Cooking salmon on a Blackstone griddle offers a fantastic way to achieve that delicious, slightly crispy skin and perfectly flaky interior. But knowing exactly how long to cook it can be tricky. This guide will walk you through achieving salmon perfection on your Blackstone, covering various thicknesses and preferred doneness.
Factors Affecting Salmon Cooking Time on a Blackstone
Several factors influence the cooking time for salmon on a Blackstone griddle:
- Thickness of the Salmon Filet: Thicker fillets naturally require longer cooking times than thinner ones.
- Desired Doneness: Do you prefer your salmon rare, medium, or well-done? Each level of doneness requires a different cooking time.
- Heat of the Griddle: A hotter griddle will cook the salmon faster, while a lower heat will require more time. Aim for medium-high heat for most applications.
- Size of the Filet: Larger fillets may need a bit longer to cook through evenly than smaller ones.
How to Tell When Salmon is Done
Before we delve into specific cooking times, let's learn how to determine doneness:
- Visual Cue: The salmon will turn opaque from translucent as it cooks. The flesh will flake easily with a fork when it's done.
- Temperature Check: Using a food thermometer is the most accurate method. The internal temperature should reach:
- 125°F (52°C): Rare
- 130-135°F (54-57°C): Medium-rare
- 140-145°F (60-63°C): Medium
- 150°F (66°C) and above: Well-done (though most prefer salmon less cooked)
Cooking Time Guide for Salmon on a Blackstone
This guide provides approximate cooking times. Always use a food thermometer for accuracy, especially with thicker fillets.
For 1-inch thick salmon fillets:
- Medium-High Heat: 4-6 minutes per side. Total cooking time 8-12 minutes.
For 1.5-inch thick salmon fillets:
- Medium-High Heat: 5-7 minutes per side. Total cooking time 10-14 minutes.
For Thicker Fillets (over 1.5 inches):
- Medium-High Heat: Increase cooking time by 2-3 minutes per side for every additional ½ inch of thickness. Consider flipping less frequently to ensure even cooking. Use a food thermometer to check for doneness.
Tips for Cooking Salmon on a Blackstone
- Prep the Griddle: Ensure your Blackstone griddle is clean and properly heated before placing the salmon on it. A lightly oiled surface will prevent sticking.
- Skin-Side Down First: Place the salmon skin-side down first to achieve a crispy skin.
- Don't Overcrowd: Leave enough space between the salmon fillets to allow for even cooking.
- Seasoning: Season generously with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you prefer before cooking.
- Adjust Heat as Needed: Monitor the heat and adjust accordingly to prevent burning or undercooking.
What temperature should I cook salmon on a Blackstone?
Maintain a medium-high heat on your Blackstone griddle. This will allow for a good sear while ensuring even cooking through the center of the fillet. Avoid high heat, which could burn the outside before the inside is cooked.
How do I prevent salmon from sticking to my Blackstone?
Lightly oil the griddle surface with a high-smoke point oil, such as canola or avocado oil, before placing the salmon. This will create a barrier between the fish and the griddle, preventing sticking.
How long should I cook 2 inch thick salmon on a Blackstone?
For 2-inch thick salmon fillets, expect a cooking time of approximately 7-9 minutes per side on medium-high heat. However, consistently monitor the internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure it reaches your desired doneness. This thickness might require more frequent temperature checks.
Remember, these are guidelines. The ideal cooking time will depend on your specific griddle, the thickness of your salmon, and your preferred level of doneness. Always check the internal temperature with a food thermometer to ensure the salmon is cooked to perfection. Enjoy!
