Welcome to the milestone 20th episode of the Okie Smokin’ Podcast! In this exciting episode, John Berry and his co-host Dolores delve into the world of Blackstone griddles, revealing secrets to creating the perfect smash burger and sharing invaluable tips for griddle maintenance and cooking techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned griddle enthusiast or a beginner looking to elevate your outdoor cooking game, this episode is packed with practical advice that will transform your culinary skills.
One of the main highlights of this episode is the art of making smash burgers on the Blackstone griddle. John and Dolores discuss their mutual love for these flavorful, caramelized patties and share essential tips to achieve the perfect crust every time. The key, they emphasize, is starting with a hot griddle. Preheating your griddle to the right temperature is crucial for that signature caramelization and crust that makes smash burgers so irresistible. They also advise against pre-seasoning the meat and instead recommend adding toppings like onions and mushrooms after the initial smash. This technique ensures that the toppings meld perfectly with the burger, enhancing its overall flavor.
Seasoning your Blackstone griddle is another crucial topic covered in this episode. John and Dolores explain that seasoning is not about adding spices but rather about creating a durable, nonstick surface that improves with each use. They provide a step-by-step guide on how to properly season your griddle using oils like canola or avocado oil. The process involves applying a thin layer of oil, heating the griddle until the oil burns off, and repeating this several times to build up a strong, nonstick layer. An alternative method they discuss involves using greasy foods like bacon to naturally season the griddle. This approach not only adds flavor but also contributes to a well-seasoned surface.
Maintaining your Blackstone griddle is essential for its longevity and optimal performance. John and Dolores share valuable cleaning tips, emphasizing the importance of avoiding soap and water. Instead, they recommend using a spatula, scraper, and microfiber cloth to clean the griddle after each use. Adding a layer of oil after cleaning helps protect the surface until the next cook. They also highlight the benefits of using a Bungie cover to shield the griddle from rust, insects, and the elements, especially in rainy conditions.
Another fascinating topic discussed in this episode is the management of heat zones on the griddle. Different foods require different cooking temperatures, and mastering heat zones is key to achieving perfect results. John and Dolores share their experiences with cooking various foods on the Blackstone, from smash burgers to vegetables and bacon. They emphasize the importance of preheating the griddle and being mindful of temperature variations to ensure even cooking.
In addition to these practical tips, John and Dolores introduce an exciting pickle challenge collaboration with Yum Kitchen. This fun and creative endeavor involves creating dishes that feature pickles as the main ingredient. They also share their recent success with a tender, mouth-watering brisket cooked on the Weber Smoky Mountain, highlighting the versatility of outdoor cooking.
The episode is rich with insights and personal anecdotes, making it both informative and entertaining. For instance, Dolores expresses her preference for smash burgers over traditional charcoal-grilled burgers, citing the superior flavor and caramelization achieved on the Blackstone griddle. John shares his experiences with various Facebook groups and the differing opinions on the best way to cook burgers, adding a relatable and humorous touch to the discussion.
In conclusion, this milestone episode of the Okie Smokin’ Podcast is a must-listen for anyone passionate about outdoor cooking. John Berry and Dolores provide a wealth of knowledge on using a Blackstone.
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