Let’s Talk About Barebones Cast Iron Griddle
The Barebones Cast Iron Griddle is a versatile cooking tool designed for both indoor and outdoor use, brought to us by Barebones. Its reversible design, featuring a flat griddle on one side and a grill surface on the other, makes it a standout option for anyone who enjoys cooking a variety of foods. It’s more than just a cooking surface; it’s an invitation to culinary adventure, whether you’re whipping up pancakes at a campsite or grilling burgers in your backyard.
I’d been searching for a cooking solution that could handle both delicate items like eggs and also provide proper grilling for meats when camping. My old setup involved carrying separate pans and a portable grill, which was bulky and inconvenient. The promise of the Barebones Cast Iron Griddle to do both, and to do it well, piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the substantial weight, a hallmark of cast iron, hinting at its durability and heat retention capabilities. The pre-seasoning with sunflower oil was a welcome touch, indicating it was ready for immediate use. The offset handles looked sturdy and practical for lifting and moving the griddle, even when hot.
Compared to other portable grills and griddles I’ve used, the Barebones Cast Iron Griddle seemed to offer a more robust and versatile cooking solution. Some other portable grills are flimsy and unevenly heated; others dedicated griddles lack the grilling option. This product promised a blend of durability and versatility I hadn’t found elsewhere.
My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation. I couldn’t wait to test its performance in real-world conditions and see if it lived up to its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Barebones Cast Iron Griddle to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Barebones Cast Iron Griddle was during a weekend camping trip in the foothills of the Rockies. I used it on a two-burner propane stove and also directly over a carefully managed bed of coals from the campfire. The weather was dry and mild, ideal for outdoor cooking.
The Barebones Cast Iron Griddle excelled in both cooking scenarios, especially over the coals where the even heat distribution was impressive. Cooking scrambled eggs on the flat side was effortless, with no sticking and even browning. Flipping it over, I grilled burgers that had beautiful sear marks and cooked perfectly.
Using the griddle was surprisingly easy, thanks to the pre-seasoning and the well-designed handles. I did need to be mindful of the heat distribution on the two-burner stove, adjusting the flame to avoid hotspots, but it was a minor adjustment. The only small issue was getting used to the weight when moving it around, especially when hot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple camping trips and backyard cookouts, the Barebones Cast Iron Griddle has proven to be remarkably durable. The cast iron shows no signs of warping or cracking, and the seasoning has only improved with use. Regular cleaning and re-seasoning have kept it in excellent condition.
Maintenance involves scraping off any food residue after each use and then wiping it down with a lightly oiled cloth. The wide grease capture channels are excellent at keeping the cooking surface relatively clean, reducing flare-ups and making cleanup much easier. With proper care, this griddle should last for years.
Compared to previous cast iron products I’ve owned, the Barebones Cast Iron Griddle has exceeded my expectations in terms of even heating, versatility, and ease of maintenance. It has become an indispensable part of my outdoor cooking gear, outperforming other griddles I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Barebones Cast Iron Griddle
Specifications
The Barebones Cast Iron Griddle features a 19.5-inch reversible cooking surface, providing ample space for cooking for a crowd. It weighs 13.4 lbs, a testament to its sturdy cast iron construction. Its dimensions are 21.25 x 11.5 x 1.5 inches, which makes it a good fit for most two-burner camping stoves.
The griddle is made from stainless steel and cast iron, combining durability with effective heat distribution. It’s pre-seasoned with sunflower oil, offering a natural non-stick surface right out of the box. It has wide grease capture channels, minimizing flare-ups and simplifying cleanup.
These specifications translate to excellent performance; the weight ensures even heat distribution, the reversible design offers cooking versatility, and the pre-seasoning makes for easy food release and cleanup.
Performance & Functionality
The Barebones Cast Iron Griddle performs its job exceptionally well, providing consistent and even heat distribution whether used on a stove, grill, or over an open fire. Its reversible design allows for cooking a wide variety of foods, from pancakes and eggs to burgers and vegetables. The flat side is perfect for delicate items, while the grill side imparts authentic grill marks and flavor.
Its strengths lie in its versatility, durability, and consistent performance. A potential weakness is its weight, which might be a consideration for backpackers or those prioritizing ultra-light gear. Ultimately, the griddle exceeds expectations for its design and purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The Barebones Cast Iron Griddle features a robust and well-thought-out design, made from high-quality cast iron. Its substantial weight speaks to its durability and ability to retain heat evenly. The offset handles are ergonomically designed for easy handling and storage, making it easy to move the griddle around, even when it is hot.
The griddle is easy to use, even for beginners. The pre-seasoned surface minimizes sticking, and the reversible design provides options for different cooking styles. There’s minimal learning curve, thanks to its intuitive design.
Durability & Maintenance
The Barebones Cast Iron Griddle is built to last, with its heavy-duty cast iron construction ensuring longevity. Regular cleaning and re-seasoning, as needed, will keep it in excellent condition for many years. Proper storage in a dry place prevents rust and corrosion.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only scraping, cleaning, and light oiling after each use. With proper care, the griddle can withstand years of use, making it a worthwhile investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Barebones Cast Iron Griddle comes ready to use, pre-seasoned with sunflower oil, eliminating the need for initial seasoning. There are no specific customization options for the griddle itself, as its design is optimized for its intended purpose. However, there are a variety of cast iron care products that are compatible with the griddle.
The griddle is compatible with various cooking setups, including two-burner stoves, grills, and open fires. It works seamlessly with standard grilling tools, making it a versatile addition to any cooking setup.
Pros and Cons of Barebones Cast Iron Griddle
Pros
- Versatile reversible design allows for cooking a wide variety of foods.
- Even heat distribution ensures consistent cooking results.
- Durable cast iron construction provides long-lasting performance.
- Pre-seasoned with sunflower oil for a natural non-stick surface.
- Wide grease capture channels minimize flare-ups and simplify cleanup.
Cons
- Significant weight may be a drawback for some users.
- Requires regular cleaning and re-seasoning to maintain performance.
Who Should Buy Barebones Cast Iron Griddle?
The Barebones Cast Iron Griddle is perfect for:
- Campers and outdoor enthusiasts who want a versatile and durable cooking surface.
- Backyard grillers who enjoy cooking a variety of foods.
- Anyone looking for a reliable and long-lasting cast iron griddle.
Who should skip this product?
- Backpackers who prioritize ultra-light gear.
- Those who prefer non-cast iron cooking surfaces.
A must-have accessory is a good cast iron cleaning brush and a high-quality cooking oil for re-seasoning.
Conclusion on Barebones Cast Iron Griddle
The Barebones Cast Iron Griddle is a versatile and durable cooking tool that excels in both indoor and outdoor environments. Its reversible design, even heat distribution, and easy maintenance make it a standout choice for anyone who enjoys cooking a variety of foods. The price of $74.99 is justified by its quality, versatility, and longevity, offering excellent value for money.
I would highly recommend the Barebones Cast Iron Griddle to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile cooking solution. It’s an investment that will pay off with years of delicious meals. So, get yourself a Barebones Cast Iron Griddle, fire up your grill, and start cooking!