The Blackstone Griddle is a versatile cooking tool that allows you to prepare a wide variety of meals outdoors. With its flat top surface, it is perfect for cooking everything from burgers and pancakes to stir-fries and fajitas. However, did you know that you can take your griddle game to the next level by using the air fryer attachment? Yes, you heard it right! With the air fryer attachment, you can achieve crispy and delicious results without the need for excessive oil or deep frying. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of using the air fryer attachment on a Blackstone Griddle, so let’s dive in!
Step 1: Assemble the Air Fryer Attachment
Before you can start using the air fryer attachment, you need to properly assemble it. Begin by attaching the air fryer basket to the attachment arm. Make sure it is securely locked in place to prevent any accidents during cooking. Next, attach the attachment arm to the side of your Blackstone Griddle. The attachment arm should slide on easily and lock into place. Once the attachment is securely assembled, you are ready to move on to the next step.
Step 2: Preparing the Griddle
Like any cooking surface, it is important to properly prepare your Blackstone Griddle before using the air fryer attachment. Start by cleaning the griddle surface thoroughly to remove any residue or previous cooking remnants. This will help ensure that your food cooks evenly and prevents any unwanted flavors from lingering. Once the griddle is clean, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the surface. This will help prevent sticking and allow your food to cook evenly.
Step 2.1: Preheating the Griddle
Before you can start air frying, it is crucial to preheat the griddle. This will help ensure that your food cooks quickly and evenly. Preheating will take a few minutes, so turn on the burners beneath the griddle and set them to medium-high heat. Allow the griddle to heat up for about 10-15 minutes. This will ensure that the surface reaches the desired temperature for air frying.
Step 3: Preparing the Food
Now that your griddle is prepared and preheated, it’s time to prepare the food you want to cook with the air fryer attachment. The possibilities are endless when it comes to air frying on a Blackstone Griddle. You can cook anything from French fries and chicken wings to vegetables and even desserts! Cut your food into the desired size and season it with your favorite spices and herbs. Remember, seasoning is key to achieving a delicious flavor profile.
Step 4: Placing the Food in the Air Fryer Basket
Once your food is prepared, it’s time to transfer it to the air fryer basket. Carefully open the basket and place your food inside, making sure to leave some space between each piece. Overcrowding the basket can result in uneven cooking, so it’s important to give your food enough room to circulate and crisp up.
Step 4.1: Adjusting the Temperature and Time
Adjusting the temperature and cooking time is crucial to achieving perfectly air-fried food. Most air fryer recipes will provide suggested temperatures and times, but it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your food as it cooks. Depending on the type and size of the food you are cooking, you may need to make slight adjustments. As a general rule, set the temperature to the recommended level and start with the recommended cooking time. You can always add a few extra minutes if needed.
Step 5: Air Frying on the Blackstone Griddle
With your food placed in the air fryer basket and the temperature and time set, it’s time to start air frying on your Blackstone Griddle. Carefully slide the attachment arm with the air fryer basket onto the preheated griddle surface. Make sure it is securely locked in place and positioned centrally on the griddle. The burners should be directly beneath the attachment for even cooking. Close the griddle hood to maintain the heat and lock in the flavors.
Step 5.1: Flipping and Shaking the Food
Depending on the type of food you are air frying, it may require flipping or shaking halfway through the cooking process. This will help ensure that all sides of the food are evenly cooked and crispy. Check the recipe or use your judgment to determine when it’s time to flip or shake the food. Be careful when handling the air fryer attachment, as it can be hot. Use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.
Step 6: Checking for Doneness
Once the recommended cooking time has elapsed, it’s essential to check your food for doneness. Different foods will have varying signs of being cooked and ready to eat. For example, when air frying chicken, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature if needed. For other foods like fries or vegetables, visually inspect them for a golden brown color and a crispy texture.
Step 7: Serving and Enjoying
Congratulations! You have successfully air fried your food using the Blackstone Griddle air fryer attachment. Carefully remove the air fryer basket from the griddle using oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves. Allow the food to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth. Transfer the air-fried food to a platter or individual plates, and garnish as desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy and flavorful creations.
In conclusion, the air fryer attachment for the Blackstone Griddle is a game-changer when it comes to outdoor cooking. By following this step-by-step guide, you can elevate your griddle experience and enjoy deliciously crispy food without the guilt of excessive oil or deep frying. Whether you’re cooking up a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, the air fryer attachment is a must-have accessory for any Blackstone Griddle owner. So, fire up your griddle, assemble the attachment, and get ready to indulge in a whole new world of air frying possibilities. Happy air frying!