Restoring the Surface of a Cast Metal Cooktop Griddle
Cooktop griddles are usually cast from iron, aluminum or steel, and their finish can deteriorate over time. Through a process of rust removal, thorough cleaning and reseasoning, the cooking surface can be brought back to working condition, provided it is maintained correctly afterward.
By Drew Scott
Get your griddle back on the stove.
A griddle designed for a gas or electric cooktop lets you prepare several pancakes, omelets or grilled cheese sandwiches in one batch, so you do not have to manage multiple skillets at once. These griddles are commonly cast from metal such as iron, aluminum or steel. When the surface turns worn, rusted or dull, reseasoning the griddle can bring the finish back.
Getting Rid of Rust
Improper storage, washing with soap and water, or letting the griddle air dry can leave the surface rusted. Rust has to be cleared away before the surface can be refinished. Work steel wool over the rusted spots to wear the rust down. For heavier rust, switch to medium-grit sandpaper and rub it in circular motions. Treat both sides of the griddle, not only the cooking surface.
Washing the Griddle
Preparing to reseason is one of the few situations where washing a cast metal griddle with soap is appropriate. A griddle that is especially dirty may need to sit in water for 30 to 60 minutes. Fill a large sink or basin with hot water and dish soap, put the griddle in, and scrub it using a nylon brush. Let it soak if needed, then scrub it again while holding it under hot running water. Use a microfiber cloth to dry the griddle fully.
Building the Seasoning Back Up
Seasoning is what gives cast metal its natural non-stick quality, and a properly seasoned griddle has a black appearance that indicates the finish is intact. To reseason a cleaned griddle, set it on the heating element and coat the surface liberally with melted shortening, lard or peanut oil. Set the burners to medium. Once the griddle starts to smoke, shut off the heat and let it cool. Remove the leftover oil from the surface using a paper towel. Another option is to put the oiled griddle in a 350 F oven for one hour, let it cool inside the oven, then wipe it down.
Keeping It in Good Shape
After reseasoning, proper care helps keep the griddle from getting damaged again. Wash it with water only after each use, since soap and detergents will remove the seasoned layer. Dry the griddle with a cloth, or heat it briefly on the stovetop so any water evaporates quickly. Before putting the griddle away, wipe it with a paper towel dampened with peanut or vegetable oil. When not in use, keep the griddle in a cool, dry location.
