Blackstone 1814 Portable Propane Griddle review perfect for camping and outdoor cooking

Description

Highlights of the Blackstone 1814 Stainless Steel Propane Gas Portable Griddle

Cooking outdoors has never been my strong suit, but the Blackstone 1814 Griddle made me rethink everything. It’s compact, portable, and surprisingly powerful for its size. With a 12,000 BTU burner and 17 inches of cooking surface, this flat-top griddle is a game-changer. Whether you’re flipping pancakes or grilling burgers, it delivers consistent heat across the entire surface, thanks to its clever H-style burner design.

The stainless steel finish not only looks sleek but is also incredibly durable. I’ve used it on uneven camping grounds and even my wobbly patio table. The adjustable rubber feet kept it steady every single time. Portability is another major win for this griddle. It’s compact enough to fit in my car trunk, making it perfect for tailgating or camping trips.

Compact Design Meets Big Cooking Power

At first glance, I underestimated the cooking capacity of this griddle. But I was in for a surprise. The 268 square inches of cooking space easily handled my weekend breakfast marathon. I managed to cook 9 burgers, 12 eggs, or 9 pancakes at once, which was more than enough for my family of four.

What really stood out was the rapid heating. The 12,000 BTUs get the griddle hot quickly, so there’s no waiting around. The built-in igniter is a breeze to use, and I loved how adjustable the heat is. Whether I needed a low simmer for bacon or high heat for stir-fry, this griddle delivered.

Boons of Cooking with the Blackstone Griddle

• Portable and Lightweight: Easy to carry for outdoor activities like camping and tailgating.
• Durable Stainless Steel Build: Resistant to rust and wear, ensuring long-term use.
• Even Heat Distribution: The “H” burner eliminates hot spots and ensures perfectly cooked food.
• Spacious Cooking Area: Large enough to cook for a small family or a group of friends.
• Easy Cleanup: The integrated grease tray catches drips, and the cooking surface wipes clean effortlessly.

Shortcomings to Note

• Requires Propane: You’ll need to purchase 1 lb. propane bottles or a hose adapter for larger tanks, which aren’t included.
• Limited Cooking Space for Larger Groups: While sufficient for small gatherings, it might not suffice for bigger parties.
• No Lid Locking Mechanism: The hood doesn’t lock for transport, which made me a bit cautious when moving it around.

Product Comparisons

I’ve also tried other portable griddles like the Coleman RoadTrip and the Cuisinart CGG-501. While both have their merits, the Blackstone model stands out with its even heat distribution, thanks to the “H” burner design. The Coleman griddle has a similar cooking area but struggles with heat consistency, leaving some pancakes undercooked.

The Cuisinart, on the other hand, has a more compact design but lacks the stainless steel durability that Blackstone offers. Additionally, the Blackstone griddle’s grease management system is far superior, which makes cleanup a breeze compared to its competitors.

Quality for Price Assessment

The overall price-to-quality ratio of this griddle is impressive. You’re getting a durable, portable, and highly functional cooking device for a reasonable price. While it might not have all the advanced features of more expensive models, it delivers on what truly matters: consistent cooking performance and ease of use.

If you’re someone who loves outdoor cooking or needs a reliable tabletop solution for your backyard, this griddle is worth every penny. It’s a solid investment for anyone who values portability without compromising on quality.

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