Stainless steel cooking grids don’t need as much maintenance as cast iron grids. They have the ability to retain even heat for long periods of time. Stainless steel grids are shiny straight out of the box, although you may notice a little bit of discoloration after the first few uses. This is the steel developing a patina that can range from yellow to nearly black. This patina is good. It is the steel protecting itself from corrosion, although it does need a little help from you. The first couple of uses of your stainless steel cooking grids will prove to be a little sticky because the patina has not been built up yet. After your first time use maintenance is performed, remember to allow your food to cook completely on one side before attempting to flip it. The food will self-release once the food touching the grids is sufficiently cooked. PRO TIP: Never grill frozen food, especially on new stainless steel cooking grids. The heat will cause the food to contract and hold on to the hot surface.
Follow these steps when using your stainless steel grids for the very first time:
Follow these steps if your grill isn’t brand new:
Like your favorite frying pan, Napoleon’s Porcelainized Cast Iron Cooking Grids provide a nonstick surface for cooking when properly seasoned and cared for. If you swear by that afore mentioned frying pan, you will swear by these cooking grids. Properly maintaining them is easy and should be done every fourth or fifth grilling session. Cast Iron withstands high temperatures like a champ, providing fantastic searing. They retain heat and distribute it evenly. They’re a little higher maintenance than stainless steel grids, but it’s well worth the effort for the incredible meals. Cast iron cooking grids are not completely smooth. Use of paper towel is not recommended as the fibers will stick to the grids and no one want’s paper towel with their meal. Paper towel is also thin and flammable, use a Silicone Basting Brush to apply oils instead.
Follow these steps when using your cast iron grids for the very first time:
It is recommended that you follow these steps after you’ve seasoned the first time, and every time you grill:
We suggest that you re-season your grids every four months, or once at the beginning and once at the end of grilling season. This will maintain the finish on your cast iron cooking grids and prevent corrosion.
a) Interior
Heat grill to searing temperatures before use then clean cooking grids with a good brush. Stainless Steel brush should not be used on Cast Iron cooking grids. Clean once again straight after use. Brass brush should be used for cast iron.
Keep interior clean of any food drippings by using a brush to scrape of any residue stuck to burners and sear plates.
Keep your drip tray clean from any debris. This should be cleaned often to avoid flare ups.
See tip re seasoning your stainless steel or cast iron cooking grates
b) Exterior
Due to Malta climate it is important to take care of any stainless steel exposed to the elements. Keep away from building products, salt and chlorine or other products which contain chemicals. Wipe clean regularly (incl Winter) to avoid stare residue sitting on steel for a long time. Use Napoleon 10235 Grill Protector to shine and protect. WD40 can also be used to clean and maintain the exterior stainless steel surface.
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