Yes, you absolutely can cook on slate, and it has a long history of being used as an effective cooking surface. Slate is a naturally occurring material that does not burn, making it suitable for direct heat applications.
Historical Use of Slate in Cooking
Historically, slate was quite commonly utilized as a cooking griddle. Workers, for instance, would often heat a piece of slate over a fire to cook their lunch. Its ability to withstand high temperatures without combusting, combined with its excellent heat retention properties, made it an ideal, readily available surface for grilling and baking over an open flame.
Modern Considerations for Cooking on Slate
While slate itself is highly heat-resistant and doesn't burn, modern construction and safety regulations often have very specific requirements for the fire performance of building materials and components, especially in permanent installations. This means that while an impromptu outdoor slate griddle is feasible, incorporating slate into a commercial kitchen or fixed outdoor cooking structure might require adherence to strict building codes.
When considering cooking on slate today, several factors are crucial for safety and optimal results:
- Food-Grade Quality: Not all slate is created equal. Ensure the slate you use for cooking is natural, untreated, and free from harmful chemicals, sealants, or dyes that could leach into food when heated.
- Thermal Shock: While slate handles high heat, it can be susceptible to thermal shock. Rapid changes in temperature (e.g., placing cold slate directly onto a very hot fire, or dousing a hot griddle with cold water) can cause it to crack or shatter.
- Even Heating: Slate excels at retaining and distributing heat evenly once it reaches temperature, which helps in cooking food uniformly.
- Purity and Source: Be mindful of the slate's origin. Some slate may contain trace minerals that could be undesirable in cooking. Opt for slate specifically marketed or known for culinary use.
How to Safely Cook on Slate
To enjoy the benefits of cooking on slate, follow these practical steps:
- Select Appropriate Slate: Choose a thick, natural, untreated slab of slate, ideally at least 1/2 inch to 1 inch thick, to ensure durability and good heat retention.
- Clean Thoroughly: Before first use, wash the slate with hot water and a stiff brush. Avoid soap if possible, as it can be absorbed.
- Gradual Heating: Place the slate on a heat source (like a grill, campfire coals, or gas burner) and allow it to heat up slowly and gradually. This prevents thermal shock.
- Seasoning (Optional but Recommended): Once warm, you can lightly oil the surface to create a natural non-stick coating, similar to cast iron. Use a high smoke point oil like grapeseed or avocado oil.
- Cook Your Food: Place your food directly onto the hot slate. It's excellent for searing meats, grilling vegetables, or even baking flatbreads.
- Cool Down Gradually: Allow the slate to cool naturally on the heat source or a heat-safe surface before cleaning.
- Cleaning: Scrape off any food residue with a spatula, then wipe or rinse with hot water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or steel wool, which can scratch the surface.
Benefits of Cooking with Slate
Utilizing slate as a cooking surface offers several advantages:
- Exceptional Heat Retention: Keeps food warm for longer, ideal for serving directly from the griddle.
- Even Cooking: Provides a consistent cooking temperature across its surface.
- Natural Non-Stick Surface: When properly seasoned, food tends not to stick.
- Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of foods, from meats and seafood to vegetables and pizzas.
- Unique Flavor Profile: Some chefs believe it imparts a subtle, earthy flavor to food.
Potential Drawbacks and Precautions
While beneficial, there are also aspects to consider:
- Fragility: Slate, especially thinner pieces, can be heavy and brittle, making it prone to chipping or cracking if dropped or subjected to rapid temperature changes.
- Sourcing: Finding genuinely food-safe, untreated slate can sometimes be a challenge.
- Weight: Larger pieces of slate can be quite heavy and cumbersome to move.
- Oil Absorption: Slate can absorb oils and develop stains over time, which may require specific cleaning methods.
Summary: Slate as a Cooking Surface
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Heat Resistance | Does not burn; withstands high temperatures. |
| Heat Retention | Excellent for even cooking and keeping food warm. |
| Food Safety | Crucial to use natural, untreated, food-grade slate. Avoid chemically treated or sealed slate. |
| Durability | Prone to thermal shock and chipping; handle with care. |
| Cleaning | Simple scraping and hot water rinse; avoid harsh chemicals. |
| Historical Use | Commonly used as a griddle by workers for cooking over fire. |
| Modern Use | Excellent for grilling and searing, but ensure it's food-safe and consider fire regulations for permanent installations. |
In conclusion, cooking on slate is a time-tested method that offers unique benefits for various dishes. By selecting the right type of slate and following proper heating and maintenance procedures, you can safely and effectively enjoy this natural cooking surface.
