What is an outdoor griddle? Its not as simple as you may think….just kidding, it is! So, lets explore what a outdoor griddle is, what it isn’t and why you might just need one!
Updated: 01/10/2023
What is an outdoor griddle?
An outdoor griddle is a cooking appliance that allows you to cook a variety of foods outdoors. It is typically made of cast iron or stainless steel and is heated by propane or natural gas.
Outdoor griddles are commonly used for cooking breakfast foods such as pancakes, bacon, and eggs, as well as lunch and dinner items like burgers, hot dogs, and steak.
What is so great about an outdoor griddle?
Outdoor griddles are becoming increasingly popular for several reasons. One of the main advantages is that they offer a large cooking surface, which allows you to cook a lot of food at once.
This makes them ideal for outdoor gatherings and events, such as camping trips, tailgating parties, and backyard BBQs. Additionally, outdoor griddles are versatile, allowing you to cook a wide range of foods, from pancakes and eggs to burgers and steaks.
Another advantage of outdoor griddles is that they can be used year-round, making them a great addition to any outdoor kitchen. Unlike traditional outdoor grills that can be difficult to use in the colder months, outdoor griddles can be used to cook all your favorite foods no matter the season.
What to look for when shopping for a griddle
When shopping for an outdoor griddle, there are a few things to consider. The first is the size of the griddle. Outdoor griddles come in a variety of sizes, from small portable models to large commercial-grade models. The size you choose will depend on the size of your outdoor cooking area and the number of people you plan on feeding.
Another important consideration is the type of heating source. Some outdoor griddles are powered by propane, while others are powered by natural gas.
Propane-powered griddles are more portable, but natural gas-powered griddles are more powerful and can be used for a longer period of time.
You should also consider the construction of the griddle. Cast iron griddles are durable and can last for years, but they can be heavy and require regular maintenance. Stainless steel griddles are lightweight and easy to clean, but they may not be as durable as cast iron models.
Whats Healthier? Griddle or Grill?
When it comes to outdoor cooking, both griddles and grills have their own set of pros and cons when it comes to health.
Grilling is a great way to cook meats and vegetables, and it can be a healthier option because the high heat causes fat to drip off the food, which reduces the overall fat content. Additionally, grilling can add a nice char and smoky flavor to food, which many people find appealing.
However, it’s important to be aware that the high heat of grilling can also cause the formation of potentially harmful compounds called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs). These can be formed when meat is cooked at high temperatures, especially when it’s cooked directly over an open flame.
On the other hand, griddles offer a flat cooking surface that allows for food to be cooked with little or no added fat.
This is beneficial as it prevents excess fat from building up in your food, making it a healthier option. In addition, griddles can be used to cook a variety of foods such as pancakes, eggs, sandwiches and many more, allowing you to cook a wider range of dishes with healthier options. Some griddles even have built-in grease management systems that help to remove excess grease and fat.
That being said, it’s not only the cooking method but also the ingredients and the way they are prepared which is important when it comes to a healthy meal.
For example, marinating the meats with a healthy marinade or using lean cuts of meats are ways to reduce the potential risks associated with grilling. Additionally, when using a griddle, it’s best to use a healthy oil such as olive oil or avocado oil for cooking, rather than butter or other saturated fats.
In conclusion, both grilling and griddling can be healthy ways to cook food if done correctly. Grilling can be a healthier option because the high heat causes fat to drip off the food, but it can also cause the formation of harmful compounds if not cooked properly.
Griddling on the other hand, allows for food to be cooked with little or no added fat and can offer a wider range of dishes with healthier options. It is important to take into account the ingredients and preparation methods as well as the cooking method when aiming for a healthy meal.
Griddle Cooking Tips
When cooking with an outdoor griddle, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, make sure the griddle is properly heated before adding food. Most outdoor griddles have a temperature gauge, which can be used to monitor the heat.
Second, be sure to use the right type of cooking oil or spray to prevent sticking. Third, use a spatula or tongs to flip food, as a fork can puncture the surface of the griddle and cause hot oil to splash.
Cast Iron vs Stainless Steel Griddles
Another important thing to keep in mind is to properly maintain your griddle. Cast iron griddles should be seasoned before use and should be cleaned with a wire brush and soap-free detergent and rinsed clean after every use.
Stainless steel griddles should be cleaned with a mild detergent and a non-abrasive sponge. If a stainless steel griddle is not properly cleaned after every use, it can develop rust over time.
In conclusion, outdoor griddles are an excellent addition to any outdoor kitchen. They offer a large cooking surface, are versatile, and can be used year-round. When shopping for an outdoor griddle, consider the size, heating source, and construction, and remember to properly heat, maintain and clean the griddle for long-term and optimal use.
They are perfect for camping trips, tailgating parties, and backyard BBQs with family and friends. And, the best part is, you can cook a variety of foods from breakfast, lunch and dinner items that suit everyone’s taste.