As a restaurant owner. If I hear an applicant if from the navy, especially a navy cook.. They're automatically hired. They are the hardest working efficient cooks around. And they take pride in the equipment and cleanliness.
As a 5 year griddle guy, this is great advice for the new gridlers. Extra tank does not cost much, but if it runs out when you are cooking, you fail, period. ALWAYS have a second tank ready to go. Probably the best advice ever for gridlers.
I got my first griddle a few weeks ago after watching your review of the Weber 28” Griddle. I liked how even the temps were. It’s just me and my wife I’m cooking for. It was affordable and is the right size for my patio. I used to make smash burgers on my big green egg with a little griddle but I’m 74 with some heart disease and with my less than optimal energy level the process of preparing the egg and getting it up to temperature was a bit too cumbersome. And since the place where I bought it (Ace Hardware) assembled and delivered it, I got it. I made smash burgers on brioche buns last night and my wife, who is recovering from some serious medical issues and doesn’t eat much, said they were very good and ate the whole thing. I’m going to try making some keto pancakes next. Thank you for all your videos, keep up the good work. I’m sure the Lord has a hand in it.
Just got my black stone for 65th BDAY!!! Found your videos and have watched 3 hrs worth. And I’m ready to cook….ordered a shirt. And going to be the envy on girls nite. Keep them coming…your informed,easy on the eyes, and great recipes.
I served on the USS Forrestal for 2 years and worked 7P-7A. Breakfast started at 2AM. Without a doubt, the best breakfast (not cooked by my mom), that I ever had. They had everything for breakfast you can think of every morning. All you could eat, including eggs to order however you wanted them!! Those cooks busted their butts every day to keep us well fed. Hats off to all those shipmates!!
A few things I added to my arsenal are a folding camp table, a canvas tool bag(I used a Husky) and a small cutting board/knife set(Cooking essentials from Dollar General $6.00) that actually fits in the bag. The two pouches on the outside of the bag hold the squirt bottles well and there is ample space inside for spatulas, tongs, spices ect.
First and foremost many thanks for your service, I just purchased the 36” Blackstone griddle for hubby’s Christmas gift and this video is very helpful. He is retired FDNY so I love the fire extinguisher in the background, you never want that next to your cooking area. Happy cooking and God Bless🙏👍
I love Navy Cooks! They are the BEST! I worked with them at NAS Miramar and my uncle is a retired Navy Master Chief-Cook! He’s the best cook in the World!
My father enlisted in the Army just out of HS. It was the tail end of WWII. He told me the cooks were the ones that weren’t to bright, the ones who didn’t have the highest IQ’s. That was Army during WWII. My brother in laws father was a Navy chef during Vietnam. He was far from stupid and a great guy. He also knew how to pick up arms and fight on the river boats. I can only wish some of that rubbed off on his grandsons because it surly didn’t rub off on his son.
I am new to this and not a cook whatsoever. My wife is. I learned how to use my Traeger Timberline 1300 and internal temp cooking was the key or game changer. I have wanted a flat top grill and found you on This channel. I have watched a ton of your videos and bought your must haves. Just getting started but looking forward to this journey. You were my inspiration to go ahead and do this. Thank you for this video and all of the others. I have learned so much to date and still watching! Bought the 36" Blackstone pro series because of your video comparison. This weekend I am going to try a big breakfast cook.
Just purchased a griddle yesterday very excited to get started. I cook exclusively with cast iron and or carbon steel on the charcoal grill. Instead of the towels I use the a stainless steel mesh scrubber to remove left over bits stuck to the cooking surface. Highly recommend using this instead clean up is much easier and way more efficient, it also keeps the cooking surface free from any fabric threads that may come off onto your cooking surface. Nice video thank you !
I just bought a Blackstone four burner griddle and this was the perfect video for me to finish up my buying of accessories. I didn’t think about the raised rack or having rounded edge spatulas to avoid scratching the cooktop. You earned yourself a new subscriber with just one video. Thank you!
As a rookie griddle cook, this video ticked ALL the boxes. As I'm sure you know, you can spend HOURS tumbling down the rabbit hole of accessories and still not have what you really need. Loved all of your recommendations, especially the details about rounded corners on spatulas and the utility of getting a good scrapper. Thanks for all the great advice!
I'm lucky in that I've got a natural gas line to my deck. I purchased the natural gas conversion kit for my new Blackstone so I never have to worry about running out of gas! I need to purchase that dome and wire rack though. Great video!
Shipmate! You bring me back to the ship and mess duty. The griddle Cooks were the BEST! I am grateful for your instructions and hope to grow my flat top skills watching your vids. Thanks Brother!...Long Live the diesel pushers! CV-43, CV-64 CV-61
That last shirt, these colors cut deep, that's an awesome shirt, Neal! Absolutely love your channel! Haven't pulled the trigger on a griddle yet but you have filled me with inspiration and will hopefully be getting one soon!! Take care and thank you for your service, both here and more importantly, in the military!!
What a great and thoughtful presentation. Someone just gave me a griddle and I have spent hours on youtube looking for info. If I had found you first, I could have saved so much time and had better information from the beginning. Thank you.
This is the best video I've seen it explains what I need for starting my BLACKSTONE COOKING. I can save money by not buying the stuff not needed . I new I was listening to a NAVY man talk
I bought a diamond plate cover on Amazon for my Camp Chef which fits perfectly, plus it has a hook on each side which hooks easily to the back of the griddle. I always have it hooked when grilling which works as a perfect backsplash. Guess I better get some squirt bottles to complete my set-up. Thanks for the content.
I just bought the same thing to put on a 36 that someone gave me. I already had a small 22 that came from Walmart and had the stand, lid and everything. I cleaned up the 36, re-seasoned it, bought an igniter and some replacement burners. I absolutely love the extra room. Now, I'm stoked about the new year and all the grilling I'll be able to do. Only issue with the 36, and its a minor one, is the cooktop is slightly warped. Looking for help on UA-cam for that now. I've mastered breakfast, cheeseburgers, stir fry, salmon and scallops and the occasional steak and pork chop. I feel like I've only scratched the surface. 2022 is going to be epic!
Very Informative. We got our Blackstone last week, and I’m having a ball. I’d love to get a shirt, but it would have to say Queen! Not all flattop cooks are men… ❤
A definite good watch for new folks with a flat top. I just got my first Blackstone and this was all useful knowledge. From one Navy vet to another....thanks!!
Totally agree about instant read thermometer. Must have. It’s the single most important item to get good grilling results. That said, when you measure, pick up the food using tongs and go in sideways. If you go in through the top while it’s still on the grill, it’s way too easy to push it in too far and get the thermometer tip too close to the grill itself. Then your temperature reading is not correct (high).
Good stuff, particularly for the newbs. I've got one of the common aftermarket metal covers that have two brackets that let it hang off the back of the griddle top. During the "monsoons" we had here in Texas last month I learned a nasty little lesson. Those hanging brackets are held on with pop rivets through the top, and unfortunately they let water through those tiny holes they have. Had to spot de-rust and re-season my griddle. So my tip for those with a similar type of cover is apply a bit of clear caulk to seal those rivets from water. I've also got that same HF tool box for patio use, we call it the War Wagon, great addition to the outdoor "kitchen". One other honorable mention item that some folks like is a "box" or tray on the front of the griddle to hold the bottles of product. Some of the companies that make the hard covers also offer those, but you can get better quality stainless steel ones from restaurant supply stores, usually for less money. They are called "speed rails" and come in a variety of styles and sizes for a custom application.
All great 👍🏻. Thanks. Do actually use a infared thermometer. If so how often. Would u recommend it. I didn’t put in there because i think its a band aid. I would rather teach other methods of understanding the temp vs relying on that thing. What u say…
@@TheFlatTopKing I use the IR gun regularly, though I also use methods like your "watch how the butter melts...." to gauge temp readiness. It is also useful for the stone in my pizza oven to gauge readiness. My word of caution would be that you are highly experienced compared to many of your viewers, so their experience and confidence with some of the "pro level" things you do is limited until they put in the time and effort to advance their skills. For them I think an IR is more useful, particularly when they are just starting into griddle cooking. For example, the technique you often recommend about lighting alternate burners and working with the temps available for speeding up or slowing down the cook process is going to be better understood if a visual cue like a temp reading is there for a guide.
Nice video and good tips. The scraper is #1, I rarely use two spatulas. When making smash burgers, I put the spatula down on the meat and press with the scraper that way I don’t bend my spatula. Also on the Camp Chef griddle, you can get the cheap Dollar Tree all-metal scrapers with the curved metal handle and hang them on the side of the griddle as wind blocks (a must in Texas!).
I'm very very new to flat top grilling and so far I have watched several of your videos. I have to say they have all been very informative and I have learned a lot. This particular one had some great tips/idea's for this new guy. Thank you very much for taking the time to share your knowledge and creating these information packed video's. I never thought this retired Coastie would learn anything from a squid. LOL! Thank you for your service brother!
I'm a new griddle owner and this is exactly what I've been looking for. Thanks for the list and links to the must have items. Smashed the like and subscribed and looking forward to seeing more! Thank you for your service to this great country!!
Great vid. I only us a spatula and scraper. I hardly use two spatulas. Agree with all the must haves. I like my square shaped dome from Wally World since the griddle is rectangular.
You just got a new subscriber. I finally got a 36" blackstone griddle yesterday. I put it together in the afternoon, but i still got to season it. Just ordered the essentials.
My 36" Blackstone was $279 from walmart and came with the lid, after looking at the prices of the covers I got a pretty good deal on it. Love cooking on there, first time using propane anything (I bbq with a real grill my whole life), grabbed a 2nd tank for the reason you mentioned. Plus if it freezes here in Texas again and we lose power for a week, cooking and heat will be a lot more convenient. Might get a couple more tanks just in case.
Love your videos, I am learning a lot since I am opening a small taqueria in my hometown, and I didn’t have any idea where to start, thanks guys!!! 🎉keep up the good work
Love my Blackstone and this was great content. I have everything less the “serving tray”. Never thought of that so I’m making several trips back and forth. One item I’d add to this list are small spray bottles. I keep Avo and EVO oil in mine and I’m able to mist the cook top for stir fry, after cleaning and seasoning, etc…. I use that all the time. Its a convenient way to prep the cook surface.
Very clear info. Thank you for your service and thank you for the tips! 30 year griller here but first season with a flat top... let's impress the kids this summer!
I used the sheet metal lid cover that came with my Blackstone and turned it into a hinged lid. There are already pre-punched holes in the back corners of the grill plate for hinges.
Thank you for your service man. These tips are really good, going to buy that rack and dome on Amazon asap because that's the perfect way to reverse sear. Just got my griddle today, stoked to start using it.
Great. Keep and spot on the must haves. For trays, I use the cookie sheets from SMAS to carry my gear out there. They are large enough and stiff enough to carry lots of gear/food. Thanks for sharing.
Winco 16 scraper can’t be beat. It’s what fast food restaurant use on flattops. It’s hands down best scraper. I removed the side tables and pushed into grill cubby surrounded by stone and concrete countertops to prevent extreme heat. Though even concrete gets hot.
Thank you for your service! I have to say this was one of the best videos I’ve seen as far as everything you need as a “newbie flat top griddle cook”. Glad to know I have most of these but there are some I don’t so thanks for this. Going shopping tomorrow. Also, new subscriber here.
Thank you for sharing your flattop grilling knowledge, it was very helpful. I will be watching all of your videos and I subscribed and hit the bell for all future videos. God bless you and your Bride.
@Flat Top King - To control the heat on the side shelves, I bough scrapers at the dollar store (3 for each side) that work as heat shields. They are similar to your scraper you love, but they are curled over on one side for a handle. They hang right on the lip of the flat top. They work great. I have a Blackstone, but it looks like they would work on a Camp Chef also. I wish I could post a picture of them.
Great video and excellent tips. One small caveat though. Are far as instant read thermometers, there can be only one. You have to go with a Thermapen. And I think this week they are running a Father's Day special on the classic for $59. As a long time BBQ guy and short time flat top grill guy, I can't recommend them enough.
As always Brother, great vid. Easy to follow, packed with useful information, along with the answers for why you like or prefer a piece of gear. Grilling with a flat top is a learning experiance, it's fun, it is relaxing, and you get to eat your success, ( and sometimes your failures, that way there is no evidence). I loved the content, must haves are a great selection, then there are the because I want them items. According to my Wife I have a lot of just because items. lol Thank you for sharing your expertise with us.
Thanks Steven. I dont know how far along you are on your griddling journey, But I just pp[posted video called flat top grilling for beginners and started a new playlist that has all the things included.
I like to have two spatulas but also a wide putty type scraper kinda like the bench scraper but with a handle. Comes in very handy for mixing and chopping up ingredients
I have several rectangular galvanized breakfast in bed/serving type trays I use for transporting supplies out to my grill. Always been happy with that purchase. Oh, for those using bacon grease or lard or tallow a stainless grease pot made with a handle and pour spout (dollar general has them right now for $6.50) would be great to warm up the fats to pourable consistency. Great ideas though. I'm looking for a camp stove for canning and figured I may as well utilize their other uses the rest of the season. I already have a grill, so a several burner griddle would be a nice addition.
I’ve had my flat top for a few months. Got all the gadgets except the dome. I use a foil pan but my biggest problem is I get in to big a hurry cooking. Then I end up missing or leaving out something. How can I slow down. I’ve watched a lot of videos but yours and Hussey are the best most informative. Thanks a ton.
Depending on your cooking level. I would suggest these two ideas. 1. Make an ingredients list. Make things easier by prepping inside so its your pace. Chop, measure etc. plus this means less whole ingredients to bring outside. 2. Is something I personally do. Think about the cook in your head with all the ingredients. You are thinking about pace , how each ingredient is added and when. What to look for as far as color etc. go over this with your completed ingredient list. From there you already have a flow in kind and the correct ingredients and measurements
Brilliant video. I love having the tools I NEED. I don't like gadgets just to have them. You obviously know what you are doing and are very efficient. Just subscribed.
That was very informative. I’m new to flattop cooking, so I need all the information I can get. Of e my son, Zeb, is my goto mentor when he is home. Thanks again.
This is an outstanding video. I'm very interested in expanding my repertoire when it comes to flat top grilling. I am interested in the benefits of the melting dome and resting rack and will be subscribing and learning from your channel. I have a stupid question concerning the tee shirts you have for sale. What is your best description for the difference in a classic tee shirt and a comfort tee? Finally, I'm an old Air Force vet myself so thank you for your service! "Anchors Aweigh" and Aim HIgh!!!
Just FYI........to have a few options in melting domes without breaking the bank, I have a tip for ya. Go to the Dollar Store (I got mine at Dollar Tree), purchase pans/metal bowls in different sizes. Drill a hole in the center/bottom of the pan, screw in a wood handle........whalaaaaa.........melting domes in all kinds of sizes! I have 9x13, 9x9, and a few bowls (aka domes). My hubby's idea when he couldn't find me the exact size dome I was looking for. Just FYI
Dollar tree has an all metal dough blade that makes for a really good scrapper. Personally I hate plastic handles on stuff around open flame. I'd rather have metal or wood.
I got a scraper like the one you have when I first got my griddle. Worked fine, but then I found the Blackstone cleaning kit on sale and the scrapper in there has a handle on it. REALLY like the handled scraper much better.
Great to hear. I always say what ever works the best for you. I used the Blackstone spatulas this week and despised them. No bend, heavy and too wide. BUT i did like the idea of the longer handle scraper. Especially when using water to release the food.
Great video I just used ours tonight and we loved it just looking around for tips I been cooking all my life and yes that last tool is a must have love our lack stone already I bought the black stone cover and grill ready kit gosh I'm sure this is one of our best investments yet besides our kids love the video keep them up u have a new follower
That is a really good set of must haves. You have me convinced to get the dome system that you recommend because it comes with the rack for multi temperature cooking/warming. The scraper is another tool I think I will pick up. I have been using a spatula I have which has a chisel tip on it but it's not as wide. I do appreciate your experience and thank you for your service.
Good video lots of good info. I looked for a good bottle and ended up using bottles for cycling they are much better quality and the top seals just in case you drop it.
For your griddles that have a hard cover/lid, do you still put a soft cover as well, or is it not necessary? We’re in South Florida and keeping our griddle under a covered deck if that makes a difference, but would appreciate your overall perspective. Thanks for all the videos, you’re a huge reason why we just sprung for our first griddle. More importantly, thank you for your service.
Much appreciated for the kind words....I have a big covered porch and dont have any extra soft cover...I use mine so much that I probably wouldnt get one but i can definitely understand why if you wanted extra...especially with pollen. thats the worst
@@TheFlatTopKing much appreciated! Down here in Miami our big issue is humidity, so the hard top was a no-brainer to help prevent rusting. However, since my Nexgrill came with a free soft cover (and condiment rack, bought it from BJ’s the Costco competitor), figured it was worth asking if both are really necessary or maybe overkill. I intend on using it at least weekly (starting a “Griddle and Pool Sunday” tradition with the family) so I’ll play it by ear, but good to know that you’re doing just fine using just the hard top and haven’t dealt with any long-term damage from the elements. Gives me peace of mind. Thanks again for the reply and looking forward to the next vids. Also congrats on that partnership with Pit Boss, huge accomplishment for your channel and well deserved!
Those hot side plates might work well as a warming section, use a large aluminum pan with a cover to transfer the heat and keep food warm ready to serve. Might be great for breads and rolls and such
FYI: Unless your Blackstone griddle comes with a manufacturer cover as a part of the griddle, it CANNOT be used to cover the food while cooking-it is not a cooking cover, it is not food grade steel, it is not for steaming, and it is not to be used to cover the food while cooking as it will warp-it is ONLY to be used to protect the griddle from the elements. You did not specify that, therefore I hope that your viewers read this comment.
Ill do some research and give it a shot. Quick question what temp do you normally cook on. Do you adjust often. What size do you have and lastly do you use the whole grill when cooking
@@TheFlatTopKing Ive never measured the surface temp but Im going to start. I run the burner on medium and it depends on what Im making but I will sometimes use the whole grill. Its a three burner. Not sure on the actual size. Its the medium sized Blackstone.
Have you ever used wind guards on the flattop? Supposedly that helps with the heat around the side tables and keeping the heat vertical to the griddle. Great video by the way.
As a restaurant owner. If I hear an applicant if from the navy, especially a navy cook.. They're automatically hired. They are the hardest working efficient cooks around. And they take pride in the equipment and cleanliness.
Well i appreciate that...I served with some great ones for sure
This reason alone is why I follow the channel. He has walked the walk.
"Amen Brother... Amen"
21 plus years in the Navy: no better breakfast than breakfast cooked to order by a navy mess crank. Excellent channel. Fly Navy
MidRats after a night out! The best Jerry, the BEST! (CV-64 USS Constellation, early ‘80’s)
"Thank YOU for your Service... "
My husband was in the Navy... (RIP)
Hard working men and women...
God Bless America
Thanks so much...and thank HIm as well..RIP...
@@TheFlatTopKing
Thank you...
As a 5 year griddle guy, this is great advice for the new gridlers. Extra tank does not cost much, but if it runs out when you are cooking, you fail, period. ALWAYS have a second tank ready to go. Probably the best advice ever for gridlers.
hey I appreciate that..thanks Scott
Just bought my first griddle. Long time griller. Best advice hands down.
I got my first griddle a few weeks ago after watching your review of the Weber 28” Griddle. I liked how even the temps were. It’s just me and my wife I’m cooking for. It was affordable and is the right size for my patio. I used to make smash burgers on my big green egg with a little griddle but I’m 74 with some heart disease and with my less than optimal energy level the process of preparing the egg and getting it up to temperature was a bit too cumbersome. And since the place where I bought it (Ace Hardware) assembled and delivered it, I got it. I made smash burgers on brioche buns last night and my wife, who is recovering from some serious medical issues and doesn’t eat much, said they were very good and ate the whole thing. I’m going to try making some keto pancakes next. Thank you for all your videos, keep up the good work. I’m sure the Lord has a hand in it.
Just wanted to say quickly that I truly appreciate that comment...means the world..
You are so good. I'm so relieved I found someone who actually knows what he's doing with the equipment.
I'm a fan.😁
Wow, thank you! Definitely much appreciated. We have several videos of how tos etc if your looking around
Just got my black stone for 65th BDAY!!! Found your videos and have watched 3 hrs worth. And I’m ready to cook….ordered a shirt. And going to be the envy on girls nite. Keep them coming…your informed,easy on the eyes, and great recipes.
WOW...hey thanks...thanks for the support. Reach out if we can help
I served on the USS Forrestal for 2 years and worked 7P-7A. Breakfast started at 2AM. Without a doubt, the best breakfast (not cooked by my mom), that I ever had. They had everything for breakfast you can think of every morning. All you could eat, including eggs to order however you wanted them!! Those cooks busted their butts every day to keep us well fed. Hats off to all those shipmates!!
A few things I added to my arsenal are a folding camp table, a canvas tool bag(I used a Husky) and a small cutting board/knife set(Cooking essentials from Dollar General $6.00) that actually fits in the bag. The two pouches on the outside of the bag hold the squirt bottles well and there is ample space inside for spatulas, tongs, spices ect.
Great to hear.
First and foremost many thanks for your service, I just purchased the 36” Blackstone griddle for hubby’s Christmas gift and this video is very helpful. He is retired FDNY so I love the fire extinguisher in the background, you never want that next to your cooking area. Happy cooking and God Bless🙏👍
Its the little things. Thank you and thank your husband for his service as well. Welcome to the family.
I love Navy Cooks! They are the BEST! I worked with them at NAS Miramar and my uncle is a retired Navy Master Chief-Cook! He’s the best cook in the World!
Ask him bout this saying.
We may not be the elite of the fleet but, without us the fleer won't eat
My father enlisted in the Army just out of HS. It was the tail end of WWII.
He told me the cooks were the ones that weren’t to bright, the ones who didn’t have the highest IQ’s. That was Army during WWII.
My brother in laws father was a Navy chef during Vietnam. He was far from stupid and a great guy. He also knew how to pick up arms and fight on the river boats. I can only wish some of that rubbed off on his grandsons because it surly didn’t rub off on his son.
@@user-qm9oo2fd2o you calling your brother in law stupid? 🤣
I am new to this and not a cook whatsoever. My wife is. I learned how to use my Traeger Timberline 1300 and internal temp cooking was the key or game changer. I have wanted a flat top grill and found you on This channel. I have watched a ton of your videos and bought your must haves. Just getting started but looking forward to this journey. You were my inspiration to go ahead and do this. Thank you for this video and all of the others. I have learned so much to date and still watching! Bought the 36" Blackstone pro series because of your video comparison. This weekend I am going to try a big breakfast cook.
Hey thats so cool...have a blast and reach out if we can help
Just purchased a griddle yesterday very excited to get started. I cook exclusively with cast iron and or carbon steel on the charcoal grill. Instead of the towels I use the a stainless steel mesh scrubber to remove left over bits stuck to the cooking surface. Highly recommend using this instead clean up is much easier and way more efficient, it also keeps the cooking surface free from any fabric threads that may come off onto your cooking surface. Nice video thank you !
I just bought a Blackstone four burner griddle and this was the perfect video for me to finish up my buying of accessories. I didn’t think about the raised rack or having rounded edge spatulas to avoid scratching the cooktop. You earned yourself a new subscriber with just one video. Thank you!
Hey Paula...really appreciate the support...reach out if we can help
Grillers!! Did you watch this post? Good! Now watch it yet again!! This cook is outstanding!! You don’t know this stuff !!
much appreciated Jack. Thanks brother.
Good to meet you, Brother. Service has that ability to bring Brothers and Sisters together on common ground. Retired Army Sniper.. glad to meet ya
FIrst thanks for your service....Nice to meet you as well...cheers
Thank u for your service God bless us all sending ❤❤ your way from my family to your family from Missouri
Thank you so much
As a rookie griddle cook, this video ticked ALL the boxes. As I'm sure you know, you can spend HOURS tumbling down the rabbit hole of accessories and still not have what you really need. Loved all of your recommendations, especially the details about rounded corners on spatulas and the utility of getting a good scrapper. Thanks for all the great advice!
Glad you enjoyed it
One of the best videos I’ve seen about griddle cooking.
TY
I love it when you emphasize “clean as you go”. This is a concept I learned in cook and baker school.
Absolutely....
I'm lucky in that I've got a natural gas line to my deck. I purchased the natural gas conversion kit for my new Blackstone so I never have to worry about running out of gas! I need to purchase that dome and wire rack though. Great video!
Very nice!...We don't have that option but would love it
Retired Submariner, Love your shout out to the service and loved your video
Awesome! Thank you!
Shipmate! You bring me back to the ship and mess duty. The griddle Cooks were the BEST! I am grateful for your instructions and hope to grow my flat top skills watching your vids.
Thanks Brother!...Long Live the diesel pushers!
CV-43, CV-64 CV-61
WOW...what a list...thanks Dan...really appreciate that...thanks for your service
That last shirt, these colors cut deep, that's an awesome shirt, Neal! Absolutely love your channel! Haven't pulled the trigger on a griddle yet but you have filled me with inspiration and will hopefully be getting one soon!! Take care and thank you for your service, both here and more importantly, in the military!!
Thank you....
What a great and thoughtful presentation. Someone just gave me a griddle and I have spent hours on youtube looking for info. If I had found you first, I could have saved so much time and had better information from the beginning. Thank you.
Well you got me now. Welcome to the family.
This is the best video I've seen it explains what I need for starting my BLACKSTONE COOKING. I can save money by not buying the stuff not needed . I new I was listening to a NAVY man talk
Go NAVY!
I bought a diamond plate cover on Amazon for my Camp Chef which fits perfectly, plus it has a hook on each side which hooks easily to the back of the griddle. I always have it hooked when grilling which works as a perfect backsplash. Guess I better get some squirt bottles to complete my set-up. Thanks for the content.
I just bought the same thing to put on a 36 that someone gave me. I already had a small 22 that came from Walmart and had the stand, lid and everything. I cleaned up the 36, re-seasoned it, bought an igniter and some replacement burners. I absolutely love the extra room. Now, I'm stoked about the new year and all the grilling I'll be able to do. Only issue with the 36, and its a minor one, is the cooktop is slightly warped. Looking for help on UA-cam for that now. I've mastered breakfast, cheeseburgers, stir fry, salmon and scallops and the occasional steak and pork chop. I feel like I've only scratched the surface. 2022 is going to be epic!
Kudos to a Navy man! My dad served in the Navy during the Korean War. Thanks for the must have list!
Absolutely. Thank you for commenting
Very Informative. We got our Blackstone last week, and I’m having a ball. I’d love to get a shirt, but it would have to say Queen! Not all flattop cooks are men… ❤
Hell yeah man, graduated RTC in 2016 and still active duty as an MM just got the Blackstone in time for my sons 2nd birthday
Hey thats awesome...thanks for your service
A definite good watch for new folks with a flat top. I just got my first Blackstone and this was all useful knowledge. From one Navy vet to another....thanks!!
Hey shipmate....thanks for your service...
Totally agree about instant read thermometer. Must have. It’s the single most important item to get good grilling results. That said, when you measure, pick up the food using tongs and go in sideways. If you go in through the top while it’s still on the grill, it’s way too easy to push it in too far and get the thermometer tip too close to the grill itself. Then your temperature reading is not correct (high).
thanks bud..good tip
Good stuff, particularly for the newbs. I've got one of the common aftermarket metal covers that have two brackets that let it hang off the back of the griddle top. During the "monsoons" we had here in Texas last month I learned a nasty little lesson. Those hanging brackets are held on with pop rivets through the top, and unfortunately they let water through those tiny holes they have. Had to spot de-rust and re-season my griddle. So my tip for those with a similar type of cover is apply a bit of clear caulk to seal those rivets from water.
I've also got that same HF tool box for patio use, we call it the War Wagon, great addition to the outdoor "kitchen".
One other honorable mention item that some folks like is a "box" or tray on the front of the griddle to hold the bottles of product. Some of the companies that make the hard covers also offer those, but you can get better quality stainless steel ones from restaurant supply stores, usually for less money. They are called "speed rails" and come in a variety of styles and sizes for a custom application.
All great 👍🏻. Thanks. Do actually use a infared thermometer. If so how often. Would u recommend it. I didn’t put in there because i think its a band aid. I would rather teach other methods of understanding the temp vs relying on that thing. What u say…
@@TheFlatTopKing I use the IR gun regularly, though I also use methods like your "watch how the butter melts...." to gauge temp readiness. It is also useful for the stone in my pizza oven to gauge readiness. My word of caution would be that you are highly experienced compared to many of your viewers, so their experience and confidence with some of the "pro level" things you do is limited until they put in the time and effort to advance their skills. For them I think an IR is more useful, particularly when they are just starting into griddle cooking. For example, the technique you often recommend about lighting alternate burners and working with the temps available for speeding up or slowing down the cook process is going to be better understood if a visual cue like a temp reading is there for a guide.
@@rodderbob great explanation. Ty.
Nice video and good tips. The scraper is #1, I rarely use two spatulas. When making smash burgers, I put the spatula down on the meat and press with the scraper that way I don’t bend my spatula. Also on the Camp Chef griddle, you can get the cheap Dollar Tree all-metal scrapers with the curved metal handle and hang them on the side of the griddle as wind blocks (a must in Texas!).
great tips...thanks
Ordered my Camp Chef this morning. Your videos are great. Thank you for your service.
Awesome! Thank you and Thank you.....
I'm very very new to flat top grilling and so far I have watched several of your videos. I have to say they have all been very informative and I have learned a lot. This particular one had some great tips/idea's for this new guy. Thank you very much for taking the time to share your knowledge and creating these information packed video's. I never thought this retired Coastie would learn anything from a squid. LOL! Thank you for your service brother!
Glad you like them and more importantly...thanks for your service
Thank you so much. I'm a newbie you have really helped me. Every time I see one of your vid on blackstone I'm here.
Glad to hear it!
I'm a new griddle owner and this is exactly what I've been looking for. Thanks for the list and links to the must have items. Smashed the like and subscribed and looking forward to seeing more! Thank you for your service to this great country!!
Glad it was helpful! Thanks Brian....reach out if you need help...
@@TheFlatTopKing Thanks, sure will! Just joined your FB page The Griddle Group. Looks like a great place to find griddlin' info!!
The Ooni cast iron pans with removable handles and wood holders are amazing too. Great concept so handles are not hot during and after cooking .....
Great vid. I only us a spatula and scraper. I hardly use two spatulas. Agree with all the must haves. I like my square shaped dome from Wally World since the griddle is rectangular.
TY
You just got a new subscriber. I finally got a 36" blackstone griddle yesterday. I put it together in the afternoon, but i still got to season it. Just ordered the essentials.
My 36" Blackstone was $279 from walmart and came with the lid, after looking at the prices of the covers I got a pretty good deal on it. Love cooking on there, first time using propane anything (I bbq with a real grill my whole life), grabbed a 2nd tank for the reason you mentioned. Plus if it freezes here in Texas again and we lose power for a week, cooking and heat will be a lot more convenient. Might get a couple more tanks just in case.
Awesome to hear..thanks for commenting...
Just bought one for 279 as well. Great deal for the newer model. Enjoy
Thanks for the video and more importantly, thanks for your service to our country.
Absolutely. Much appreciated
Love your videos, I am learning a lot since I am opening a small taqueria in my hometown, and I didn’t have any idea where to start, thanks guys!!! 🎉keep up the good work
hey thanks bud....
Love my Blackstone and this was great content. I have everything less the “serving tray”. Never thought of that so I’m making several trips back and forth. One item I’d add to this list are small spray bottles. I keep Avo and EVO oil in mine and I’m able to mist the cook top for stir fry, after cleaning and seasoning, etc…. I use that all the time. Its a convenient way to prep the cook surface.
Right on! Thats a good idea. I will have to try a spray bottle. Thanks
Great library of videos, and thank you for serving to keep us safe.
Yes Sir.
Thank you for your service to our country.
Absolutely, thank you
Very clear info. Thank you for your service and thank you for the tips! 30 year griller here but first season with a flat top... let's impress the kids this summer!
Hey I appreciate that...cheers..my more recent videos we included more smoking videos that share the griddle...great 1-2 combo for sure
Awww hubby was Navy too! Just shared this video to him because we gave him a flat top for his Bday last week!
Hey thank him for his service....and thanks for commenting
@@TheFlatTopKing I will and thank you for your service too!
I used the sheet metal lid cover that came with my Blackstone and turned it into a hinged lid. There are already pre-punched holes in the back corners of the grill plate for hinges.
Thank you for your service man. These tips are really good, going to buy that rack and dome on Amazon asap because that's the perfect way to reverse sear. Just got my griddle today, stoked to start using it.
Love my Blackstone. Have the big one for home, and the smaller one for the RV. Thank you for your service, sir.
Thanks Brian.
Great. Keep and spot on the must haves. For trays, I use the cookie sheets from SMAS to carry my gear out there. They are large enough and stiff enough to carry lots of gear/food. Thanks for sharing.
Great tip! I will look into that. My round one has a big crack in it. It was super thin to begin with.
#7 - I bought a 3 pack of cookie sheets to transport things in and outside and am very happy with them.
I have been using those as well...great idea
Thank you for your service. From one Sailor to another. Be safe! ⚓️.
Thanks for all the great tips
Cheers Shipmate and thank you as well
thanks for your service to this beautiful country
It's my pleasure
the bench scraper .... I've had the same one for at least 16 years, who knows how long my dad used it before. but it got the like and subscribe lol!
Much appreciated. Welcome to the family
Winco 16 scraper can’t be beat. It’s what fast food restaurant use on flattops. It’s hands down best scraper. I removed the side tables and pushed into grill cubby surrounded by stone and concrete countertops to prevent extreme heat. Though even concrete gets hot.
great idea...thanks
Thank you for your service! I have to say this was one of the best videos I’ve seen as far as everything you need as a “newbie flat top griddle cook”. Glad to know I have most of these but there are some I don’t so thanks for this. Going shopping tomorrow. Also, new subscriber here.
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for the sub and welcome to the family
Thank you for sharing your flattop grilling knowledge, it was very helpful.
I will be watching all of your videos and I subscribed and hit the bell for all future videos.
God bless you and your Bride.
Hey much appreciated and welcome to the family
@Flat Top King - To control the heat on the side shelves, I bough scrapers at the dollar store (3 for each side) that work as heat shields. They are similar to your scraper you love, but they are curled over on one side for a handle. They hang right on the lip of the flat top. They work great. I have a Blackstone, but it looks like they would work on a Camp Chef also. I wish I could post a picture of them.
Thats a fantastic idea. Ill check it out. Ty
Haha...used mine for the 1st time today and at the end I told my daughter, I need a carrying tray for all of the stuff!! aka #7
I have one and sometimes don’t use it and think to myself. I need a tray ….. you think i would learn.
I just cleaned up a old cookie baking tin to use as a tray.
Thank you for your service. I was in the Navy also. I just discovered this channel. Thanks for all the really good information.
Hey thanks for your service...cheers
Great video and excellent tips. One small caveat though. Are far as instant read thermometers, there can be only one. You have to go with a Thermapen. And I think this week they are running a Father's Day special on the classic for $59. As a long time BBQ guy and short time flat top grill guy, I can't recommend them enough.
As always Brother, great vid. Easy to follow, packed with useful information, along with the answers for why you like or prefer a piece of gear. Grilling with a flat top is a learning experiance, it's fun, it is relaxing, and you get to eat your success, ( and sometimes your failures, that way there is no evidence). I loved the content, must haves are a great selection, then there are the because I want them items. According to my Wife I have a lot of just because items. lol Thank you for sharing your expertise with us.
Thanks Steven. I dont know how far along you are on your griddling journey, But I just pp[posted video called flat top grilling for beginners and started a new playlist that has all the things included.
@@TheFlatTopKing Thanks Brother, I will watch them.
Nice video. I just purchased my first flat top griddle. I’ll watch more of your videos.
Hey that’s great. Thanks
great video! thanks for it and also thanks for your service to our country!
Absolutely....thanks for watching
On #5, I have a friend that uses a brick wrapped in tinfoil as a bacon press. Talk about inexpensive! 🤣👍🏻
Absolutely....reuse mustand and ketcup bottles for water bottles
I like to have two spatulas but also a wide putty type scraper kinda like the bench scraper but with a handle. Comes in very handy for mixing and chopping up ingredients
Thanks for sharing!
I have several rectangular galvanized breakfast in bed/serving type trays I use for transporting supplies out to my grill. Always been happy with that purchase. Oh, for those using bacon grease or lard or tallow a stainless grease pot made with a handle and pour spout (dollar general has them right now for $6.50) would be great to warm up the fats to pourable consistency. Great ideas though. I'm looking for a camp stove for canning and figured I may as well utilize their other uses the rest of the season. I already have a grill, so a several burner griddle would be a nice addition.
great suggestions...thanks Robin...
I’ve had my flat top for a few months. Got all the gadgets except the dome. I use a foil pan but my biggest problem is I get in to big a hurry cooking. Then I end up missing or leaving out something. How can I slow down. I’ve watched a lot of videos but yours and Hussey are the best most informative. Thanks a ton.
Depending on your cooking level. I would suggest these two ideas.
1. Make an ingredients list. Make things easier by prepping inside so its your pace. Chop, measure etc. plus this means less whole ingredients to bring outside.
2. Is something I personally do. Think about the cook in your head with all the ingredients. You are thinking about pace , how each ingredient is added and when. What to look for as far as color etc. go over this with your completed ingredient list. From there you already have a flow in kind and the correct ingredients and measurements
never new about flat top grills until I stumbled onto your site
Brilliant video. I love having the tools I NEED. I don't like gadgets just to have them. You obviously know what you are doing and are very efficient. Just subscribed.
Hey I appreciate that..really do..thanks
Very informative vid, subbed and 👍, can't knock the hustle 👏 appreciate the info. keep pushing brother 🙏 God bless. vid is intro to griddle 101 no bs.
Thanks for the sub! I appreciated that Ray
Great video! Big help! Thank you for your service!
Needed this video as we add the griddle to our food cart. Great job!
Awesome! Thank you!
That was very informative. I’m new to flattop cooking, so I need all the information I can get. Of e my son, Zeb, is my goto mentor when he is home. Thanks again.
Glad it was helpful Lloyd....
I've got everything except the prep station. Just looking for a good price right now. Thank you, and you nailed it!!
Thanks Gary.
I got myself a craftsman tool box/ chest. Holds all my stuff and rolls under patio when needed😮
This is an outstanding video. I'm very interested in expanding my repertoire when it comes to flat top grilling. I am interested in the benefits of the melting dome and resting rack and will be subscribing and learning from your channel. I have a stupid question concerning the tee shirts you have for sale. What is your best description for the difference in a classic tee shirt and a comfort tee? Finally, I'm an old Air Force vet myself so thank you for your service! "Anchors Aweigh" and Aim HIgh!!!
Fine job!! This was extremely helpful!! Thank you from Arizona 🇺🇸
Thanks Ryan. 🇺🇸
Just FYI........to have a few options in melting domes without breaking the bank, I have a tip for ya. Go to the Dollar Store (I got mine at Dollar Tree), purchase pans/metal bowls in different sizes. Drill a hole in the center/bottom of the pan, screw in a wood handle........whalaaaaa.........melting domes in all kinds of sizes! I have 9x13, 9x9, and a few bowls (aka domes). My hubby's idea when he couldn't find me the exact size dome I was looking for. Just FYI
Great ideas. Thank you.
Dollar tree has an all metal dough blade that makes for a really good scrapper.
Personally I hate plastic handles on stuff around open flame. I'd rather have metal or wood.
I got a scraper like the one you have when I first got my griddle. Worked fine, but then I found the Blackstone cleaning kit on sale and the scrapper in there has a handle on it. REALLY like the handled scraper much better.
Great to hear. I always say what ever works the best for you. I used the Blackstone spatulas this week and despised them. No bend, heavy and too wide. BUT i did like the idea of the longer handle scraper. Especially when using water to release the food.
Excellent advice thank you for your expertise and insightful thoughts
Glad it was helpful Chris...reach out if we can help
Thank you for your service sir ! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Thanks for you service, shipmate ⚓️ 🇺🇸
You bet Thanks for your service as well....
Great video I just used ours tonight and we loved it just looking around for tips I been cooking all my life and yes that last tool is a must have love our lack stone already I bought the black stone cover and grill ready kit gosh I'm sure this is one of our best investments yet besides our kids love the video keep them up u have a new follower
Really appreciate that...cheers and if ya need help along the just reach out...
Great comments. I need to get the cooling rack, dome.
I honestly love it. Great purchase no doubt. Two in one
That is a really good set of must haves. You have me convinced to get the dome system that you recommend because it comes with the rack for multi temperature cooking/warming. The scraper is another tool I think I will pick up. I have been using a spatula I have which has a chisel tip on it but it's not as wide. I do appreciate your experience and thank you for your service.
Hey thanks for reaching out… i appreciate that
Good video lots of good info. I looked for a good bottle and ended up using bottles for cycling they are much better quality and the top seals just in case you drop it.
Hey great idea..i will look into that...thanks a bunch..will definitely relay that
For your griddles that have a hard cover/lid, do you still put a soft cover as well, or is it not necessary? We’re in South Florida and keeping our griddle under a covered deck if that makes a difference, but would appreciate your overall perspective.
Thanks for all the videos, you’re a huge reason why we just sprung for our first griddle. More importantly, thank you for your service.
Much appreciated for the kind words....I have a big covered porch and dont have any extra soft cover...I use mine so much that I probably wouldnt get one but i can definitely understand why if you wanted extra...especially with pollen. thats the worst
@@TheFlatTopKing much appreciated! Down here in Miami our big issue is humidity, so the hard top was a no-brainer to help prevent rusting. However, since my Nexgrill came with a free soft cover (and condiment rack, bought it from BJ’s the Costco competitor), figured it was worth asking if both are really necessary or maybe overkill. I intend on using it at least weekly (starting a “Griddle and Pool Sunday” tradition with the family) so I’ll play it by ear, but good to know that you’re doing just fine using just the hard top and haven’t dealt with any long-term damage from the elements. Gives me peace of mind.
Thanks again for the reply and looking forward to the next vids. Also congrats on that partnership with Pit Boss, huge accomplishment for your channel and well deserved!
@@dolfan058 👊
Thank you for your check list great information buddy banging!
Thanks Joe.
Those hot side plates might work well as a warming section, use a large aluminum pan with a cover to transfer the heat and keep food warm ready to serve. Might be great for breads and rolls and such
I have everything you mentioned, except the rack. I have to get one of those. I liked that thing where you added the smoking chips under the dome.
The lighter? if so it a creme burlee torch
Hello from Crossville, TN! Great video! God bless you my friend!
Hello there neighbor...
FYI: Unless your Blackstone griddle comes with a manufacturer cover as a part of the griddle, it CANNOT be used to cover the food while cooking-it is not a cooking cover, it is not food grade steel, it is not for steaming, and it is not to be used to cover the food while cooking as it will warp-it is ONLY to be used to protect the griddle from the elements. You did not specify that, therefore I hope that your viewers read this comment.
thanks for that....I will keep it and refer to this
Dumb question but how would I know if it's a manufacturer cover?
Can you make a video on temperature control? I feel like I overcook everything or cook way too fast on my Blackstone. Love the content!
Ill do some research and give it a shot. Quick question what temp do you normally cook on. Do you adjust often. What size do you have and lastly do you use the whole grill when cooking
@@TheFlatTopKing Ive never measured the surface temp but Im going to start. I run the burner on medium and it depends on what Im making but I will sometimes use the whole grill. Its a three burner. Not sure on the actual size. Its the medium sized Blackstone.
@@MikeGibson711 it just gives me some insight on the temps. Thanks
Buy an infrared thermometer. I usually cook at 350* or less. I also generally keep one side about 50-60 cooler for item that cook faster.
The MQ brought up a lot of valid points
These things are great! I never worked at a fast food joint or even a Japanese grill, but now I can pretend! I'm ready.
You can do it! Just have fun...its only food
Great video! New Blackstone owner. Have been digging in on the videos. Great stuff.
Hey thanks Mo...welcome to the family...reach our if we can help
Have you ever used wind guards on the flattop? Supposedly that helps with the heat around the side tables and keeping the heat vertical to the griddle. Great video by the way.
In my last posted video...we bought the new 22in blackstone and used wind guards for the first time...I discuss why its the first time etc...
I like the toolbox idea. I was an MS in the Navy as well. USS Harry E Yarnell CG-17.
since you said MS that means you are older..I started out as a MS then was apart of the switch to CS...USS Nassau, Camp David, Pentagon Sec of Def...