Seasoning a flat top griddle is an important process that helps protect the cooking surface and enhances the flavor of foods cooked on it. Proper seasoning creates a natural non-stick surface. New griddles need to be seasoned before first use. Over time and with regular use, the seasoning may wear thin in spots and need to be reapplied. Knowing how long the seasoning process takes allows you to properly dedicate the time and steps needed to end up with a great cooking surface.
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What is Seasoning?
Seasoning is the process of building up layers of oil that have been heated onto the cooking surface. As the oil is heated, it undergoes a chemical reaction called polymerization. The oil bonds to the metal, forming a coating. Additional layers are added over time. The seasoning creates a protective barrier, preventing foods from interacting directly with the metal. It provides a smooth, non-stick cooking surface. The oil also imparts a subtle flavor.
How Long Does Initial Seasoning Take?
Initial seasoning of a new flat top griddle takes 2-3 hours from start to finish. It involves thoroughly cleaning the griddle, applying a thin layer of oil, and heating the griddle multiple times. The process allows the oil to bond with the metal through polymerization.
Here are the basic steps and time estimates:
Cleaning
– Wash with hot soapy water and scrub any residual factory coatings or oils from the surface using steel wool or a griddle brick – 30 minutes
Oiling
– Apply a thin, even layer of high smoke point oil like canola, vegetable, avocado or grapeseed oil – 10 minutes
Heating
– Heat the griddle on medium for 20-30 minutes to open the pores of the metal
– Allow griddle to cool completely – 30 minutes
– Apply another thin layer of fresh oil – 10 minutes
– Heat griddle on medium for 30-40 minutes until oil darkens – 40 minutes
– Allow griddle to cool again – 30 minutes
– Apply a final thin layer of fresh oil – 10 minutes
– Heat griddle on low for 60 minutes – 60 minutes
The initial oiling, heating, and cooling cycle allows the oil to penetrate into the pores of the metal. Repeating the process fills more pores and bonds additional layers of polymerized oil. After the initial seasoning, the griddle is ready for use.
How Long Does Re-Seasoning Take?
Over time, the seasoning on a well-used flat top griddle may wear thin in spots or become uneven. Regular maintenance helps preserve seasoning. But periodically, you may need to re-season the cooking surface. Re-seasoning takes less time than the initial seasoning. The process is similar but fewer repetitions are needed.
Here are the basic steps and time estimates for re-seasoning a flat top griddle:
Cleaning
– Scrub griddle with hot soapy water and a griddle brick – 20 minutes
– Rinse and dry thoroughly – 10 minutes
Oiling
– Apply a thin layer of oil to the cooking surface – 10 minutes
Heating
– Heat griddle on medium for 15-20 minutes – 20 minutes
– Allow griddle to cool – 20 minutes
– Apply a fresh thin layer of oil – 10 minutes
– Heat griddle on low-medium for 45 minutes, until oil darkens – 45 minutes
– Allow griddle to cool completely – 20 minutes
After re-seasoning, the griddle will have an evenly restored dark patina. The process takes 2-3 hours from start to finish. Regular stove-top seasoning maintains the griddle between deep re-seasoning.
Tips for Faster Seasoning
There are a few tricks that can shorten the seasoning process a bit:
- Use a higher smoke point oil like avocado, grapeseed or refined peanut oil which polymerizes fastest at high heat.
- Season in the oven instead of on the stove. Oven seasoning goes a little faster.
- Use a seasoning blend like peanut, canola and flaxseed oils to speed polymerization.
- Season at a slightly higher temperature – medium-high instead of medium.
- Wipe off excess oil so the layer is thin and heats efficiently.
With these tips, initial seasoning may be reduced to 1 1/2 – 2 hours and re-seasoning to 1 – 1 1/2 hours. But the standard times still allow the seasoning to fully set. Rushing the process risks uneven seasoning.
Maintenance to Extend Seasoning
To keep the seasoning intact longer between re-applications:
- Avoid overheating the griddle for long periods, which can break down the seasoning.
- Clean gently with a brush, scraper and hot water instead of harsh cleaners.
- Apply a micro-thin layer of oil after each use while the griddle is still warm.
- Store seasoned side up to minimize exposure to moisture.
- Avoid cooling a hot griddle with cold water, which can damage seasoning.
With proper care between seasons, seasoning can last for years before needing to be redone.
Signs It’s Time to Re-Season
Look for these signs that indicate it’s time to deep clean and re-season the flat top griddle:
- Food begins to stick when cooking.
- The cooking surface feels rough.
- Sections of the patina appear worn, faded or spotty.
- Rust spots begin forming.
- Oil no longer beads on the surface.
- Foods leave traces or stains.
- The griddle has a metallic smell or taste.
When these happen, it’s time to scrub away any residue buildup and re-establish the non-stick seasoning layer.
The Benefits of Proper Seasoning
Putting in the time up front to properly season a new flat top griddle provides ongoing benefits:
- Non-Stick Surface – Food releases easily instead of sticking.
- Protection – Seasoning prevents corrosion and rust.
- Smoother Cooking – The patina fills in scratches and pits.
- Better Flavor – Seasoning provides a natural enhancement.
- Easier Cleaning – Food residue wipes away without scrubbing.
- Longer Life – Seasoning protects from wear and tear.
The time invested makes cooking on a well-cared for flat top griddle a great experience.
Conclusion
Seasoning a new flat top griddle takes about 2-3 hours for the initial seasoning. Once the griddle is broken in, re-seasoning periodically takes 1-2 hours. Using the right oils and temperatures can shorten the process a bit. But allowing enough time for each layer to fully polymerize is key. With proper maintenance between seasons, the seasoning can last for years before needing to be redone. Taking the time up front to season a flat top griddle provides ongoing benefits like a non-stick surface, protection from corrosion, better flavor, and easier cleaning.