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If you've been cooking sous vide for a while, you'll know the last step is the "searing" of the meat. You can do this with a grill, skillet or a sous vide torch.
Today we're going to focus solely on the best sous vide torches to get that nice crust on your final dish.
A sous vide torch will help crisp the outside of a steak, skin of chicken or fish, or any other protein to get that dark, crisp exterior known as the Maillard reaction. Basically, it adds a ton of flavor to your dish!
Sous vide cooking has revolutionized the way we approach the culinary arts, bringing restaurant-quality precision to home kitchens. While sous vide immersion circulators ensure your food is perfectly cooked to the desired temperature, a crucial final step cannot be overlooked – the sear.
Enter the sous vide torch, a culinary tool that combines precision and power to add the perfect sear, char, or finish to your sous vide creations.
In this blog post, we'll explore the top sous vide torches that promise to give your meat (or vegetables, desserts, etc.) the final searing they deserve!
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More Sous Vide Resources
Before we jump right into the torches, you may want to bookmark some of these other sous vide resources to read later:
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What to Look for in a Sous Vide Torch
Choosing a sous vide torch involves considering several factors to ensure that it meets your specific needs and preferences. Here are some key features to look for:
Power Output
A higher power output generally means faster and more efficient searing. Look for torches with power ratings typically measured in watts or BTUs (British Thermal Units).
For sous vide, you want a powerful torch. Small, butane kitchen torches are great for creme brulee, but may not be able to sear that steak.
Fuel Source
Sous vide torches can be powered by various fuels, such as butane, propane, or electricity. Butane torches are popular for their portability, while propane torches are often more powerful.
Some people note that butane can leave a flavor on food which is why I prefer not to use it. Propane only leaves flavor if it doesn't ignite properly (you're seeing more orange flame than blue flame)
Adjustable Flame Control
Look for a torch that allows you to adjust the flame intensity. This feature gives you more control over the searing process, allowing you to achieve the desired results without burning the food.
While not a deal breaker, this can add extra convenience to your torch if you plan on using it for multiple uses.
Ignition System
Choose a torch with a reliable ignition system. Some torches have a piezo-electric ignition that creates a spark without the need for external lighters.
You want it to be easy to light (look for one with a trigger start to make it easy - both Bernzomatics below have them).
Flame Color
The flame on a good quality kitchen torch should burn blue. The bluer the better.
Torches that burn orange mean that the combustion is not working as it should (this is when the "taste" is left on your food) and can cause soot to form. The soot is what gives it that flavor.
Safety Features
Safety is crucial. Look for torches with features like a safety lock, a flame guard, or a child-resistant mechanism to prevent accidental ignition.
Build Quality
Consider the build quality and materials used in the construction of the torch. A durable and well-built torch is likely to last longer and withstand regular use.
Versatility
Some torches come with additional features or attachments, such as interchangeable tips or a searing rack. Consider whether these extras would be useful for your specific cooking needs.
I like to make sure I can use mine for searing meat, as well as more delicate things like bruleeing sugar.
The Best Sous Vide Torches
Bernzomatic TS8000
At the top of our list is the Bernzomatic TS8000, a powerhouse among sous vide torches. Known for its high-intensity flame, adjustable temperature control, and durable build, the TS8000 offers the perfect finishing touch to your sous vide dishes, like this sous vide steak.
Its instant ignition and ergonomic design make it a favorite among both professional chefs and home cooks. It also uses propane, which doesn't leave as much of that gas flavor that butane torches can leave.
Searzall Torch Attachment
For those looking to combine the precision of sous vide cooking with the even searing power of a torch, the Searzall Torch Attachment is a game-changer.
Designed to be used with the Bernzomatic TS8000 or TS4000, the Searzall creates a consistent and broad flame, ensuring an even sear without compromising the texture of your food.
It's perfect to ensure you get an even crust on this sous vide tuna, sous vide leg of lamb or these sous vide turkey legs.
Bernzomatic TS4000
The Bernzomatic TS4000 is just a step down from the TS8000. While not quite as powerful and heavy duty as the TS8000, it is perfectly sufficient for most home cooks.
It also runs on propane so you don't have to worry about leaving gas flavor on your sous vide prime rib or sous vide rack of lamb.
Iwatani PRO2 Culinary Butane Torch
Compact, portable, and efficient, the Iwatani PRO2 Culinary Butane Torch is a versatile choice for sous vide enthusiasts. With its adjustable flame and easy-to-use design, this torch is perfect for precision searing.
The refillable butane canister provides long-lasting power, making it an excellent companion for both indoor and outdoor cooking adventures. It's great used both on proteins like these sous vide scallops, or to caramelize the sugar on this sous vide creme brulee.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are several different kinds of fuel used by torches - MAP-Pro, Butane and propane. MAP-Pro is just an enhanced version of propane, so most people use propane as it is much cheaper.
All 3 fuels will work great, with propane being the best as it is the lowest cost option and burns very hot. MAP-Pro also burns very hot, but is more expensive. And butane is more expensive and does not burn as hot.
When used properly, Butane shouldn't leave a "gas" taste on food. However, if it is used for a long time or used when the flame is not burning hottest (blue flame), it can leave a taste on food.
The best high powered gas torch for sous vide is the Bernzomatic TS8000 with the Searzall attachment. While it's more powerful than what most home cooks need, it provides a great sear very efficiently. It is also easy to use and has safety features built in.
Yes! You can use the same propane that you would use for a gas grill and it is completely safe for food. Use caution any time you are dealing with flames and be sure to read all the instructions before use.
Conclusion
As sous vide cooking continues to gain popularity, the importance of the finishing touch cannot be overstated. The right sous vide torch can transform your dishes, adding a perfect sear, caramelization, or char that enhances both flavor and presentation.
Whether you're a culinary enthusiast or a professional chef, investing in a high-quality sous vide torch is a step towards achieving restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Do you use a sous vide torch? What is your favorite and why? Leave a comment below!
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