How to Safely Light Binchotan Charcoal
Binchotan charcoal provides high, consistent heat, but it is difficult to light and requires careful handling. Safety risks arise from two main areas: improper storage and improper lighting.
Binchotan is highly absorbent. If stored outdoors or in a damp area, it absorbs moisture, which causes it to "pop" or spark dangerously during the lighting process. This guide details the safest method to get through that lighting phase: using a charcoal chimney.
⚠️ Important: Safety First
Lighting Binchotan involves high heat and requires your full attention. Handle it as you would any live fire: with care.
Key Safety Warnings
- Store Dry: Binchotan absorbs moisture, causing it to "pop" dangerously when lit. Always store it indoors in a dry area, never outdoors. This is critical in humid climates (e.g., QLD, NSW).
- Never Light Indoors: Light outdoors only. Burning charcoal releases lethal, odourless carbon monoxide (CO).
- Use a Chimney with Mesh: A chimney with a mesh top safely contains embers and is the best way to guard against "popping".
- Use Protective Gear: Always wear heat-resistant gloves when handling hot equipment.
- Maintain a Safe Area: Keep children, pets, and bystanders away. Never leave a lit fire unattended.
- Use a Non-Flammable Surface: Set up on concrete or bricks, far from combustible materials.
Why You Should Always Use a Chimney
A vertical charcoal chimney is the safest and most effective method to light Binchotan. Its design concentrates heat for efficient lighting and provides containment. Covering the top with a mesh screen blocks potential sparks or "popping" embers, which occur if the charcoal has absorbed moisture.
This method allows you to light the firelighters at the base and maintain a safe distance, making it the most secure approach.
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 extra for the chimney top)
- Long Barbeque Tongs
- Heat-Resistant Gloves (Oven Mitts)
- Charcoal Extinguishing Pot
- A stable, non-flammable surface (e.g., concrete, bricks, wooden board for the Konro)
Step-by-Step Lighting Procedure
Binchotan cannot be lit quickly. Expect this process to take 30 to 45 minutes. Do not rush; slow, steady heating is essential to activate the charcoal properly.
- Prepare Your Grill: Place the Konro grill on a stable, heat-resistant surface (like a wooden board) and set a grill mesh on top.
- Set Up the Chimney: Place the chimney on a separate, stable, non-flammable surface (e.g., concrete or bricks) at a safe distance.
- Add Firelighters: Place 6-8 natural firelighters in the chimney's bottom compartment.
- Load the Charcoal: Arrange the Binchotan pieces vertically in the chimney.
- Cover and Light: Place an extra mesh screen on the chimney top to contain embers. Light the firelighters from the bottom vents.
- Wait and Observe: Let the chimney burn for 15-20 minutes.
- Manage the Heat: After 15-20 minutes, check the charcoal. If the firelighters have burned out and the charcoal is not glowing, carefully add new firelighters or use tongs to turn the charcoal pieces.
- Check for Readiness: The charcoal is ready when it glows bright red and is covered in white ash. This process takes 30-45 minutes.
- Transfer to Grill: Wearing heat-resistant gloves, lift the chimney and pour the glowing charcoal into the Konro grill. Once the charcoal is fully lit, any moisture is gone and the risk of "popping" has passed. Spread the charcoal in an even layer. Do not stack it too high.
Video Demonstration
Watch the video tutorial below. Note: While the chef does not use a top mesh in the video, we strongly recommend you always use a mesh screen for safety.
How to Extinguish Binchotan for Reuse
Binchotan can be extinguished and reused. The correct method is to deprive the charcoal of oxygen.
WARNING: NEVER use water to extinguish Binchotan. It causes the charcoal to absorb moisture, making it "pop" dangerously on its next use.
Recommended Method: Extinguishing Pot
The safest way is to use a donabe clay extinguisher.
- Wearing heat-resistant gloves, use long tongs to move the hot charcoal from the grill to the pot.
- Place the ceramic lid on the pot.
- The fire will go out, preserving the charcoal for future use.
Alternative Method: 2-in-1 Chimney
You can transfer the charcoal back into our starter and extinguishing chimney and cover both ends. This process takes longer as the chimney is not a perfect insulator.
About the Author
Roger Young, a professional musician with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and an enthusiastic chef, is the mastermind behind this recipe. His unique fusion of culinary art and music is showcased on his 'fiddle and food' channel. Collaborating with My Cookware®, Roger brings to life exceptional recipes enhanced by his delightful tunes.
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