Blackstone Proseries 36 Griddle Cooking Station

Introduction

The Blackstone ProSeries 36″ Griddle Cooking Station has surged in popularity as an outdoor cooking appliance, offering a versatile and expansive surface for preparing a wide range of dishes. Its large, flat top provides even heat distribution, making it ideal for cooking everything from breakfast staples like pancakes and bacon to stir-fries, fajitas, and even smash burgers. The ease of use and cleanup, combined with the ability to cook for large groups, contribute to its widespread adoption in both homes and professional settings.

Ingredients

The beauty of the Blackstone ProSeries 36″ Griddle Cooking Station lies in its versatility. There isn’t a single “recipe” but rather a cooking method. Therefore, the ingredients depend entirely on the dish being prepared. However, some common ingredients used on a griddle include:

Proteins: Burgers, steaks, chicken breasts, sausage, bacon, shrimp, fish fillets.
Vegetables: Onions, peppers, zucchini, squash, mushrooms, asparagus, broccoli, corn.
Starches: Potatoes (sliced, diced, or shredded), rice (fried rice), tortillas (for quesadillas or tacos), bread (for grilled cheese).
Dairy/Eggs: Eggs (scrambled, fried, omelets), cheese (for burgers, quesadillas).
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, soy sauce, teriyaki sauce.
Oils: Vegetable oil, canola oil, avocado oil (for the griddle surface). Avoid olive oil, as it has a low smoke point.

Substitutions are readily available depending on dietary restrictions or preferences. For example, plant-based burgers can replace beef patties, and gluten-free tortillas can be used for those with gluten sensitivities.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is key to successful griddle cooking. Here’s a general outline:

Seasoning the Griddle: Before the first use, it’s crucial to season the griddle. Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the entire surface, heat it to medium-high until it smokes, and then let it cool. Repeat this process 3-4 times to create a non-stick surface. Continue seasoning it after each use.
Ingredient Prep: Wash and chop vegetables as needed. Marinate proteins for added flavor. Prepare sauces or seasonings in advance.
Portioning: Cut ingredients into uniform sizes for even cooking. Consider the cooking time of each ingredient; those that take longer (like potatoes) should be cut smaller.
Organization: Have all ingredients readily available near the griddle. Keep spatulas, tongs, and other cooking utensils within easy reach.

Cooking Instructions

Cooking on the Blackstone ProSeries 36″ Griddle Cooking Station involves precise temperature control and awareness of cooking times. Here’s a guide to cooking various food types:

Burgers: Preheat the griddle to medium-high heat. Place seasoned burger patties on the griddle and cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on desired doneness. Use a spatula to smash the patties slightly for a crispy edge.
Vegetables: Preheat the griddle to medium heat. Toss vegetables with oil and seasonings. Cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender-crisp. For softer vegetables, lower the heat slightly and cover with a lid or a dome.
Eggs: Preheat the griddle to medium-low heat. Crack eggs directly onto the griddle. Cook for 2-3 minutes for sunny-side-up or over-easy, or scramble them using a spatula.
Pancakes: Preheat the griddle to medium-low heat. Pour batter onto the griddle in desired sizes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Fajitas: Preheat the griddle to medium-high heat. Cook sliced onions and peppers for 5-7 minutes, then add marinated steak or chicken. Cook until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Cooking times are approximate and may vary depending on the thickness of the ingredients and the temperature of the griddle. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proteins are cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Serving Suggestions

The Blackstone ProSeries 36″ Griddle Cooking Station facilitates versatile serving options:

Burgers: Serve on buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and condiments.
Vegetables: Serve as a side dish, in salads, or as a topping for pizzas or tacos.
Eggs: Serve with toast, bacon, and potatoes for a complete breakfast.
Pancakes: Serve with syrup, butter, fruit, and whipped cream.
Fajitas: Serve with warm tortillas, salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and cheese.

Experiment with different sauces, seasonings, and accompaniments to create unique and flavorful dishes.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Here are some helpful tips to avoid common mistakes when cooking on a griddle:

Don’t Overcrowd the Griddle: Cooking too much food at once can lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking. Work in batches if necessary.
Control the Heat: The Blackstone ProSeries 36″ Griddle Cooking Station offers precise temperature control. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning or undercooking.
Use the Right Oils: Avoid using olive oil, as it has a low smoke point and can burn easily. Opt for vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil.
Clean the Griddle Regularly: Use a scraper to remove food debris and excess oil during cooking. This will prevent buildup and ensure even heat distribution.
Don’t Forget to Season: Seasoning the griddle after each use will help maintain its non-stick surface and prevent rust.
Use a thermometer to check doneness for protein: This will ensure that food safe temperature.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering the Blackstone ProSeries 36″ Griddle Cooking Station opens a world of culinary possibilities. Its adaptability, expansive cooking area, and ease of use make it an indispensable tool for both casual home cooks and experienced grill masters. With the ability to prepare everything from breakfast feasts to sizzling fajitas, the griddle brings flavor and efficiency to outdoor cooking. Embrace the versatility, experiment with flavors, and elevate your outdoor dining experience. For more cooking guides, recipe inspiration, and tips, visit foodrecipestory.com. Unlock your culinary potential and enjoy the art of griddle cooking!