how to season stainless steel grill grates

How To Season Stainless Steel Grill Grates : Essential Guide

Grilling is maybe the quickest and most convenient way to make a good feast, and that is one of the main reasons people like it so much. But did you know that keeping the grill in good condition is equally important as the type of fuel we use? In fact, a seasoning a grill is an essential part of proper maintenance. So when you think about this, it becomes clear that it is much better to learn how to season stainless steel grill grates and do it regularly then feel other tast of your food.

Now, some people wonder if seasoning stainless steel greats is really necessary. You may choose to not season your grill grates. In this case, however, you will have to be prepared to spend a lot of time removing the parts of food that got stuck. Keep in mind also that some things won’t go away and that this will ultimately change the taste of your favorite food.

What Is Seasoning and Why Is It Important?

If you are new to grilling you may be wondering what in the world we mean by seasoning grill grates. Okay, so seasoning is the process that involves very high heat and oil, similar you what you do with cast iron pans. To make sure that your grill is serving you for a long time, the best is to season new grill grates before the first use and each time after you used it. Oil protects the grill from rust and makes it much easier to clean.

Is Seasoning Your Grill the Same for All Types of Grills?

In short, yes. Later in the text, we will describe some steps for seasoning stainless steel grates you can apply for every type of grill. If your machine arrived with cast iron grates, they will appreciate the seasoning. Just remember that porcelain grates don’t need seasoning.

How to season stainless steel grill grates: Step By Step Guide

  1. First of all, you need to choose the right oil. Many oils are flammable and will burn when exposed to high temperatures. If it happens, the process will be in vain, and the food will not be tasty. Many people recommend using canola or peanut oil for seasoning grill grates. Besides, you can also use avocado, vegetable, or sunflower oil.
  2. When you want to season stainless grill, you’ll also need a paper towel, grill brush, and a spray bottle.
  3. If you used the grill before, wait that it gets completely cold. In case you have a completely new grill, and it is the first time you are learning how to season a stainless steel grill, you are good to go.
  4. Again, this applies only if you already used the grill. After it cooled down, take the brush to clean food remains and other dirt.
  5. Fill the spray bottle with oil that can endure high temperatures. Spray the oil over the grate. Make sure to clean the excess oil with a paper towel.
  6. Now you can start the grill. Turn to a high temperature and leave for about half an hour. After some time, the grates will get darker because of the oil and the smoke. When you’re learning how to season stainless steel grill grates you must also keep in mind that the darker they become during this process, the better will be the taste of food.
  7. That is it, your GrillGrate is ready for the next BBQ party.

Feature

OXO Brush

Char-Broil Grill Brush

BBQ Grill Brush 

GRILLART Grill Brush

Material

Silicone

Nylon Bristle

Stainless steel

Stainless steel

Bristle Type

Silicone

Nylon

Bristle-free

Stainless steel

Heat Resistance

Up to 600°F (315°C)

Up to 400°F (204°C)

High heat resistance

High heat resistance

Handle Material

Non-slip rubber

Non-slip rubber

Plastic and rubber combination

Plastic and rubber combination

Price

Check Price

Check Price

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Check Price

Canola Oil: Short Aside

Canola oil perfect for seasoning, and doesn’t do anything in terms of flavor. As the most important thing concerning grill is actually the flavor, we suggest trying some of these things while seasoning the grates. Remember that you will be doing this while the grill is working, so make sure to use tongs.

  • Dip half of the onion in the oil and rub the grates with it
  • You can also do it with bacon
  • Alternatively, use a piece of fat from the meat
  • Dip a mesquite wood chip and rub the grates

Brand

Amazon Brand Happy Belly

Healthy Harvest

Mantova

Packaging

Bottle

Bottle

Spray

Quantity

1 quart (32 fl oz)

1 gallon (128 fl oz)

5 oz

Residue or Build-up

Minimal

Minimal

Minimal

Price

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Do You Have to Season a New Grill?

If you have a cast-iron grill, then absolutely yes. In case you have a stainless steel grill, seasoning is not mandatory. It is, however, recommended. This process prevents corrosion. Plus, it is much simpler to clean the grates if you season them. Besides, when seasoning the new grill, you ensure that all the dust and contaminants get destroyed.

Maintaining Your Stainless Steel Grates: Useful Tips

  • If you are using the grill for first remove the cooking grids and wash them with soap and water
  • Dry them completely
  • Preheat the grill
  • Apply the oil with a brush or a spray bottle
  • If it’s not the new grill, preheat it before cooking
  • Clean it with a bristle brush
  • Spray the oil

Conclusion

And that’s about it! Hopefully, now you know how to season stainless steel grill grates, folks! Make sure to do this each time after you used the grill, and your machine will last for much longer. You will see that the machine will last longer! Besides, the seasoning will make your food taste so much better.  And as you could notice, it is an effortless and quick process! 

Perhaps you also have some advice you wish to share? Feel free to write them in the comments!

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