Do you want to prepare a Creme Brulee worthy of a real chef in an easy way and without spending much? Then look at our guide, in which we explain the product’s main characteristics needed to perform this (and other) operations or a cooking torch.
We will help you make a correct investment, avoiding wasting money. If you want to know the most appreciated torches by users, read the reviews below, but if you don’t have much time to devote to reading, we can anticipate which ones have convinced us the most.
Table of Contents
How to choose the best cooking torch?
Preparing a Creme Brulee before the astonished eyes of the guests for dinner could be a memorable experience. But, to do this, you need a good cooking torch.
Continue reading the guide to discover its fundamental characteristics, and if you are interested in purchasing, look at our ranking with the review of the most popular caramelizes. Without further research, you can find what you are looking for in a few minutes.
Possible uses
What can be done with a cooking torch? The first thing that comes to mind is caramelizing the sugar on the crème brûlé or the Catalan cream, two very similar but not the same preparations. The effect is assured if this is done in the presence of friends and relatives who came to dinner.
After all, the operation is simple and only takes a few minutes. Nothing to do with the caramelization obtained with the grill in the oven: it’s another matter entirely.
Although it is the most common, this is not the only possible use of the cooking torch. For example, it can be used to prepare meringues and marshmallows or to heat the indigestible skin that covers peppers or tomatoes, eliminating it easily and professionally. In addition, many use it to melt the cheeses on the gratin, and even in these cases, the effect is different than that of the common grill.
Furthermore, you can use it to roast vegetables and make meat and bacon more crunchy. Since it is a real (small) blowtorch, its use is not necessarily limited to the kitchen but can also extend to the garage and various hobbyist jobs.
Some particularly efficient models have a small window where you can see the remaining gas level. Those of a more professional type, which have a slightly higher price, have two flames and not just one: in this way, all operations will be completed in half the time.
Operation
Regardless of their use, the cooking torches on the market have the same function. All are fueled with butane gas and the one used to load lighters. For safety reasons, no package also contains the relative canister, which must be purchased separately, for example, in tobacconists.
Once the cooking torch is loaded, all that needs to be done is to rotate the wheel on the back to release the gas and press the power button; most likely, it will be necessary to press several times in the beginning to start the flame, but this is not an inconvenience. When the gas has entered the circulation, a single blow will suffice.
The best brand cooking torches can adjust the power to dose the flame according to different needs more effectively. It is a dangerous kitchen utensil because it develops very high temperatures – children must stay away from it – but the operation remains very simple for everyone, even those who do not feel like a chef.
Safety
Compare prices and services, but before choosing the right cooking torch, check that it has a safety device. It is a locking/unlocking lever, a little tricky, but very important because it prevents unwanted and accidental ignition.
Many cooking torches have a tab that serves to repair the hand. Still, if these precautions are insufficient, you could consider buying a more professional burner with a second block stabilizing the flame to keep it under control more effectively.
How to use a cooking torch
The cooking torch, or torch, is one of those accessories that not everyone has at home but should not be missing from international pastry lovers.
We suggest using this article, and you will see that caramelizing the Catalan cream or creme brulèe will be simpler than you can imagine.
Read the instructions before using the tool.
The first indication we can (and must) give you is to read the instruction manual before you start using the small flashlight. Next, recall that it is necessary to resort to gas for this article’s operation, a flammable substance that must always handle with care.
The information provided by the manufacturer will explain what precautions to take for correct use, and who knows, maybe they will also reveal some useful tricks.
Refill the cooking torch with gas.
Generally, torches work thanks to butane gas, although they can sometimes find propane. Before using these tools, you must check that they are full of this substance, which does not happen when it comes to first use, and the reason is soon explained: for safety reasons, the cooking torch is sold unloaded and without the gas canister for charging. Refueling is not difficult, especially if you have already refilled a lighter.
At the bottom of the culinary torch, you will find a hole (i.e., the gas valve), insert the nozzle of the gas canister, and with light pressure, you will feel that the substance will fill the torch. Most cooking torches have a small window to monitor the gas level. After charging, please wait a few minutes before using the tool to stabilize.
Remove the security lock.
It is easy to imagine that these devices have an ignition lock to prevent them from starting when we don’t need them, causing damage. This safety is generally located on the back of the caramel torch and comprises a button to press or a lever to turn. Depending on the model, you will see that the user manual will clarify your ideas well.
After releasing the safety, hold the trigger for ignition until you see the flame. Some models are equipped with a function that provides a second lock to stabilize the flame; thus, keeping it under control and further protecting the hand will be easier. Usually, this button is located on the side of the tool. To end, use this mode active, turn this switch OFF, and the device will turn off.
Adjust the flame
Most cooking torches have an adjustable flame, as not all foods need a mighty flame. When you compare different models, do not neglect this before proceeding with the purchase. All you have to do is turn the knob clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the flame’s power.
The Best Cooking Torch for Your Kitchen
Now, look at what, according to consumer satisfaction, are the best cooking torches. Compare our buying advice and find the most convenient offers on the market by clicking on the suggested links.
In a short time, you could find the product you are looking for without further research.
- ►Safe and Durable: The safety lock prevents accidental ignition. A broad base helps to...
- ►Refillable and Easy to Operate: Refill the kitchen torch with any brand of butane....
- ►Great Versatile Gift: The crème brûlée torch is ideal for caramelizing sugar atop...
- Versatile & Portable Torch---This versatile propane torch can be used as a kitchen torch,...
- Powerful Cooking Torch---The highest temperature of this propane cooking torch can reachs...
- Adjustable Propane Torch---Easy to operate. One-hand operation design make this culinary...
- ❀Safe&Sturdy Creme Brulee Torch: The safety lock could prevent accidental ignition. Also...
- ❀Refillable & Portable: This butane torch lighter can be refilled after running out of...
- ❀VERSATILE: You can easily control the flame temperature according to your needs (Max...
- [Portable Torch Lighter Gun] ravs cooking torch baking tools are made of quality metal...
- [ Dual Flame Torch Lighter ] The butane torch gun has a precise flame that can heat items...
- [Multi-purpose Butane Torch Lighters ] The handheld torch is suitable for different...
- Great Gift and Versatile: Ideal for caramelizing sugar atop creme brulee, glazing a baked...
- Professional Culinary Torch, Sondiko Brand: Safe and Durable - With safety lock prevents...
- Adjustable Flame and Continuously Flame Mode: Simple trigger-style ignition allows for...
- Note: FOR SAFE SHIPPING BUTANE GAS ISN’T INCLUDED
- [ PROFESSIONAL GRADE ] Perfect for a professional chef or avid home bakers, our torch...
- [ ADJUSTABLE FLAME AND REFILLABLE ] Our mini blowtorch features a gas flow regulator dial...
- Safe and reliable - Our safety lock will prevent accidental ignition and the handle is...
- Adjustable flame - Control the size of the flame with our adjuster switch on the side and...
- Multi-use - Apart from culinary applications, our butane torch lighter can be used for...
- Note: TANK AND PROPANE ADAPTER ISN’T INCLUDED
- Peace of Mind Usage: If you are not happy with your food torch for any reason please...
- Safety First, Innovation Always: Our charcoal torch is designed with an extended angled...
- ►100% UNCONDITIONAL 1 YEAR WARRANTY – If you're not happy with your Sear Pro propane...
- ►GREAT GIFT & VERSATILE – Voted #1 cooking torch of 2023. The original SearPro torch...
- 🚑USA OWNED COMPANY BY A FIRST RESPONDER – This compact hand-held torch has the most...
- Effortless One-Handed Operation: With the flame regulator and flame lock button easily in...
- Easy-to-Read Fuel Gauge: Equipped with a transparent fuel gauge on the bottom, manage your...
- Fits All Brands of Small Butane Tanks: Don't know what butane gas tank to buy? No worries!...
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