How to Safely Light Binchotan Charcoal
Binchotan charcoal delivers high, consistent heat, but it requires careful handling during storage and ignition. As a natural charcoal, Binchotan behaves differently from standard briquettes. Safety risks mainly arise from moisture absorption and improper lighting methods.
Binchotan is highly absorbent by nature. If it absorbs moisture from humid air or damp storage conditions, it may produce popping sounds, sparks, or small charcoal fragments during ignition. These reactions are a natural and well-known characteristic of Binchotan and do not indicate a product fault.
This guide explains the safest and most controlled way to manage the lighting phase, with a strong recommendation to use a charcoal chimney.
⚠️ Important: Safety First
Lighting Binchotan involves live fire and high temperatures. Always handle it with care and full attention, as you would any open flame.
Key Safety Warnings
- Store Completely Dry: Binchotan naturally absorbs moisture. Damp charcoal may pop, spark, or release small debris during ignition. Always store indoors in a dry, sealed environment. This is especially important in humid regions (e.g. QLD, NSW).
- Outdoor Use Only: Never light Binchotan indoors or in enclosed spaces. Burning charcoal releases carbon monoxide, which is odourless and extremely dangerous.
- Use a Chimney with Mesh: A charcoal chimney fitted with a mesh screen helps contain sparks and fragments during ignition and is the safest recommended method.
- Wear Protective Equipment: Always use heat-resistant gloves and long tongs when handling hot charcoal or equipment.
- Maintain a Clear Safety Zone: Keep children, pets, and bystanders well away. Never leave burning charcoal unattended.
- Use a Non-Flammable Surface: Set up on concrete or bricks, well away from flammable materials.
Why a Charcoal Chimney Is Strongly Recommended
A vertical charcoal chimney provides the safest and most controlled way to light Binchotan. Its design concentrates heat for efficient ignition while containing the charcoal during the most reactive phase.
Using a mesh screen over the chimney top significantly reduces the risk of sparks or debris escaping, particularly if the charcoal has absorbed residual moisture.
What You Will Need
- Binchotan Japanese White Charcoal
- Charcoal Chimney Starter
- Natural Firelighters (approx. 6–8 cubes)
- Konro (Hibachi) Grill
- Grill Mesh (one for the grill, one for the chimney top)
- Long Barbecue Tongs
- Heat-resistant gloves or oven mitts
- Charcoal Extinguishing Pot
- A stable, non-flammable surface (e.g. concrete or bricks)
Step-by-Step Lighting Procedure
Binchotan requires slow, steady heating. Allow 30–45 minutes and do not rush the process.
- Prepare the Grill: Place the Konro grill on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Fit a grill mesh on top.
- Position the Chimney: Place the chimney separately on concrete or bricks, away from the grill.
- Add Firelighters: Place 6–8 natural firelighters in the chimney base.
- Load the Charcoal: Arrange Binchotan pieces vertically inside the chimney.
- Cover and Light: Place a mesh screen over the chimney top. Light the firelighters from below.
- Observe: Allow the chimney to burn for 15–20 minutes.
- Manage the Heat: If needed, carefully turn charcoal pieces or add firelighters using tongs.
- Check Readiness: The charcoal is ready when glowing red and coated with white ash.
- Transfer to Grill: Wearing gloves, pour the lit charcoal into the Konro grill. Once fully lit, internal moisture has evaporated and the risk of popping has passed.
Video Demonstration
The video below demonstrates the lighting process. While the chef does not use a top mesh, we strongly recommend always using a mesh screen for additional safety.
How to Extinguish Binchotan for Reuse
Binchotan can be extinguished and reused by removing oxygen.
WARNING: Never use water to extinguish Binchotan. Water causes moisture absorption and increases the risk of popping and sparking during future use.
Recommended Method: Extinguishing Pot
Use a donabe charcoal extinguisher.
- Using gloves and long tongs, transfer hot charcoal into the pot.
- Close the ceramic lid firmly.
- The fire will extinguish naturally, preserving the charcoal.
Alternative Method: 2-in-1 Chimney
Charcoal may also be returned to the chimney and sealed at both ends. This method takes longer and offers less insulation than a donabe pot.
About the Author
Roger Young, a professional musician with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and an enthusiastic chef, shares his passion for cooking and music on Fiddle & Food. In collaboration with My Cookware Australia®, he brings practical techniques and thoughtful cooking guidance to life.