Viking VDSC536T Use and Care Manual - Page 11

Operation Surface Operation Cooking Vessels Each cook has his or her own preference for the particular cooking vessels that are most appropriate for the type of cooking being done. Any and all cooking vessels are suitable for use in the range and it is not necessary to replace your present domestic vessels with commercial cookware. This is a matter of personal choice. As with any cookware, yours should be in good condition and free from excessive dents on the bottom to provide maximum performance and convenience. Note: When using big pots and/or high flames, it is recommended to use the front burners. There is more room in the front and potential cleanup at rear of appliance due to staining or discoloration will be minimized. Griddle/Simmer Plate (on applicable models) The optional 15,000 BTU griddle is constructed of machined steel with a blanchard finish and is uniquely designed to offer excellent cooking performance as well as easy clean up. The griddle is equipped with an electronic thermostat to maintain an even temperature across the griddle once the desired temperature has been set. The griddle has a power "ON" indicator light which glows when the griddle thermostat has been turned on. This will cycle on and off as needed to indicate the thermostat is maintaining the selected temperature. Before the griddle is used it is important to season the griddle. This seasoning process will change the appearance of the griddle plate. However, it will also prevent food from sticking and protect the surface from moisture. Seasoning the Griddle Before the First Use • Scrub the griddle plate with a mixture of one quart warm water and 1/4 cup white vinegar, using a blue Scotch-Brite™ pad. Dry thoroughly. • Wash griddle with warm, soapy water. Rinse off and dry thoroughly. • Season griddle by thinly coating the surface with approximately 1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon unsalted vegetable oil. Apply to entire griddle using a paper towel or clean cloth. Let oil sit on griddle for approximately 1 hour and then wipe with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb any residual oil. The griddle is now ready to be used. 20 Surface Operation Griddle/Simmer Plate Operation • Turn the griddle control knob counterclockwise to the desired temperature setting. The power "ON" indicator light will glow indicating the griddle thermostat is on. • The double griddle has two thermostat control knobs which control separate burners located beneath the griddle. • When the griddle has reached the desired temperature, the power Griddle Assembly "ON" indicator light will turn off indicating the griddle is preheated Grease trough to the selected temperature. • Use liquid cooking oil or butter for eggs, pancakes, French toast, fish Griddle and sandwiches to prevent sticking. • Routinely scrape loose food particles with a metal spatula during cooking to make the cleanup easier and to avoid the particles mixing with the food. • To turn the griddle off, turn the thermostat knob clockwise to the "OFF" position. • ALWAYS turn to the"OFF" position when not in use and lower the heat between cooking loads. Griddle/Simmer Plate Clean Up & Care • It is not necessary to wash the griddle after every use. When light cooking is performed and AFTER the griddle has cooled, simply wipe down the surface with a clean cloth or paper towel. The oils in the food which cooked on the griddle surface will naturally season the griddle providing a "natural" non-stick surface. • After heavy cooking is completed and the griddle is still warm enough to create steam, pour a small amount of club soda at room temperature directly on the griddle. Using a metal spatula, pull oils and food particles toward the trough in front. Wipe entire surface with a paper towel. Follow with the seasoning process of applying oil. • Keeping the griddle well seasoned will prevent the griddle from developing surface rust. If the griddle is not used for a period of time, it must be re-seasoned. The griddle must be re-seasoned each time after it is washed. • Non-stick cooking spray is not recommended as it contains a high water content that has a tendency to burn quickly. • Corn oil is not recommended as it has a high sugar level. It will caramelize and burn on the surface making it very difficult to remove. 21 Operation