Griddles

What is a griddle?

In simple terms, a griddle is a unique cooking appliance that has a flat surface. It is usually placed on top of a heat source when cooking. Griddles are rectangular and they have a very large surface area which means that you can use them to prepare meals for a large group.  You can also use them with a couple of burners and are suitable for searing and frying meats or vegetables. Unlike skillets, griddles have very low walls which means that you cannot use them to prepare foods with liquids. Some of them contain ridges that leave nice char marks on the meat or vegetables. 

What are the benefits of using a griddle?

• User-friendly- One of the major reasons why most people prefer griddles is because they are very easy to use. This means that you do not need to have any experience cooking with a griddle.
• Large surface area- When cooking for a large group, a griddle will be a suitable option because they have a large surface area. Due to this, you can cook a lot of food at once. They are also among the best for outdoor cooking.
• Versatility- Another benefit of these units is that they are highly versatile and this means that you can use them to cook a variety of foods.
• Nonstick surface- The surface of these units is nonstick and this protects your food from burning when using them.
• Taste- If you love the smoke flavor of grilled foods, griddles are the best. This means that they provide foods with a better taste than skillets. 

Disadvantages of griddles

• Bulky- As compared to skillets, griddles are very bulky which means that they are not easy to carry. They also require more space than skillets.
• Since they do not have edges or a lid, they are not suitable for preparing foods that need moisture or foods that contain liquids. 

When should you use a griddle?

You can use a griddle to grill steaks, vegetables, chicken, and pork chops.  It is also suitable for preparing breakfast items such as eggs, pancakes among others. You can also use them for grilling, stir-frying, flash frying, toast sandwiches among others which means that they are highly versatile.

Which are the best griddles on the market? 

Below are the top 3 griddles that will give you excellent value for your money.

Blackstone  1666 22” Tabletop Griddle – Best for Outdoor Cooking

The Blackstone 1666 Tabletop Griddle has 330 square inches which means that it is very spacious. Due to this, it is among the best options you should consider for outdoor cooking. The unit is very powerful as compared to most griddles on the market since it provides a high heat output of 24,000 BTUs. Besides that, it comes with a heat resistant handle for easier and safe use.  You can use it to prepare different types of foods including eggs, burgers, steaks, hot dogs, pancakes, bacon, sautéing, stir-frying among others. The unit also features a “H” style burner which helps to distribute heat evenly across the unit. Another benefit of using it is that it is very easy to clean. 

Legend Cast Iron Griddle 2-in-1 Reversible 20” –  Best for Gas Stovetops

Legend Cast Iron Griddle is made of cast iron to enhance performance and durability. In terms of heat distribution and retention, this unit is excellent. Due to this, it is highly versatile which means that it is perfect for cooking different types of food. In addition, it comes with a scratch-resistant finish which enables it to maintain its stylish appearance even after using it for many years. It is also equipped with easy-grip handles for easier carrying. If you are on a budget, this griddle may be a great choice because it is very cheap. It also comes pre-seasoned with vegetable oil and the good with this seasoning is that it becomes better and better as you continue using the griddle. 

Electric Griddle DEIK 2-in-1 Indoor Grill Smokeless– Best  Electric Griddle

If you are searching for a portable and a large electric griddle, the DEIK 2-in-1, Griddle is among the best models that will give you the best value for your money. This unit has a 2-in-1 electric griddle which means that it is suitable for grilling and gridding. It has a compact design that makes it easy to carry and clean. This also means that it is easy to store since it does not require a lot of paces. You can even keep it in a cabinet.  The unit features a nonstick coating for easier cleaning. In addition, it comes with a 5-level adjustable thermostat which allows you to set your preferred temperatures according to the type of food you are cooking.  There is also a 5-inch tilt drain feature and a removable drip tray for collecting excess oils and fats. 

Skillets

 Just like frying pans, skillets have a round shape but they are about 5cm deeper than frying pans. They are also characterized by slanting sides and are available in different sizes. Most skillets are made of cast iron but they are also made of other materials such as aluminum, carbon steel, stainless steel and copper.  Just like griddles, skillets are highly versatile which means that you can use them for baking, pan-frying, sautéing, searing, braising, roasting and broiling. 

What is the difference between skillets and griddles?

Making a choice on whether to use a skillet or griddle can be a bit hard if you don’t understand the differences between the two. Below are some of their notable differences. 

1. Design- The major difference between these two appliances is the design. Griddles have a flat and a larger surface area than skillets which enables them to accommodate more food. Due to their design, they are less portable than skillets. You will also find that most stoves have a small size which means that they cannot work with griddles.
2. Food taste- When it comes to the food taste, griddles provides properly roasted foods. They also add a smoke flavor to your food which makes them ideal for roasting and searing meat. When preparing traditional barbecues or foods for a large gathering outdoors, a griddle will be the best appliance to use because it can accommodate more food than a skillet. On the other hand, skillets have a small size but they are able to reach high temperatures. Due to this, they are the best for indoor cooking. 
3. Price- In terms of price, griddles are more expensive than skillets due to their large surface area. However, they are worth the amount especially if you need to use them frequently. 

Electric Skillet Vs Griddle

As compared to the standard skillets, electric skillets are more advanced. They come with unique features and they are also different from the ordinary skillets even in terms of design. Due to their excellent performance, they are among the modern kitchen appliances you should never miss in your kitchen. They are highly versatile and they will give you foods with a great taste. 

Unlike when you are using a griddle, electric skillets allow you to use liquid components when cooking and they are also suitable for preparing large meals.  Again, they come with a lid which gives you more control when cooking unlike when you are using a griddle. In terms of maintenance, electric skillets come with a nonstick surface which makes them easy to clean. Unlike other electric skillets on the market, Presto 06857 16 Inch Electric Foldaway Skillet and BELLA Electric Ceramic Titanium Skillet provide the best performance.  

Cast iron skillet vs griddle

In terms of performance, both cast iron skillets and griddles are very reliable when cooking. The good thing about cast iron is that it is excellent when it comes to heat distribution and distribution. Just like griddles, cast iron skillets are suitable for preparing foods that require high heat.  As a result, you can use both for searing and roasting but griddles provide foods with a better taste and smoke flavors. 

However, griddles may not be the best for indoor cooking due to their large surface. If you would prefer to use a cast-iron skillet, you need to ensure that you have picked the best because they do not provide a similar performance even if they are made of the same material. In case you are not sure which one to use, the Lodge Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Skillet with Assist Handle Holder 12 Inch will be an excellent choice.

Camping skillets vs griddle

When camping, you may need a small or a large skillet depending on the number of people present. Griddles such as the Blackstone 1666  22” Tabletop Griddle Outdoor Grill are the most preferred for camping due to their large size but if you will only be preparing food for a small group, a skillet will be the best option. Skillets are also available in different sizes which allows you to choose what suits your camping needs. For those who prefer to use camping skillets instead of a griddle, Pre-seasoned Cast Iron 16” Large Skillet with Dual Handles is among the best skillets for outdoor cooking. 

Skillet vs griddle for pancakes

Choosing between griddle vs skillet pancakes is not easy because the two appliances provide an impressive performance when preparing pancakes. These two cooking appliances provide excellent heat retention and distribution which makes them ideal for pancakes and other breakfast items. However, electric griddles are the best especially models such as Dash DEG200GBAQ01 Everyday Nonstick Griddle for Pancakes that allows you to adjust the temperatures. 

To get the best results, you should ensure that the temperatures are set at 375 F when preheating. After this, reduce the temperatures to 360 F or 370 F once you state cooking.  On the other hand, some skillets will give you better performance when preparing pancakes than others. If you are searching for a perfect skillet for pancakes and eggs, Carote 8 Inch Non-Stick Skillet Frying Pan Egg Skillet Omelet Pan will give you the best value for your money.

Griddle vs skillet – Which one should you choose?

Determining whether to use a skillet or a griddle is not easy because it depends on the type of food you are preparing and the available space. Griddles have a larger surface area and are more bulky than skillets. Due to this, they are the best for outdoor cooking. However, there are smaller models that are compatible with stovetops and these are more convenient than the larger ones especially if you have a small family. On the other hand, skillets are the most common due to their lightweight design. They are also versatile and easy to use.

Unlike grills, griddles have a flat surface which makes them better for preparing meals such as burgers and breakfast foods than grills. If you are searching for a perfect cooking appliance you can use during different outdoor activities, a griddle will be the most suitable option due to their compact design.  In this article, we shall reveal the best gas griddles you should consider for outdoor cooking. 

Top 6 Gas Griddles- Reviews

Blackstone Table Top Grill – 17 Inch Portable Gas Griddle – Best Propane Griddle

Blackstone is one of the leading brands when it comes to production of durable cooking appliances such as griddles. If you are searching for a portable and long lasting propane griddle, Blackstone Table Top Grill will be a great choice. Its compact size makes it easy to carry during various outdoor activities such as parties, picnics, backyard, camping, hunting, tailgating, road trips among others. It comes with an electric igniter which is very easy to use. The unit also comes with an inbuilt grease catcher and 1-pound propane bottle. 

The other thing you will love about it is that it is very easy to clean since you only need to wipe it with a paper towel.  The unit also features a heavy-duty cooking surface to enhance durability. This surface area has a measurement of 260 square inches which allows you to prepare different meals at once. Again, the grill is equipped with a stainless steel burner that heats fast. This burner has a “H” Shape that provides equal distribution and as a result, it provides an incredible cooking performance. It also provides a high heat output of 12,000 BTU.

Specifications

• Measurements: 17.5 x18 x8.5 inches
• Material   : Cast iron
• Color   : Stainless steel and black
• Weight   : 21 pounds

What we like

• Easy to clean
• Affordable price
• Allows you to cook different meals at once
• Even heat distribution for optimum cooking
• Easy to store
• Easy to use igniter

What we dislike

• Cheap construction

FAQ

1. How thick is the grill?

The cooking surface has a thickness of 1/8 inches

2. Is the cooking surface removable?

Yes, you can easily remove it for easier cleaning.

3. What is the griddle surface?

The top surface of this griddle is cold rolled steel

Verdict

If you are searching for a small griddle you can use for various outdoor activities, Blackstone Table Top Grill will be a suitable option due to its compact design. It is easy to use, affordable and it is also a great choice for anyone in need of the best propane griddle.

Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle Outdoor Grill, 22 Inch – Best Outdoor Gas Griddle

Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle Outdoor Grill, 22 Inch is another top quality gas griddle that will give you the best value for your money. It has a large surface area of 330 square inches which saves your time when preparing different meals. The unit also provides a high heat output of 24,000 BTUs which enables it to cook fast. It is very compact and it is a suitable option for preparing hot dogs, eggs, bacon, burgers, steaks, pancakes among other foods. The “H” shaped burner helps to distribute the heat equally across the unit for optimum cooking. 

Gas griddles are likely to become messy but with this unit, you don’t have to worry about that because it is easy to clean. You can just wipe it with a wet cloth and that is it. Another thing you will love about this griddle is that it is very easy to set up because you only need to screw on the feet and then place the steel plate on top. You can prepare a lot of meals with this griddle including chicken, burgers, vegetables, bacon, steaks, stir-fry, eggs, among others. However, it requires seasoning before you start cooking. 

Specifications

• 330 Square inches
• 22 inch griddle
• 24,000 BTUs heat output
• 2 burners 

What we like

• Very versatile
• Fits perfectly ion a travel bag
• Large surface area
• Heat resistant handle
• High heat output
• Easy to clean

What we dislike

• Not the best in windy conditions

FAQ

1. Can you use it in your kitchen?

This grill can be used anywhere but it is more suitable for outdoor cooking?

2. What is the size of this griddle?

It has a measurement of 22 inches

3. How hot does it get?

The griddle becomes too hot when cooking but it comes with a heat resistant handle to protect you from burns.

Verdict

Blackstone 1666 22” Tabletop Griddle Outdoor Grill is among the best griddles for outdoor cooking due to its small size. It has a large cooking surface and it allows you to prepare different types of dishes at once.

Royal Gourmet PD1300 Portable 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill Griddle – Best Gas Griddle Grill

Royal Gourmet PD1300 is another top quality gas griddle that will give you an impressive performance when cooking different meals.  It has a large cooking area of 316.20 square inches. This means that it has enough space for preparing different meals at once.  Again, it is equipped with a porcelain enamel flat top griddle which retains heat evenly. This ensures that the juices in your food are protected.

Another unique thing you need to note about the unit is that it is equipped with 3 ring shaped burners and each has 9,000 BTU. This means that the total unit provides a high heat output of 27,000 BTUs. It also comes with a grease drip cup on the side that  helps to collect grease residue when cooking. The stainless steel control panel enhances the quality as well as durability.  In terms of design, this griddle is very compact which makes it a suitable choice for camping, picnics, tailgating or any other outdoor event. A regulator for 20 lb tank is also included in the package

Specifications

• Material   : Stainless steel
• Dimension    : 23.6 x 13.4 inches
• Heat output  : 27,000BTU
• Detachable porcelain enamel flat top
• 3 ring shaped burners

What we like

• Easy to use ignition system
• Portable design
• Ideal for cooking different foods at once
• Even and fast heat distribution
• Easy to clean
• Grease drip cup for easier cleaning

What we dislike

• Small grease tray

FAQ

1. What kind of propane tank should I use with this griddle?

It uses a 20 pounds propane tank

2. Does it come with a cover?

Yes, it comes with a cover which keeps it safe when it is not in use

3. How thick is the surface?

The surface of this griddle is about 3.5 mm thick.

4. Does it have a Teflon non-stick surface?

Yes

Verdict

This griddle is a suitable for anyone who need a portable 3 burner gas griddle. It has a large cooking surface area which allows you to cook different foods at once. The unit is easy to assemble and the piezo ignition system is also easy to use.

Sizzle-Q SQ180 100% Stainless steel Universal Griddle – Best Gas Range with Griddle

The Sizzle-Q SQ180 100% Stainless Steel is a top quality choice for gas and charcoal griddles. It features a patented construction with adequate ventilation to enhance airflow as well as even heat distribution. There is also an underside cross bracing that enhance rigidity and strength. In terms of construction, this grill-top griddle is made of a 14-gauge stainless steel. It also comes with an inbuilt grease well for collecting excess oils. As a result, the unit is very easy to clean and helps to prevent flare-ups.  The stainless steel material ensures that nothing sticks on it which means that it is easy to clean. It is designed in a way that makes it compatible with almost all gas grills. Also note that it has a rating of 600°F. Another impressive thing about it is that it comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Specifications

Material          : Stainless steel

Dimensions   : 18 x13 inches

Weight : 9.0 lbs

Cross bracing to enhance support

What we like

• Limited lifetime warranty
• Long lasting construction
• Easy to clean
• Ample griddle space
• Vented cross-brace system to enhance strength 
• Fun and easy to use

What we dislike

• It warps after sometime 
• Takes time to heat

FAQ

1. Does it heat quickly?

This griddle top heats up quickly due to the stainless steel material.

2. Can I use it on an electric grill?

It is not suitable for electric grills

3. Can I use it on a gas stove in the kitchen?

Yes

Verdict

The Sizzle-Q SQ180 is one of the best grill tops for outdoor griddles. It has a sturdy construction to enhance durability. Again, it fits perfectly on all grills.

GE JGP5030SLSS 30 Inch Gas Cooktop- Best Gas Cooktop with Griddle

The GEJGP5030SLSS 30 Inch is a top rated cooktop which provides a wide cooking surface. This cooktop is made of cast iron to enhance durability. The stainless steel finish protects it from rusting and scratching. It is equipped with 5 burners which delivers a fast cooking experience. Again, it has 15,000 BTU power boil burner for fast boiling.  The continuous grates allow you to shift your pots and pans between the burners more easily. There is also an integrated griddle which allows you to prepare different dishes such as pancakes, eggs, grilled cheese among others without any need for an extra cookware. It is very easy to install and control knobs are easy to use.  A separate burner for boiling and simmering is also included. The unit also features heavy-duty grates which are dishwasher safe. This saves your time when cleaning. 

Specifications

• Material:   Cast iron
• ADA compliant burner
• Dimensions 33.5 x27.3 x11 inches
• 15,000 BTUs
• Simmer burner
• 5 burners

What we like

• Stainless steel finish

• Accessible control knobs
• Provides enough space for more cookware
• Dishwasher safe grates
• Optional integrated griddle

• Easy to install
• Separate burners for simmering and boiling
• Heavy to lift

What we dislike

• A bit heavy
• The knobs melt easily since they are made of plastic

FAQ

1. Does it come with a regulator?

Yes

2. How many BTUs does it provide?

The unit provides up to 15,000 BTU power boil burner.

3. Does it come with the griddle?

No

Verdict

If you are searching for a top quality cooktop, this unit will be a good choice. It is easy to install and the burners come with different sizes. This means that you can use pans and pots with different sizes.

NutriChef Cast Iron Reversible Grill Plate- 18 Inch Flat Cast Iron Skillet Griddle Pan – Best Gas Stove Griddle

If you are searching for a reliable cast iron skillet griddle pan, you can never go wrong with NutriChef Cast Iron Reversible Grill Plate. It is made from cast iron material to enhance durability. This material also helps to distribute heat evenly and quickly across the surface. The surface is nonstick for easier food release.  Another thing you need to note about it is that it is able to withstand extreme heat up to 480°F.  It has a measurement of 18 x10 x0.6 inches which means that it is wide enough for large meals.

Heat resistant silicone oven grab mints are also included to enhance your safety. In addition, it comes with convenient reversible sides which comprises of a smooth side and a ribbed side. The ribbed side allows you to prepare grilled foods such as chicken, fish, steak and hamburger. On the other hand, the smooth side is perfect for preparing grilled cheese sandwich, pancakes and eggs. It also features a ridged line surface which captures excess oils to give you healthy meals.

Specifications

• Dimensions : 18 x 10 x 0.6 inches
• Material     : Cast iron 
• Weight 9.78 lbs
• Reversible sides

What we like

• Heavy-duty construction
• Dishwasher safe

• Large enough for large meals
• Effective heat distribution
• Stain resistant

What we dislike

• Heavy

FAQ

1. Does it work with all gas stove tops?

Yes

2. Is it lead and Teflon free?

Yes, it is very safe for cooking.

3. Is it made in the USA?

No, it is made in China

Verdict

This grill plate is one of the best options for an outdoor BBQ grill. It has a heavy-duty cast iron construction to enhance durability. It is dishwasher safe and it is also resistant to stains.

Key Things to Check When Buy the Best Gas Griddle

Gas griddles are come with different features which means that you need to understand these features before you buy. Below are some of the things you should check.

Size

Griddles have different surface area which means that some are only suitable for preparing  meals for a small group while others can be used to cook for a large group. Therefore, you need to ensure that the one you have picked have enough capacity that suits your family or for a large group.

Easy to use

Some griddles may be a bit difficult to use than others. This means that before buying, you need to ensure that the unit has user-friendly features. The ignition system should also be easy to use. Models with piezo ignition system or those with dials for controlling temperatures are the easiest to use.

Portability

Gas griddles are among the best cooking appliances for outdoor events due to their small size. Therefore, you need to choose a model that fit easily in a travel bag.  Check the dimensions to ensure that it is not too bulky. It should also be easy to store after use. The best models are those with handles for easier carrying.

Cooking plate  

When choosing a griddle, you should consider those with a thick metal plate. You also need to ensure that the coking plate is able to distribute heat quickly and evenly across the surface. Stainless steel cooking plates are the best because they are rustproof unlike cast iron or steel.

Cleaning

You do not need a griddle that will require a lot of time to clean. This means that you need to check the surface to ensure that it is easy to clean. Again, you should consider those units that come with a grease cup or a grease pan. Griddles that are made of stainless steel are very easy to clean since you can just wipe them with this after use.

Number of burners

The griddle burners acts as the heat source which means that they are very important. Griddles have between 1-4 burners as we have explained below;

1. Single burner griddles– These ones are the most compact and the best for outdoor events such as camping, tailgating, parties etc. They are also suitable for preparing small quantities of food for about 2-3 people. Relocating them is also easy when you want to use them in a better place especially when the wind starts blowing or when it starts raining.
2. Two burner griddles– Two burner models are the most common types of portable griddles. Their weights vary from 20 to 30 pounds and are suitable for preparing meals for more than 4 people. The weight depends on the size of the plate.
3. Three burner griddles– Triple burner griddles are not very common and they require a large propane tank than those with a single or two burners. They are also not very easy to transport because they are a bit bulky. If you want to get the best results when using these griddles, you need to control the middle heat zone. You can do this by adjusting the three heat zones in low, medium and high heat.
4. 4 burner griddles– These griddles are also known as the quad outdoor griddles. As compared to others, these ones are the largest and are suitable for a large group. They have 4 burners which are controlled separately to enhance the versatility of these units. You also need a top quality propane tank if you want to use the 4 burners at the same time.

Why Should You Buy an Outdoor Gas Griddle?

1. Health- One of the major benefits of gas griddles is that they provide very healthy foods because they have a grease cups which helps to collect excess oils from the food.
2. Multipurpose- When preparing foods for a large group, you can use a griddle to prepare different dishes at once due to the large cooking surface. You can also fry eggs and sear steaks at the same time.
3. Versatility- With a gas griddle, you can prepare almost all types of food since they have a large cooking area.
4. Eco-friendly- Another benefit of gas griddles is that they are very friendly to the environment since they do not emit smoke like stoves.
5. Retains food flavor- Unlike grills, griddles do not have gaps beneath. This help to retain the moisture in your food which makes them suitable for preparing different meals such as meats and burger.
6. Portable design- The other thing you will love about these units is that their compact design which makes them easy to carry. Due to this design, they are perfect for different outdoor events such as parties, camping, hunting, road tips among others.
7. Easy to clean- Cleaning a griddle is very easy since you just need to wipe it with a wet cloth. They also come with a grease cup which collects excess grease top make your work easier when cleaning.
8. Flat surface- Griddles have a flat surface which makes them suitable for preparing different foods such as fish steaks and vegetables. They are also suitable for delicate foods.
9. Prevents flare ups- When using a griddle, grease and food does not get into direct contact with the flames which prevents flare ups.

Types of Gas Griddles

There are three major types of gas griddles which are;

Portable griddles

These ones have a compact size which makes them easy to carry to different places. As result, they are the best for outdoor cooking. They are also suitable for those who have a small family or those who do not use a griddle frequently. Most of them use disposable propane tanks.

Dedicated griddles

Dedicated griddles are very big and they normally have wheels for easier transport. They also have a large cooking surface which makes them suitable for those who need a big unit that can cook a lot of food at once. As compared to other types, dedicated griddles are very expensive but they are the best if you have a large family.

Griddle plates

These are plates that are placed on top of an existing grill when cooking. The good thing about them is that they heat quickly since they use a grill as their source of heat. You can also use them to cook eggs, pancakes and other foods which you cannot prepare using a grill. In terms of design, they are the smallest and most portable griddles.

Important Things to Consider When Using a Gas Griddle

Knowing how to take care of your griddle is very important if you want it to serve you for many years. Below are some of the things you should consider when using a griddle.

Seasoning

If you want to get the best results when cooking different meals using a griddle, you need to season it frequently. You should do this by spreading oil on the surface but you should avoid using too much oil. Seasoning protects the top of the unit from rusting.

Utensils

You also need to ensure that you are using the right utensils or cleaning tools. A spatula is one of the most important tools you should have when using a griddle. If possible, look for one that allows oil to pass through like those with a hole at the center. You will also need a scraper to remove sticky food from the surface. Therefore, it is important to have a griddle accessory tool kit such as Vomelon Griddle Accessories Kit for Flat Top Grill since it is equipped with all the tools you may require.

Choppers

These tools allows you to cut things easily when preparing different meals. You should also look for metal tongs especially when preparing steaks and sausages.

Safety gloves

Griddles become too hot which means that you need to protect your hands from accidental burns. Therefore, heat resistant gloves will make your work easier when cooking. 

Grease cup

Always remember to empty the grease cup immediately after cooking. You should also turn off the propane tank to prevent accidents.

Griddles vs Grills- Which One Should You Choose?

Griddles and grills are normally used for the same purpose. However, they have some differences as we have explained below.

1. Design- The major difference between a grill and a griddle is the design.  Griddles feature a flat and smooth surface unlike grills which have raised ridges. These ridges allow oils and juices to fall between the gaps. Due to the flat surface, you can use a griddle to prepare almost all types of food including juicy burgers, pancakes and eggs which is something you cannot do when using a grill. On the other hand, griddles come with grease cups which collects excess oils from the food.
2. Convenience- If you are searching for a convenient cooking appliance you can easily use in different places, a griddle will be the most suitable option. As compared to grills, griddles have a small size which makes them easy to carry. Due to their compact size, they fit easily on your existing grill and tabletops.
3. Time- In terms of speed, grills cooks faster as compared to griddles. They can also cook at very higher temperatures than griddles.  The open flames enable them to cook faster since they provide heat more quickly than the griddle burners.
4. Food texture- Grills add a smoky flavor to the food which means that they provide meats with a greater texture and taste as compared to griddles. Unlike grills, griddles provide foods which has a fried flavor. This means that most of the foods prepared in a griddle will have a fried taste due to the smooth cooking surface.

What are the Components of a Griddle?

Griddles are made up of 3 components which are;

1. Griddle plate- This is the most important part of a griddle because it is where you place the food when cooking. It is made of a metallic material that is able to conduct heat quickly and evenly. The surface should also be non-stick for easier cleaning. Griddle plates are available in different sizes which means that need to confirm that the griddle has enough surface for different types of foods.

2. Burners- These are the heating elements that are used in a griddle. They are usually located inside the metal box but they vary from one griddle to another. This means that some griddles have more burners than others. They also have an adjustment switch which enables you to control the propane outlet.

3. Griddle frame- This part consists of the frame and the wheels to enhance portability. Most of the portable options like those we have reviewed in this article do not have a frame. You will also find that bigger models are also equipped with different parts such as a side table, cutting board among others.

Griddle Accessories you Must Have

Whether you are planning to buy a gas griddle or you already have one, there are some griddle accessories you should have if you want to get the best experience. These accessories include;

1. Griddle cover- A griddle cover is among the most important things you should have because it protects the unit from moisture. It also protects it from dust, pollen and other external elements that may cause it to rust or corrode. However, you need to pick a cover that matches with the size of your griddle.
2. Griddle Accessory Tool Kit- It goes without saying that you will need different items when using a griddle. Griddle accessory tool kits come with everything you would require for outdoor or backyard griddle cooking. Vomelon Griddle Accessories Kit for Flat Top Grill  and Grill Griddle Accessories BBQ TOOL KIT-6Piece Stainless Steel Grilling are among the best sets that will give you the best value for your money. 
3. Griddle cookbook- A griddle cookbook will guide you on how to prepare different tasty foods using a griddle. It contains different recipes, ingredients and a step-by-step guide on how to cook different dishes. The Flippin Awesome Backyard Griddle Cookbook is a very detailed cookbook which you should not miss especially if you are not an expert.

How to Maintain an Outdoor Gas Griddle

1. Seasoning

 Just like when you are using a cast iron cookware, you need to season your griddle if you want it to serve you for many years. Seasoning also helps to prevent rusting and it also enhances the taste of your food. Once the seasoning gets absorbed on the steel, it causes the surface to turn black from silver. You can season your griddle by adding a layer of olive oil before you use it and after cooking. To do this effectively, you should follow these tips;

• Turn the burners and the griddle on at maximum temperatures.
• Clean the surface using a spatula to remove any food remains.
• Spray the hot griddle plate with water to remove stubborn food remains and stains.
• Use a paper towel to wipe the excess water until it is completely dry.
• Apply vegetable oil on the hot griddle plate and spread it using a clean paper towel.
• Remove any excess oil and leave the unit on for 20 to 30 minutes and then turn it off.
• Allow the griddle to cool down and then store it safely ready for use next time.

2. Location

Griddles are designed for outdoor use but they are not easy to use in windy conditions. This means that when using them outdoors, you need a griddle wind guard to protect them from direct wind.

3. Cleaning

You need to clean the griddle after use to remove oils from the food, dust, soot, grime and any food remains from the surface. Otherwise, corrosive elements may destroy the exterior coating and this will expose it to rusting.  

Apart from that, debris and dirt may block the propane passages. This will cause the flame to weaken which means that you will need more time to prepare your meals. Most griddles are very easy to clean because you only need to scrap any excess foods from the surface using a griddle scrapper and then wipe them off using 3M Scotch-Brite Griddle Cleaning Scour Pad or a paper towel. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a griddle better than a grill?

The good thing about griddles is that they retain the original flavor of your food. On the other hand, grilling gives the food a smoke flavor. Again, griddles are more portable than grills.

2. What is the difference between electric and gas griddles?

The major difference between the two is that electric griddles use electricity as their source of power while gas griddles use propane gas or natural gas. In terms of performance, gas griddles provide more heat as compared to electric griddles. However, they are a bit expensive and more dangerous than electric griddles.

3. Which are the best oils for seasoning a griddle?

Olive oil, coconut oil, vegetable oil, sesame oil and conola oil are the best for seasoning a griddle.

4. Are griddles healthy to use?

Most griddles come with a grease management system for collecting excess oils from the unit. As a result, they provide very healthy foods.

Wrapping Up

A gas griddle is among the most important items you should have if you love outdoor activities such as camping. The goods thing about these units is that they allow you to cook wholesome meals such as meat, eggs, pancakes, vegetables among others due to their flat surface. Unlike grills, griddles have a compact size that makes them easy to carry. They are also cheap, easy to clean and are made of durable materials. 

Gas griddles come with different features which means that you need to be careful when choosing. For example, some are only suitable for preparing meals for a small group while others have a large cooking surface which accommodates more foods. In case you have been searching for the best gas griddle, you can never go wrong with those we have reviewed in this article. They are all equipped with fantastic features to enhance performance and durability. They are also affordable and easy to maintain.