"Could I skip the expensive kitchen torch and get mine from the hardware store?"

Asked by CannyYarnCap 24 months ago

Details:

I know kitchen torches use butane, but is there a reason not to use an ordinary propane torch? Does it make the creme brulee taste funny, or something?


0
 Forward to friends
 Discuss this question (2 comments) why can't I answer? Report abuse

av-answers (5)
(2)
 
Show all details, Hide all details

"It works great"
 by PamPerdue on Feb 07 2008 (24 months ago)
 Best Answer
Official Rating

I use the same torch to install plumbing and make creme brulee.  The operative end never touches anything that might transfer germs, and besides it's FAR too hot for germs to survive.  There's no chemical taste at all; it all combusts (and what doesn't combust evaporates instantly).

The propane torch from the hardware store is a little less convenient to use; it doesn't fit as easily in your hand.  If you were a chef doing it all day every day you might want a kitchen torch anyway, but you're only making the occasional brulee so it's just fine.

It's also adjustable, so you'll need to fiddle with it to learn what setting is most effective.  I like a rather low, close, blue flame because the leaner settings can blow the sugar around before it melts.

The propane burns a tiny bit hotter than the butane, which is an advantage, but you need to be ready for that.

It's a lot cheaper, and I think it's pretty cool to bring out the same torch to use IN the kitchen and ON the kitchen (plumbing).
Like this Answer?

"ABSOLUTELY"
 by newfietom on Feb 07 2008 (24 months ago)
Official Rating

The propane flame won't make your brulee taste any different. It is HOTTER though than butane so you'll have to be a bit more careful not to burn things. I purchased a "fancy" kitchen torch a couple years ago. I HATED filling it with those cans of butane. It seemed VERY unsafe and didn't hold very much fuel.

 

It ran out once -- right in the middle of torching brulees for dessert -- so I hurriedly filled it and attempted to use it immediately. After I extinguished my hand (didn't burn me at all, just a burning hand like in the movies) and the torch, I decided that was the end of that torch in the kitchen. Now I only use it to light cigars.

 

Have fun, be careful and torch away.....

 

Bon Appetit!
Like this Answer?

"Propane works great for creme brulee! (and you can sweat pipes with it as well)"
 by unixcorn on Feb 07 2008 (24 months ago)
Official Rating

I debated whether or not to get one of the "cute" kitchen torches but decided on a regular propane torch.  I don't keep it in the kitchen so it doesn't take up space there (it is quite happy in the basement shop).  Works great in the kitchen, very easy to swap tanks, and, unlike the ones I saw as a girl, comes with an auto igniter!

 

I have used mine a number of times for cooking (haven't needed to solder anything recently) and I am quite pleased.  It IS heavier than one of the kitchen ones but so much as to bother me (5' 1" and muscles to match)

 

Besides, people look so "WOW" at you when you pull it out! <grin>
Like this Answer?

"According to the Food Network’s Alton Brown a torch is a torch."
 by KingofRandomCrap on Feb 07 2008 (24 months ago)
Official Rating

I have never tried it myself because with either one of them I would burn the house down but I have seen both Alton Brown and Paula Deen use regular old propane torches. If it works for them it ought to work for the rest of us.
Like this Answer?

"Sure"
 by pfzlsk on Feb 07 2008 (24 months ago)
Official Rating

I have seen TV chefs using standard propane torches in preparing Creme Brulee.
Like this Answer?




Ask a question of your own:
 

Latest post on this question's discussion board:

YOu can get these little refillable pensize butane touches that I think would work fine at harbor freight for just a couple dollars.
Read more & discuss (2 comments)
 
We are in beta! Give us feedback
Ask a Question | Home | FAQ | Blog | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Good Neighbor Policy | Jobs | Site Map | About Us
Copyright © 2010 Askville ·