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Griddles are basically large cast-iron cooking surfaces. They are great for barbequing, frying, searing, and much more.
Usually, griddles are used when people get together with friends and family. It can be for a summer backyard party, a fourth of July family feast, or just a plain old-fashioned barbeque. But one of the most important parts of all these cooking processes is oil.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of oils that are great for griddle cooking and how to clean and maintain a griddle.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Oil For Griddle Cooking
- OUR TOP PICK: Chosen Foods 100% Pure Avocado Oil Spray
- RUNNER-UP: Happy Belly Canola Oil
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Vegalene Premium 3 Oil Blend Cooking Spray
Comparison of the Best Oils For Griddle Cooking
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What Makes Oil Great For Griddle Cooking?
There are no guidelines that cooking oils have to follow for them to be great. That’s why there are so many out there, and each caters to the taste and preference of different people. It is said though that oils with high fatty acid content are better for griddle cooking.
So based on that, we have some factors that you may want to keep in mind when you use oil for griddle cooking.
Type of Oil
The type of oil you use to grease your pan or cook depends on different factors. Do you like the flavor of that specific oil? Do you use it for its health benefits? Does it go with a diet you are following? Does it coat the surface of your cookware?
Depending on the purpose, you could use sunflower, mustard, avocado, coconut oil, etc. There are a lot of options.
Type of Cooking
The type of cooking you are doing also depends on what you should use. Are you searing, stir-frying, barbecuing, or toasting? Each type of oil has different properties and gives something slightly different for each method.
Flavor
Now comes the point of your taste buds. There are a lot of options to choose from in the category of oils, but it all depends on your preferences. You may like a strong or subtle flavor, or you may want something relatively tasteless or something that adds a subtle sweetness. The flavor of oil you like to cook with is all dependent on your own personal taste.
Smoke Point
The smoke point is the temperature at which the oil begins to burn. This is bad because it not just burns your food, but the nutrients in the oil are also burnt, not to mention the production of harmful free radicals. The smoke point varies from one type of oil to another, as some may burn faster than others. So, know what you are looking for when you want to cook something.
Types of Oils For Griddle Cooking
There are a lot of options to choose from when it comes to griddle cooking. You want to choose the one that is perfect for your needs and also suits your taste.
So below, we have some details about the different types of oils used for griddle cooking.
Canola Oil
Canola oil is great if you usually cook at high temperatures, as it has a smoke point of 470° Fahrenheit. It consists of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for the heart. It is also very cheap, so it won’t cost you much.
Avocado Oil
This is considered one of the best oils for griddle cooking because of its ability to take high heat. It has a high smoke point of nearly 520° Fahrenheit and is perfect for searing, barbecuing, and sautéing your food without the danger of ruining it.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil is the most commonly used cooking oil and is a real star among the masses. That’s because it is literally just the juice of crushed olives.
It is completely unrefined and free of all kinds of chemicals. High-quality extra virgin olive oil has a smoke point of 425° Fahrenheit, and it is great for people who have heart problems or are just health-conscious.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is well-known for its rich taste and flavor. It is full of antioxidants and also has components that fight inflammation. It has a smoke point of 400° Fahrenheit, and it is great if you prefer a slightly sweet and unique flavor for your food.
Willy's Top Picks - Best Oils For Griddle Cooking
Here are the best oils for griddle cooking:
Review of the Best Oils For Griddle Cooking
Now that we have given details about what aspects make an oil good for cooking and the different types used by people, let’s get into our top picks that are great for griddle cooking.
Best Overall:
Chosen Foods 100% Pure Avocado Oil Spray
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A large number of buyers praised the quality and value that this oil brings. They believe that it’s a great oil that is naturally prepared with no side effects. The ingredients used are very beneficial for health, and it offers great value for your money. The packaging is also convenient, which allows you to spray easily and comfortably.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What strikes us about this product is the health benefits that it delivers. It uses liquid mono-saturated fats, which is a clear indicator of a heart-healthy product. The oil is refined using natural processes, and it doesn’t contain any propellants, emulsifiers, or other chemicals. It offers not only health benefits but also great value for your money.
The six-ounce bonus size contains 25% more oil for longer use, while the purified avocados offer a unique taste. The amazing fact about this oil is that it comes in convenient packaging that offers a sprayable nature so you can spray it reliably to ensure comfortable and easy use.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a great quality oil to have that delivers a variety of health benefits. The taste is quite unique, and it brings great value for your money. The packaging also provides a user-friendly nature with spray-able properties. Thus, it’s a great oil to have for an amazing taste.
Runner-up:
Happy Belly Canola Oil
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A high percentage of positive reviews suggest the great quality that the product offers. Buyers seem to be completely satisfied with their purchase. They believe that the oil is a great addition to your kitchen if you are seeking a healthier cooking solution. Its light and unique taste not only appeals to the users but also brings a wonderful taste to your food.
Why it Stands Out to Us
You can find a number of different oils on the market that feature health benefits. The interesting fact about this product is that it brings both health benefits and a great taste. Most cooking oils have unhealthy fats and cholesterol that can lead to various health issues. However, with this one at hand, you can enjoy your food with a light taste and a cholesterol-free experience.
The 48 fluid ounces of canola oil lasts way longer and offers a reliable cooking and frying option. The light taste just adds to the flavor of your food without any side effects. Moreover, it comes with a satisfaction guarantee that allows you a refund option in case you are not satisfied.
Bottom Line
In short, if you are looking to bring some healthy changes in your food, this is a perfect start. With cholesterol-free properties and unique taste, this oil promises a finger-licking tinge to your table. It also comes with a refund policy, unlike most brands.
Best for the Money:
Vegalene Premium 3-Oil Blend Cooking Spray
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the feedback from users of this oil was positive. Users were very pleased with the overall quality the product has to offer. Users say that it is one of the finest oils that they have used so far. The non-stick properties it brings are a huge plus, unlike other oils. Users highly recommend buying it for a reliable cooking experience.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Most of the buyers see this product as one that offers great value for money. However, we think a bit differently. What appeals to us more is the all-round capabilities the oil has in store. It features a three-oil formula that packs the goodness of canola, sunflower, and soybean oil. This combination has been a great success when it comes to non-stick properties.
Now, with this oil, you can cook food without worrying about the food sticking. The 30% more active release agents keep your food stick-free while promising quick preparation. Also, the oil helps increase your cooking pans' lifespan and is suitable for most cooking surfaces.
Bottom Line
All in all, this is a great cooking oil to have with the combined goodness of three different oils. If sticking food has been a problem for you in the past, this is the ultimate solution. With non-stick properties and unique blend, it offers a desirable flavor.
4. Betterbody Foods 100% Pure Avocado Oil
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A majority of the reviews for this product were positive thanks to its outstanding quality and mild taste that makes it suitable for multiple purposes. Recent buyers are highly convinced that this is the best cooking oil available on the market. It offers multiple health benefits while enhancing the flavor of most foods.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There are a number of things that we like about the product. If you are into cooking foods that require higher temperatures, then this is your best bet. It features high heat cooking properties that can cook to as high as 500F. Moreover, the mono-saturated fats present in it offer various health benefits without compromising your health.
The oil also offers a mild and smooth flavor, which is acceptable for multiple uses and users. It can be used as a skincare or hair care oil as well. The best part is that it is free from any preservatives and is Gluten-free.
Bottom Line
In a nutshell, it’s a great oil to have if you seek a healthier lifestyle. It not only improves your health but also adds a unique flavor to your food. It is ideal for cooking food at high temperatures and offers additional versatility with its multiple usage capabilities.
5. Spectrum Naturals Oil Canola
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a quality cooking solution. Most of the users believe that lt is just perfect for cooking all sorts of food. It excels when it comes to high heat cooking. Users also described its taste as perfect since it is neutral and can be used by most people.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Well, the product comes packed with a multitude of healthy properties that make it quite unique and desirable. Unlike conventional oils, this one features a number of health benefits and ideal taste. In addition, the Omega 3s take care of your health without affecting it. The neutral taste is quite pleasant and can be used for cooking any food.
Since it is known for high heat cooking, you can use it when cooking at higher temperatures. Now, you don’t have to worry about burnt oil as it has great heat tolerance. Also, it comes in a premium-quality glass bottle, which further adds to its quality.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for reliable cooking oil, then look no further. This cooking oil is enough to cater to all your cooking needs without affecting your health. It is enriched with Omega 3 and various other ingredients that make it a healthy choice for everyone.
Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind
There are still some things to keep in mind when it comes to cooking oils. Here are some of them.
Flaking
Some oils are not suited for a certain surface. If used wrong, vigorously, or without consideration, the cookware you wanted to restore or maintain will end up becoming entirely useless because the surface coating will start peeling off. It is dangerous to cook in such cookware as they give off free radicals and harmful substances that contaminate your food.
Refined vs. Unrefined
There are a lot of oils on the market, which include their refined and unrefined variants. Using unrefined oils is healthier compared to refined oils, as they are all-natural and do not have any chemicals in them.
For instance, canola oil is made from genetically-altered canola seeds, which is not beneficial for someone looking for something that is natural and GMO-free. But that doesn’t mean that refined oils are bad. They just consist of lesser nutrients. So look for what you really want in terms of your taste, health, and affordability.
Comparison Overview
Now that we have discussed our products and have provided a few things to look out for when using griddle oil, below, we have a few comparisons to get an idea of which oil is preferable.
Peanut Oil vs. Olive Oil For Griddle Cooking
There are a lot of cooking oils available nowadays. All of them have some similarities and differences. Two of the most common kinds of griddle cooking are olive oil and peanut oil. The question is, how do the two compare against each other? Let’s have a look!
Similarities
- Both are high in monounsaturated fatty acids.
- The two are good at lowering cholesterol and unhealthy fats in the body.
- You can use both of them for cooking such as frying, searing, etc.
Differences
- Olive oil is plant-based, while peanut oil is nut-based.
- They come from different sources, as olive oil is fruit-based, while peanut oil is seed-based.
- Peanut oil is mostly tasteless, while Olive oil is quite flavorsome.
- They have different smoke points. Peanut oil is 450° Fahrenheit and olive oil is 425° Fahrenheit.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil vs. Canola Oil For Seasoning a Griddle
Now, griddle seasoning means oil that is used to coat the surface of the griddle to keep the food from sticking to it. It also protects the griddle from damage. But should you go for canola oil or extra virgin olive oil? How can you choose between the two? Well, here are some similarities and differences that can help:
Similarities
- They are good options for seasoning a griddle.
- Both are composed of healthy fatty acids.
- Each of them can be found in refined and unrefined forms.
Differences
- Canola oil is mostly manufactured from genetically-altered canola seeds, while extra virgin olive oil is the literal juice of olives. It is the purest form of oil.
- Extra virgin olive oil is fruit-based, while canola oil is seed-based.
- It is cheaper to buy canola oil in comparison to extra virgin olive oil.
How to Clean Oil Off a Griddle
It is easy to clean a griddle. But there are several ways to do it. There is the normal surface cleaning, and then there is the deep cleaning.
Regular Cleaning
The steps for the normal surface cleaning are:
- When you are finished using your griddle, turn off the heat.
- After it’s been a few minutes and your griddle is still warm, start scraping the surface.
- Direct all of your scraped oil and bits to the grease cup.
- Now spray it with a little bit of water, and scrape it again.
- When you scrape, keep your scraper at a 45° angle and apply just the right amount of pressure so that it slides easily across the surface.
- Direct it all again towards the grease cup.
- Now take a towel or a napkin and just wipe the surface down.
- Then apply your seasoning oil and wipe it down once more.
- You are done with your normal surface cleaning.
Deep Cleaning
This is the point where the surface cleaning stops. Now let’s get into the steps of deep cleaning.
- After a few weeks, you may start to see some streaks and buildup of the seasoning on the surface.
- Turn on the griddle until it becomes warm. This will make it easier to clean.
- Spray the surface of your griddle with water.
- Take a cold brush and just start scrubbing.
- You will start to see particles and oil mixing with the water as you scrub.
- Get into the corners as well. Do not scrub with excessive force as you do not want to damage the surface.
- Now spray it with a little more water.
- Take a towel or cotton cloth, and wipe down the surface of the griddle.
- Let it air dry for five to six minutes.
- Now, take your preferred oil and just apply some of it on the surface.
- Take a piece of cloth and wipe it down thoroughly.
- And you have a fully cleaned griddle.
Hopefully, these steps will be easy for you to follow. If you are still not sure about something, here’s a video that can serve as a visual guide.
Conclusion
So there you have it, some of our top picks of oils that are great for griddle cooking. These have been compiled after meticulous research and going through customer reviews. Hopefully, we have provided every bit of information necessary for our readers.
People Also Ask
Now even though we have tried our best to give every detail about the products, there may still be some things that our readers want to clear up. So below, we have answered a few questions that may help.
Can You Use Cooking Spray on a Griddle?
Yes, you can use cooking spray on a griddle if you do not like too much grease.
Can You Spray Pam on a Griddle?
You can coat your griddles with Pam Cooking Spray. This keeps your food from sticking to its surface. It works with skillets as well.
Should You Oil a Griddle?
It is good if you oil your griddle. This is because you create a natural, non-stick surface that is easy to clean after you are done with the cooking.
How Do You Season a Griddle With Oil?
It is very easy. Just sprinkle the surface with oil. Take a lint-free piece of cloth and wipe down the entire surface and the tough spots. If possible, get the sides and outside of the surface as well. Then turn the griddle on, and once the surface begins to darken, spread a thin layer of oil on it with a clean cloth.
Other Griddle-Related Reviews
Check out some of our other griddle articles:
