stick hard and you don’t have to scrape the surface aggressively. 

Do Blackstone griddles rust?

If there is no proper maintenance, the answer is yes, and it applies to any griddles. After cooking, it’s essential to clean the grill to avoid corrosion or rust. Plus, it’s unhygienic to leave food particles unattended. 

Can you use PAM on a Blackstone griddle?

Yes, you can use PAM on a Blackstone griddle; however, it would be better to look for other alternatives. Undeniably, it’s a good cooking spray, but health experts have raised issues over its ingredients. It contains some harmful ingredients, including Genetically Modified Organisms(GMOs), known for causing life-threatening diseases. And it’s not surprising that many health enthusiasts avoid this cooking spray. There are healthier cooking oils available in the market today. So, opt for a healthier oil if possible.

Are Walmart Blackstone griddles different?

No, they are the same! However, if you get it from Walmart, you will get a black griddle, whereas, on the official site, it’s available in stainless steel. Additionally, if you want to buy a bundle that includes a hood or stands, purchasing from Walmart would be a good choice. 

Can you cook in a cast iron skillet on a Blackstone griddle?

Yes, you can cook in a cast-iron skillet on a Blackstone griddle and do multiple cooking at once. Additionally, it would be better to use cast iron instead of a non-stick skillet to avoid scratches on the surface. 

What is the best oil to use on a Blackstone griddle?

If you’re using the griddle for the first time, it would be better to opt for flaxseed oil. You can choose multiple oils, including canola oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, and more. However, if your skillet is new and hasn’t seasoned it, flaxseed oil would be a better choice as it gives better layering. Additionally, it’s advisable to avoid animal fat for first seasoning on your Blackstone griddle

What should I put on my Blackstone griddle?

There are plenty of recipes you make in your Blackstone griddle. From pancakes to fried rice, you can make it all at once. Most Blackstone griddles have a spacious surface allowing you to make different foods at once. Additionally, you can put a cast iron skillet to make dishes.

Are Blackstone griddles made in China?

Blackstone is a US-based company with its headquarters in Utah. The products are engineered and designed in the home country but manufactured in China. However, you can be assured of the quality of the products.  

Can you use a Blackstone griddle in the garage?

Blackstone griddles are designed primarily for outdoor use, and it would be better to avoid using them inside a garage. A  Blackstone griddle runs through a propane gas which produces carbon monoxide that can be pretty harmful in a closed space. If your garage has proper ventilation, then there is no issue. However, make sure that all flammable things, including gasoline and paints, are far away from the skillet. 

Do you have to season a Blackstone griddle?

Yes, it’s vital to season a Blackstone griddle to avoid sticking and enhance the flavor. Seasoning has a different meaning concerning the griddle. Here before cooking, the flat top surface is oiled first. That way, it prevents the food from sticking to the surface and adds flavor to your meal. If you own a griddle, it’s vital to undergo seasoning first. And to do this, you’ll need water, olive oil, tongs, paper towels, and soap.

If you’re doing it for the first time, you need to first wash it off with soap to get rid of dust and protectant. You can use a cloth to rinse the water and dry it for some time. After it’s dried, preheat the flat top surface for 10-15 minutes and once it darkens, switch off the burner. Now put olive oil onto the surface; you can use any oil types you want and spread it evenly through a cloth or a paper towel. Let the oil smoke until it settles down. 

Add the oil again and continue the same process four or five times till the surface gets dark. When you do this, it creates a natural non-stick coating, plus increases the lifespan of your griddle. Now that it’s seasoned, you can make food without any issue. Also, you don’t have to go through the entire process of seasoning for the next meal. The seasoning will stay intact if you do a proper cleaning.

Can you smoke meat on a Blackstone griddle?

Blackstone griddles are known for their versatility, so it’s no surprise that you can cook smoked meat without hassle. Because of the seasoning, the meat doesn’t stick to the surface, making the process simple and easy. It might be difficult for beginners to adjust to heat, but you will get used to it with time. 

What is the proper way to clean a griddle?

The cleaning process of a griddle is simple and easy to follow. Before you start cleaning, you will need:

• Paper towel
• Scraper
• Vegetable oil
• Tongs

First, heat the grill and make sure it’s warm enough to get rid of the gunk, if there is any. Use a scraper to remove the dirt, and be careful not to do it aggressively. 

After removing the gunk, take a paper towel to wipe off the food particles. Now, add a thin layer of oil to the surface while it’s still hot and spread it evenly through a paper towel. That way, you’re set to prepare your next meal without having to go through the seasoning process.