What Is A Culinary Torch?

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A culinary torch is a small, handheld butane torch typically used to caramelize crème brûlée, to brown baked meringues, roast small peppers, or even to melt cheese. Used anywhere a quick toast is needed or melt, they are sometimes called chef’s torches or cooking torches. Culinary torches are sometimes called mini kitchen torches.

You may have seen these mini butane torches being used by other professionals, a smaller version of the tool commonly called a blowtorch. They are used for plumbing, soldering, lab work, jewelry making, or any other situation where a torch is needed but a large gas torch is too big and unwieldy, or simply undesirable.

Culinary torch, then, is a misnomer as they are used for much more than just cooking. They are commonly called mini-butane torches, brazing torches, and soldering torches. Due to their ease of use and multiple applications, they have become a popular addition to the chef’s arsenal.

Due to this popularity, many manufacturers market mini torches to home or professional cooks. The culinary torches are typically around half the price of traditional products. They operate on the same principles and have similar safety features to traditional models and produce a similar level of heat, up to 2300 degrees F.

For constant use, these models may not last as long as those marketed to professionals, but for the home cook and occasional use, they are a good choice. They can even be used to put a sear on a steak.

Keep in mind that a culinary torch will not come filled with butane, although some units might have a very small amount of fuel left over from testing the appliance, so you must purchase a canister of butane separately.

Sondiko Butane Torch S400, Refillable Kitchen Lighter, Fit All Butane Tanks Blow Torch with Safety Lock and Adjustable Flame for Desserts, Creme Brulee, and Baking—Butane Gas Is Not Included

►Safe and Durable: The safety lock prevents accidental ignition. A broad base helps to prevent it from falling over. Long angled nozzle and burn-free finger guard keep your hand safely away from the flame. We crafted our culinary torch out of professional-grade materials, providing you with a safe and easy-to-use tool.

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The gas will run out quickly, so if you use your torch often you must have extra fuel on hand. The filling process can be daunting so read the instructions carefully before trying to refill the torch. A simpler solution, instead of a torch unit, is a high-output torch-head for fitting on butane canisters, such as the Iwatani PRO2 Culinary Butane Torch. When the can is empty, the torch head is easily removed and placed onto a new can.

Iwatani top quality butane torch is backed by a 1-year manufacturer (butane not included)
Easy to use butane torch - adjustable flame size and shape to concentrate the flame as much or as little as you need, one touch piezo ignition, and stabilizing plate for your safety
Kitchen Torch perfect for roasting and charring vegetables, glazing ham, browning and crisping toppings, melting cheese and of course producing the sugary crust on crème Brulee, meringues and pastries
Sous vide Torch that adds complex flavors, and wonderful texture to perfectly finish off your steaks, fish, chicken and vegetables in just a few minutes
Portable Torch that’s perfect for camping, at home, professional, culinary school, and BBQ’s just twist and it locks in place