Have you ever thought of boiling water on a flat-top grill? How? That sounds confusing and impossible! Those were the thoughts that prompted me to research whether it is possible to boil water on a Griddle.
To my surprise, boiling water on a flat-top grill is not new. This practice has been there for a long time, and it is straightforward. So, how do you boil water on a Griddle since it has a flat-top surface? Read on
Can You Boil Water On A Griddle?
Yes, you can. Place your saucepan, kettle, or pot on the grill’s cooking surface. However, ensure you use cast-iron skillets only since any other skillet may not be safe. A griddle produces heat that can go as high as 500 degrees Fahrenheit, which might destroy some cookware.
Understanding How Water Boils
At room temperature, water is usually around 20C or 68F. However, its boiling point is 212F or 100C.
Considering its room temperature and boiling point, it’s no doubt that it requires much heating to boil water.
If you are trying to boil water on a stove at the highest temperature, it will take between 8-10 minutes. That is if you have placed a lid on your pan.
On the other hand, a flat-top grill can attain temperatures above 500F. Meaning boiling water with a griddle is faster than using a stove.
When you use a flat-top grill, it takes only around 2-3 minutes for the water to reach the boiling point. Again, this method is safe; all you need is to watch the water to ensure it doesn’t spillover.
How to Boil Water on a Griddle
- Ensure that your Blackstone griddle is fully turned off.
- Put some cold water into a pan or pot. Ensure the pan or pot is suitable for use with a grill.
- Place the pan or pot with water gently on the griddle and turn on the gas. Avoid dragging the pot or pan on the surface of the grill.
Step 4: Ensure you watch the water as it heats up on the griddle. Don’t leave the pan or pot unattended at any given time while on the grill.
Step 5: Allow the water temperature to rise to around 212 degrees Fahrenheit. When you begin to see bubbles, it is an indication that the water has reached its boiling point.
Step 6: When the water is thoroughly boiled, gently lift the pan or the pot to avoid scratching the grill’s surface.
Can You Place Pans and Pots on a Griddle?
Yes, you can place pans and pots on a griddle. But, it depends on the kind of material and its ability to withstand high heat.
If your pan or pot can handle temperatures above 500 Fahrenheit, you can comfortably use it on a hot Griddle. Some manufacturers do not specify the exact heat limit on their pans and pots. So, if you are not sure, do not risk boiling water with the equipment on a Griddle.
Most standard pans and pots are not suitable to use on a Griddle. However, they will do an excellent job when used with your stove.
The best material to use on a hot flat-top grill is cast iron. It can handle temperatures above 500 Fahrenheit without changing its form.
Why Use Cast Iron to Boil Water on a Grill
The primary reason why most of the pots and pans that we use on stoves can’t be used on a griddle is that the temperature difference between a stove and a griddle is too huge.
The grill temperature is hot enough to damage or even melt some of the cookware that we use.
Cast iron is the only cookware that can withstand the griddle heat, which is as high as 500F. Their design allows them to endure this extreme temperature. As such, they are not only the best bet but also the safest choice for you.
Trying to use any other pot or pan is both risky and disastrous. Eventually, you may have to buy another pan or pot. Worse still, it could cause unwanted damage to your grill, something you need to avoid.
Cast iron pots and pans are excellent in conducting and distributing heat. As such, they can get most of the heat from out of the griddle. In addition, they ensure that the heat is evenly distributed, hence making it easy for water to boil.
Another significant reason why cast iron is the best bet is its durability. It’s the only cookware that you can be assured of using for a lifetime, irrespective of how often you use it at high temperatures.
What is the Best Size of Pans and Pots to Use?
Can you imagine boiling water with a pan! I find it hilarious, but yes, it’s doable.
When boiling water on a Griddle, it is not advisable to use larger pans and pots than usual. Do not go beyond one quart. A small grill will not accommodate a large pot or pan, it will take longer to boil the water, and the kitchenware may get damaged.
A large pan or pot draws a lot of heat and energy from the griddle. As a result, the grill is likely to get damaged too.
Most Griddle pans that I have come across have a size between 10-12 inches wide. Among the three that I have used chiefly include:
- Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Griddle Pan: It has a 10.5-inch diameter. It has a round shape, and it comes pre-seasoned.
- Ecolution Nonstick Square Griddle Pan: It’s an 11 by 11 inch (width x length) pan. It’s among the cheapest in the market.
It features a heavy-gauge aluminum construction bottom and a non-slip silicone handle. It’s excellent at heat distribution.
- Cuisinart Double Burner Griddle Pan: This pan measures ten by 18 inches (width and length). Its stainless steel handles remain cold throughout the whole heating process. It’s also a hand-wash-only pan that distributes heat evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a griddle as a stovetop?
Yes, you can use a griddle on a stovetop. There are two main types of Griddles, electric and stovetop. Stovetop Griddles are best used on a gas stove, but you can also use them on an electric range.
When using a griddle on a smooth top electric stove, be extra careful and avoid using a cast iron Griddle.
Can you put water on a hot Blackstone griddle?
To remove stuck-on food, pour some water on your griddle while it is warm. The water will get hot, making it easier for the stubborn residues to soften and peel off.
Can you boil water on a grill?
Yes, it is possible to boil water on a flat-top grill. You can place a pot of water on the grill and give it some time. The water will take longer to boil than when placed on a typical stove because the griddle will need to get hot first to heat the pot.
Can you boil water on an electric skillet?
Yes, you can boil water on an electric skillet. Water boils at 212 degrees Fahrenheit, and the skillet heats up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Wrapping it Up
Griddles have many purposes; boiling water is just one among these. If you have been hesitant about whether you can use your flat-top grill for boiling water, then go ahead and use it.
What’s more, if you have been using a stove to boil your water, you can try a new way of doing it. You can boil your water faster using a grill.
However, keep in mind that not all pans or pots are suitable for use with a griddle. The heat produced by a grill is too high, and only cast iron cookware can stand such heat.