Blackstone 36 Griddle Cooking Station Pro Series

Introduction

The Blackstone 36″ Griddle Cooking Station Pro Series has become a backyard staple for many home cooks and outdoor entertaining enthusiasts. Its expansive cooking surface and even heat distribution make it perfect for preparing large meals, from breakfast feasts to sizzling stir-fries. The griddle’s versatility allows for diverse culinary creations, making it a popular choice for those seeking a convenient and efficient way to cook outdoors.

Ingredients

The beauty of the Blackstone 36″ Griddle Cooking Station Pro Series lies in its ability to accommodate a wide variety of ingredients. Consider these basics, which can be adapted to almost any griddle recipe:

Protein: Burgers, steaks, chicken breasts, shrimp, sausage, bacon, or tofu. Consider marinating proteins for added flavor.
Vegetables: Onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, asparagus, corn, or potatoes. Pre-chopping vegetables ensures even cooking.
Fats: Cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado oil are excellent choices), butter, or bacon grease. These prevent sticking and contribute to flavor.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, or your favorite spice blends. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Buns/Wraps: Burger buns, tortillas, lettuce wraps, or pita bread. These provide a vessel for your delicious creations.

Substitutions are easily made based on dietary restrictions or personal preference. For example, plant-based burgers can replace beef, and gluten-free wraps can be used instead of traditional tortillas.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is key to a successful griddle cooking experience. Begin by gathering all necessary ingredients and equipment. Chop vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Marinate meats or tofu for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer, to enhance flavor and tenderness. Prepare any sauces or toppings you plan to use. Lightly oil the griddle surface with a high-smoke-point oil. Preheat the Blackstone 36″ Griddle Cooking Station Pro Series to the desired temperature. A clean griddle surface is essential; use a scraper to remove any debris from previous cooks.

Cooking Instructions

Cooking on the Blackstone 36″ Griddle Cooking Station Pro Series involves several steps:

Preheat: Turn on the burners and preheat the griddle to medium-high heat (approximately 350-400F). This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Use an infrared thermometer to verify the temperature.
Add Fat: Once preheated, add a thin layer of cooking oil or butter to the griddle surface.
Cook Proteins: Place proteins on the griddle, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly. For burgers, cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. Chicken breasts will take longer, about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165F.
Add Vegetables: Add vegetables to the griddle, typically after the proteins have started cooking. Heartier vegetables like onions and potatoes should be added first, followed by quicker-cooking vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Season and Flip: Season proteins and vegetables with salt, pepper, and other desired spices. Flip proteins and vegetables as needed to ensure even cooking.
Monitor Temperature: Monitor the temperature of the griddle throughout the cooking process. Adjust the burners as needed to maintain the desired temperature.
Cook Times (Approximate): Burgers: 4-5 minutes per side (medium) Chicken Breasts: 6-8 minutes per side (165F internal) Sausage: 8-10 minutes, turning frequently Shrimp: 2-3 minutes per side (opaque and pink) Onions & Peppers: 8-10 minutes, until softened Zucchini: 4-6 minutes, until tender Asparagus: 5-7 minutes, until tender-crisp Bacon: 8-10 minutes until desired crispness

Serving Suggestions

The Blackstone 36″ Griddle Cooking Station Pro Series lends itself to a variety of serving options. Burgers can be served on toasted buns with your favorite toppings. Grilled chicken breasts can be sliced and added to salads or served with rice and grilled vegetables. Shrimp can be used in tacos or served as an appetizer with cocktail sauce. For a simple and satisfying meal, try a stir-fry with your favorite vegetables and protein, served over rice or noodles. Consider adding a flavorful sauce, such as teriyaki or sweet chili sauce, to enhance the dish.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To maximize the potential of the Blackstone 36″ Griddle Cooking Station Pro Series, keep these tips in mind:

Preheating is Crucial: Allow ample time for preheating to ensure even cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the griddle, as this can lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
Use a High-Smoke-Point Oil: Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or avocado oil, to prevent burning and off-flavors.
Clean as You Go: Scrape the griddle surface frequently to remove any debris and prevent sticking.
Control the Heat: Utilize the multiple burners to create different heat zones on the griddle.
Don’t Overcook: Monitor the internal temperature of proteins to avoid overcooking.

A common mistake is not properly seasoning the griddle. Over time, the griddle will develop a natural non-stick surface if properly seasoned and maintained.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Mastering the Blackstone 36″ Griddle Cooking Station Pro Series opens a world of culinary possibilities. Its ability to create delicious, customizable meals makes it a valuable asset for any home cook. From simple weeknight dinners to elaborate weekend gatherings, the griddle provides a convenient and efficient way to feed a crowd. Its versatility and ease of use make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced cooks. Get started with these tips and tricks, and discover the endless possibilities that the Blackstone 36″ Griddle Cooking Station Pro Series has to offer. For more inspiration and cooking guides, visit foodrecipestory.com and unlock the secrets to creating culinary masterpieces in your own backyard!