The Blackstone 17-inch Griddle excels in compactness and versatility, ideal for both novice and seasoned grillers. This guide takes a look at its construction and suitability for ease of transport. We detail the griddle’s setup, focusing on assembly simplicity and vital safety considerations. We’re also talking practical advice on temperature control and identifying the best meal types best suited for this model. One of the biggest concerns for outdoor cooks is post-use care, so I provide straightforward cleaning methods and essential maintenance tips to prolong the griddle’s life. Additionally, we explore compatible accessories that enhance the grilling experience and compare the 17-inch model with other Blackstone variants to aid in selecting the right griddle. Lastly, the guide presents an array of inventive recipes, encouraging culinary exploration on the 17-inch griddle.
Key Features of the Blackstone 17-Inch Griddle
The Blackstone 17-Inch Griddle is a compact outdoor cooking appliance, powered by propane gas, that combines durability with ease of use. It’s specifically designed for portability, allowing you to enjoy outdoor cooking wherever you go.
These griddles are known for their durability and versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of outdoor cooking activities like camping and tailgating.
You’ll find robust features such as a high heat output, typically around 12,000 BTUs, which allows you to cook efficiently. When considering a Blackstone 17-Inch Griddle, you can expect a compact design that provides ease of transport with additional options that may include a hood, stand, or both.
Of particular note is the ease of maintenance with models featuring innovative grease management systems. Should you be eyeing the Blackstone 17-Inch Tabletop Griddle, for example, your culinary endeavors could be complemented by convenience and quality, whether you’re flipping burgers in your backyard or searing steaks at your favorite picnic spot.
Details of the Griddle’s Dimensions and Build Quality
The Blackstone 17-inch Griddle presents a well-constructed cooking surface made from cold-rolled steel, measuring 17 inches across with a total cooking space of 267 square inches. Stability and longevity are assured through its solid steel frame, which is built to resist wear and tear from regular outdoor use.
- Dimensions: 17″ Width x 18″ Depth x 8.5″ Height
- Material: Cold-rolled steel cooking surface, stainless steel burner, steel frame
- Weight: Lightweight and designed for easy transportation
Cooking with the Blackstone 17-Inch Griddle
The Blackstone 17-Inch Griddle allows for a versatile cooking experience, perfect for various meals from breakfast to dinner when you’re camping or simply enjoying outdoor cooking at home (or a variety of other options we’ll talk about shortly).
This flat top cooking surface delivers incredible flexibility and space to cook a wide variety of meals with ease, from hearty breakfasts to delicious dinners.
Range of Meals – Breakfast to Dinner
The Blackstone Griddle excels at one of my family’s favorites – breakfast on the grill You easily create fluffy pancakes, perfectly fried eggs, and crispy bacon strips simultaneously. Meat, including burgers and BBQ specialties, can be seared and grilled to perfection for lunch or dinner due to it’s superior temperature control. You can cook a single type of food or a full meal that requires different temperatures and techniques at the same time.
- Prepare pancakes by pouring batter onto the lightly oiled griddle surface; they cook uniformly and flip easily.
- Fry eggs to your preference, whether you’re aiming for sunny-side up or over-easy.
- Grill bacon strips alongside your eggs for a classic breakfast combination.
- For dinner, sear burgers for a savory, juicy meal; the high heat ensures a delectable crust with a tender interior.
- The Blackstone Griddle is also ideal for BBQ items like steaks or chicken, offering ample room for various cuts of meat.
Adaptability for Different Cuisines
The portable griddle provides culinary adaptability; it’s versatile enough for dishes from different cuisines. Whether you’re aiming to cook Mexican fajitas or Asian stir-fries, Blackstone 17 handles various ingredients and cooking styles with its adjustable heat settings and spacious cooking surface.
- Make use of the griddle’s consistent heating to sauté vegetables or sear different meats for international dishes.
- Utilize the easy-clean surface to transition between cuisines without lingering flavors.
By providing a flat cooking area, the Blackstone enables you to try your hand at global recipes traditionally prepared on a plancha or teppanyaki grill.
One of my favorites is to do hibachi-style dinners on our Blackstone – it’s like bringing a bit of that restaurant magic right to our backyard, complete with all the delicious flavors and a dash of showmanship.
Portability and Convenience
The Blackstone 17-Inch Portable Griddle is designed for on-the-go cooking, combining convenience with exceptional portability.
Ease of Transport for Outdoor Activities
Portable refers to an object that can be easily carried or moved. In the context of the Blackstone Portable Griddle, this translates to a compact and lightweight design, allowing you to transport it to various outdoor locations without significant effort. The unit is equipped with a built-in propane adapter that connects to a propane tank, ensuring you can fire up the griddle in remote areas, be it for an RV trip or a tailgate party. Carry handles are integrated into the griddle, promoting effortless movement from your vehicle to the cooking site.
Setup and Breakdown Efficiency
Begin the setup process by attaching the propane tank. The griddle operates on a one-pound propane tank, streamlining the connection process without the need for tools. To start cooking, simply turn the control knob to ignite the burner. After use, the Blackstone Adventure Ready 17″ Griddle cools down rapidly for a quick breakdown. The hood protects the cooking surface and ensures you can pack the grille cleanly. The griddle’s design allows for a swift transition from cooking to clean-up, leading to an efficient breakdown that simplifies your outdoor cooking endeavors.
What Are The Real-World Practical Uses?
The Blackstone 17-Inch Portable Griddle offers versatile cooking options for outdoor enthusiasts and small-space dwellers alike due to its compact design and even heat distribution.
Camping Adventures
A camping trip typically involves cooking in the outdoors. You can prepare a variety of meals on the Blackstone Griddle, from pancakes to steaks. It uses propane fuel, which is convenient for campsites that prohibit open fires.
Tailgating Events
Tailgating events often precede sporting events or concerts and involve socializing around vehicles. With the griddle, you can quickly cook hotdogs and hamburgers while enjoying the pre-game festivity. Its portability ensures easy setup in parking lots or open fields.
Backyard Barbecues & Block Parties
Backyard barbecues and block parties are gatherings in residential outdoor spaces. You can feed a crowd with the Blackstone Griddle by preparing a large batch of barbecue staples like chicken, burgers, and vegetables simultaneously. Need to part of the grilling team for the block party? No problem. Setting up your 17 inch Blackstone with the grilling crew is easy as can be.
Road Trips and RV Travel
During road trips or RV travel, cooking convenience is crucial. You can use the griddle for on-the-go meals, as it can be stored easily in small compartments and provides a reliable cooking surface at rest stops or campgrounds.
Small Outdoor Spaces
For those with limited outdoor space, such as apartment balconies, the Blackstone Griddle is a practical choice. You get the pleasure of grilling without the space consumption of traditional grills, making it easier to enjoy grilled foods in compact areas.
Temperature Control: How To Best Use It for Cooking
Mastering temperature control on the Blackstone 17-Inch Portable Griddle is crucial for ensuring that your food is cooked evenly and to perfection.
Strategies for Even Cooking
Temperature control refers to the regulation of heat to maintain a desired cooking temperature throughout the cooking process. For even cooking, it’s essential to let the steel cooking space heat uniformly before placing your food.
- Preheat the griddle for at least 5 to 10 minutes, adjusting the temperature dial to a medium to medium-high level depending on the food you are cooking. You have to get that thing up to the correct heat before anything.
- Use the water droplet test: Scatter a few drops of water on the surface. A ready griddle will cause the water droplets to dance.
- Once the correct temperature is achieved, place your food items on the griddle in sections, leaving space between them to allow for proper heat circulation.
- Move the food items to different zones on the griddle as needed. The center might cook faster as it’s often the hottest point, so rotate foods from the center to the edge and vice versa.
Remember, steel retains heat well, which is beneficial for maintaining a consistent temperature. However, it can also cause hotspots.
Cooking Order on Your 17 Inch Blackstone Griddle
Determining the order of items to cook is strategic for successful use of the griddle’s space and temperature control.
- Start with foods that require the highest temperature or that take the longest to cook, such as meats and denser vegetables.
- Proceed with items that need moderate heat, like pancakes or eggs. These should be cooked once you’ve established a steady temperature after the initial batch of food.
- Finish with items that require low heat or just need to be warmed through.
Make sure that these transitions in cooking temperature are not abrupt to prevent warping the steel or creating extreme hot spots. Gradually reduce the heat and use the cooler edges of the griddle for items requiring less heat and less cook time.
17 Inch Blackstone Griddle Cooking Capacity
The 17-inch Blackstone griddle provides a convenient and efficient way to cook a variety of foods, offering a balance of size and portability.
Meal Volume and Serving Sizes
Your Blackstone 17 griddle can comfortably cook meals for a small group. For instance, you can serve up to four people by preparing:
- Eight burgers or
- Four steaks simultaneously.
This griddle’s surface accommodates various serving sizes, responding to your diverse culinary needs.
Spatial Organization for Different Foods
To optimize your cooking space on the 17″ tabletop Blackstone griddle:
- Allocate areas for different food types, such as a section for vegetables and another for proteins.
- Arrange foods based on cook times; start with foods that take longer and add quicker-cooking items later.
- Utilize corner spaces for warming buns or melting cheese as your main items cook in the centrally-heated zones.
By managing the spatial layout, you enhance your ability to cook multiple foods efficiently.
Tips for Heat Management and Distribution
Master the heat by starting your griddle on a low setting to warm up, and then adjust as needed for different foods. For even heat distribution, the griddle should be preheated for 10-15 minutes. This ensures your pancake or burger cooks uniformly.
- Identify hot spots by observing how different foods cook in various griddle areas.
- Move foods around if necessary, from hotter to cooler parts, to cook evenly.
- Use a thermometer if you’re unsure about the temperature in different griddle zones.
For specific meals like bacon or eggs, a medium heat setting typically works well to cook thoroughly without burning.
Best Types of Meals and Dishes Best Suited for the 17-Inch Size
This compact griddle is ideal for small families or couples on a camping trip. It fits nicely in a camp setup due to its size and portability.
- Breakfast: Eggs, pancakes, and bacon are a perfect match for the griddle’s surface, allowing you to cook each component simultaneously.
- Lunch and Dinner: Burgers, small steaks, or grilled sandwiches make for a quick and hearty meal; you can also whip up a variety of vegetable side dishes.
For the outdoor enthusiast, the 17-inch Blackstone proves to be a practical choice, as it doesn’t require the space that larger models do and still offers ample room to cook a variety of recipes.
What Is the Blackstone Griddle Made of?
The Blackstone 17-Inch Portable Griddle features a cooktop crafted from durable materials designed to withstand regular use and varying elements.
Thick, Cold-Rolled Steel Cooktop
Your Blackstone Griddle comes with a thick, cold-rolled steel cooktop renowned for its excellent heat retention and distribution. This material ensures a consistent cooking temperature crucial for preparing a range of dishes.
Resistant to Warping
The cooktop’s steel is resistant to warping, meaning it maintains its shape under high temperatures. Your griddle’s surface will remain flat and even, providing reliability through extensive use.
Single Stainless Steel H Burner
Beneath the cooktop lies a single stainless steel H burner, designed to offer even heating across the griddle’s surface. The use of stainless steel provides longevity and aids in preventing corrosion and rust.
High-Quality Materials
Blackstone uses high-quality materials for the entire construction of the griddle, including steel for the cooktop and stainless steel for the burner. These materials support the product’s durability and performance.
Blackstone 17 Inch: How Easy Is It To Clean?
Cleaning the Blackstone 17-Inch Portable Griddle is designed to be straightforward thanks to its patented features.
Patented Rear Grease Management System for Quick Cleanups
The Blackstone 17-inch griddle includes a Patented Rear Grease Management System which simplifies the cleanup process. This system specifically directs grease and food residue away from the cooking surface into a rear grease trap. To clean this component:
- Slide the grease tray out.
- Wipe the tray with a paper towel or cloth to remove excess grease.
- Wash the tray with soapy water if necessary, then rinse and dry.
By consistently following these steps, you maintain a clean griddle surface and a functional grease management system.
Routine Cleaning Process and Tackling Stubborn Residues
For regular maintenance of your Blackstone griddle’s cooking surface, perform these basic cleaning tasks:
- Let the griddle cool down after use.
- Scrape off food particles with a metal spatula or scraper.
- Wipe the surface with a paper towel to remove loose debris.
For stubborn residues:
- Heat the griddle slightly to warm, but not hot.
- Pour a small amount of water on the griddle to loosen stuck-on food.
- Scrub the surface with a grill stone or scouring pad.
- Rinse the griddle with clean water and dry thoroughly before storage.
Proper and consistent cleaning will keep your Blackstone griddle in top condition for frequent use.
Blackstone 17 Inch: How Easy Is It to Use?
Ease of use refers to the simplicity with which you can operate a device without prior in-depth knowledge or effort. The Blackstone 17-inch Portable Griddle exemplifies user-friendliness with its straightforward controls and convenient features.
Easy-Start Ignition and Simple Heat Control
Press the igniter button to activate the easy-start ignition—a single push provides a reliable flame every time. Adjust the heat with precision using the temperature control knob, which operates smoothly to maintain even cooking temperatures across the griddle’s surface.
- Initiate: Press the igniter to start.
- Adjust: Turn the knob for desired heat level.
Initial Learning Curve and User-Friendly Features
Get acquainted with the Blackstone griddle by reading the instructional manual, which will guide you through the initial setup and use. The griddle’s layout is designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive placement of the ignition and simple to understand and use control knob, ensuring you can start cooking with minimal fuss.
- Study: Review the manual for setup guidance.
- Utilize: Enjoy the straightforward operation of features.
Blackstone 17 Inch: How Durable Is It?
Durability refers to the ability to withstand wear, pressure, or damage. When you’re considering the Blackstone 17-Inch Portable Griddle, you’re looking at a durable outdoor cooking appliance backed by solid workmanship and quality materials.
Build Quality and Materials
The Blackstone 17-Inch Portable Griddle features a sturdy powder-coated black steel frame and a thick, cold-rolled steel cooktop. This choice of materials enhances its resistance to rust and corrosion, contributing significantly to the griddle’s robustness. You’ll find the stainless steel burners and durable knobs are well-crafted, offering assurance of longevity with proper maintenance.
Longevity and Wear Resistance
Your Blackstone Griddle is designed for longevity, with a tough, industrial-grade surface that holds up well against the elements and frequent use. The cooktop’s material offers excellent wear resistance, maintaining integrity through various cooking temperatures and conditions. The warranty, typically a one-year limited warranty that covers workmanship and materials, provides further testimony to the manufacturer’s confidence in the griddle’s lasting durability. With regular care, such as proper cleaning and seasoning of the cooktop, you can expect reliable performance season after season.
Blackstone 17 Inch: How Easily Is It to Maintain?
Maintaining the Blackstone 17-inch portable griddle involves a straightforward process that ensures lasting performance and durability.
Regular Maintenance Tips
Maintenance refers to the routine measures taken to ensure the proper function and longevity of an apparatus. To maintain your Blackstone griddle, start by wiping the surface with a paper towel after each use to remove leftover food particles. Next, wash the griddle surface with warm, soapy water if needed, using a non-metallic scrubber to avoid scratching. Dry the surface thoroughly, as standing water can lead to rust. Store your griddle in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture damage.
Seasoning and Rust Prevention
Seasoning, in the context of cookware, is the process of applying oil to a cooking surface to create a non-stick patina. Season your Blackstone griddle before the first use and after each cleaning by heating it up and applying a thin layer of cooking oil over the surface. Repeat this process several times, allowing the oil to burn off until the griddle turns a dark, solid color. This acts as rust prevention. In the event of rust formation, scrub the affected area with a grill stone, rinse the surface, dry it, and then re-season to restore the non-stick coating.
Safety Tips and Best Practices for First-Time Use
1. Check for leaks: Before ignition, apply a soapy water solution to the propane connection and look for bubbles which indicate a leak.
2. Position your griddle: Place the griddle on a level, non-combustible surface away from any flammable materials to ensure safety during use.
3. Heat it up: Before cooking, preheat your griddle as detailed in the instructions to confirm that it is ready to cook.
4. Adjust the flame: Use the knob controls to set the flame to your desired level, starting from the lowest setting and increasing gradually.
5. Season the cooktop: Initially heat the griddle to high and apply a thin layer of cooking oil to season the surface, creating a non-stick layer.
By carefully following these detailed steps, your Blackstone Griddle will be set up securely and ready for a multitude of culinary adventures.
Maintenance and Care for Your Griddle
Maintaining your Blackstone griddle involves regular cleaning and long-term care to preserve its functionality and extend its life.
Cleaning Instructions Post-Cooking
Seasoning is the process of creating a non-stick coating on your griddle by baking oil onto the surface. After cooking, while the griddle is still warm, first pour water onto the hot surface to loosen debris. Use a metal scraper to gently remove any food particles. Subsequently, wipe the surface clean with a paper towel. Next, apply a thin layer of cooking oil across the entire surface—this act not only cleans but also seasons your griddle, making future cleanup super easy.
- Pour warm water on the griddle.
- Scrape off food residue with a metal scraper.
- Wipe the surface with a paper towel.
- Oil the surface for seasoning and protection.
Long-Term Maintenance Tips to Ensure Durability
Blackstone griddles come with a warranty, but to ensure the longevity of your griddle, consistent maintenance is key. Ensure the griddle is completely dry before storing to prevent rust. Cover the griddle with a lid or cloth to protect it from environmental elements. Re-season the griddle surface periodically, as this makes it easy to clean and prevents rust. Store the griddle in a cool, dry place to safeguard against weather and corrosion. Regularly check for and tighten any loose screws or knobs to keep the griddle stable.
- Dry the griddle thoroughly after cleaning.
- Cover your griddle when not in use.
- Re-season periodically to enhance non-stick properties.
- Inspect and tighten hardware as necessary.
Accessories and Enhancements
Elevate your cooking experience with the right accessories and modifications for your Blackstone 17-Inch Griddle. Tailor your griddle to fit your outdoor culinary needs, whether you’re in an RV, by the tailgate, or on your next adventure.
Recommended Accessories Specific to the 17-Inch Model
A 17″ Griddle Cover and Carry Bag is essential for protecting your griddle when not in use and for easy transport. For those frequently on the move or who enjoy RV and tailgate cooking, the 17″ Tabletop Griddle is specifically designed to be portable without compromising on cooking surface.
The 17″ Griddle with Hood offers a convenient solution for outdoor enthusiasts. It not only aids in consistent cooking through heat retention but also shields your food from outdoor elements. Blackstone’s Silicone Spatula Mat provides a heat-resistant place to rest your tools without dirtying surfaces.
Customization Options Available for the Griddle
Customize your Blackstone experience with various add-ons. Firstly, a natural gas conversion kit allows you to switch from propane if you have a permanent outdoor setup. See the versatility and convenience with the Natural Gas Conversion Kit.
For avid adventurers, the Blackstone Adventure Ready 17″ Griddle offers a robust option for those who require compact and resilient outdoor cooking gear. The accessory 17″ Griddle with Hood, thanks to its foldable design, is perfect for tailgating events or for RV travelers looking to optimize space.
When enhancing your Blackstone 17-Inch Griddle, first decide on your most common use scenario. Whether it’s at the campground, in the backyard, or while tailgating, the right accessories can make a significant impact on your cooking experience.
