In any busy kitchen, commercial griddles are often at the heart of the operation. Their versatility makes them an essential tool for foodservice operators, allowing chefs to cook everything from breakfast through dinner. Whether you're browning, searing, toasting, or warming, a griddle can handle it all. To keep your griddle running at peak performance and ensure its longevity, it's crucial to follow the correct cleaning and maintenance procedures.
Griddle Plate Materials: Steel, Chrome, and Composite
Commercial griddles come with three main types of plates: steel, chrome, and composite. Each material has its advantages and requires different cleaning techniques. Understanding the differences between these plate options is key to maintaining the performance and extending the lifespan of your equipment.
- Steel Plates: The most common option, steel plates are durable and cost-effective. However, they emit more heat into the kitchen and may lose their aesthetic appeal after the first use. Steel plates are also the most labor-intensive to clean, often requiring a griddle brick or specialized detergents.
- Chrome and Composite Plates: These options, while typically more expensive, offer easier cleaning and better heat retention with less heat radiating into the kitchen.
Essential Griddle Cleaning Tips
No matter the material, it’s important to clean your commercial griddle regularly. Use an appropriate griddle scraper throughout service to clear debris from the cooking surface. To cut down on end-of-day cleaning, wipe down the backsplash, side splashes, and front of the griddle during service. Additionally, empty the grease drawer as needed and apply a light coat of oil to the cooking surface after cleaning.
What Not to Do:
- Avoid using ice to cool the griddle—this can cause thermal shock, potentially damaging the cooking surface. Instead, use room temperature water for cooling and cleaning.
Cleaning Steel Griddle Plates
Steel griddles require extra care to maintain their performance and appearance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning a steel plate:
- Cool the Griddle: After service, allow the griddle to cool down to a safe temperature (between 300°F and 350°F).
- Apply Water: Use room temperature water to soften any residue or food particles.
- Scrape Debris: Use a griddle scraper to remove food debris and grease from the surface.
- Season the Plate: Apply a thin coat of oil and use a griddle brick to scrub the surface, moving with the grain of the metal while the griddle is still warm.
- Alternative Method: If using a griddle-specific detergent, be sure to thoroughly rinse the surface with room temperature water afterward.
- Clean Hard-to-Reach Areas: For stubborn spots or hard-to-reach areas, use a putty knife to remove debris.
Maintenance for Long-Term Efficiency
Griddle cleaning is just one aspect of maintaining a well-functioning commercial kitchen. Creating a routine maintenance schedule for all your kitchen equipment can help prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your appliances. While professional cleaning services are available, the above tips can help your kitchen staff handle most cleaning tasks in-house.
By following these cleaning and maintenance guidelines, you’ll ensure that your NexChef commercial griddle stays in top shape, delivering excellent performance for years to come.
