Help a wimp!

[Cetti]

I've bought a cook's blow torch thinking it would be a big help with puds and cheesy topped meals, but it's still in the box as I have visions of flames shooting out and devouring my kitchen. Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[treaclefight]

cetti i promise you that after one use you will think its a silly and completely inadequate gadget, they're not at all scary and you will not set fire to the kitchen, it will run out of gas after 5 minutes and you'll bung whatever it was under the grill and burn yourself doing that. have a go :-D

[Cetti]

To give you some idea of my state of mind treacle, did you notice I posted under History & Myths? I had to get our Ed to help me out - again!

I will gather all my boldness and practice on a tomato first I think out in the garden.LOL!!!

[treaclefight]

i hadnt noticed that at all, gives you some idea of my state of mind too, i dont want to scare you, but if its windy out, the burner might behave a bit eratically, much better indoors, and your idea of testing on non-flammable foodstuffs is a good start....i promise you it will run out of gas before you could light a candle let alone your kitchen.

[Cetti]

Oh treacle - I've just given myself stars, what's going on inside my brain today? At least I'm laughing so it can't be too bad!!

[brawburd]

I used to be the same using a pressure cooker Cetti! Once that steam started to come out I was completely sure that the house would blow up. I would stand outside the kitchen door, daring to go near it! Treaclefight is SO right about the blow torch - you aint going to be welding a ship, so no worries about the power - just don't be wearing a nylon nightie!

[FTVS]

I am huge wimp about chip pans and always have a damp tea towel to hand just in case! Maybe you would be reassured if you did the same... plus welders goggles and asbestos gloves!

[Cetti]

Thank you brawburd and FTVS for your suggestions - good to know I'm not alone. I had visions of myself making a sophisticated entrance clutching a perfect brulee - but I don't think I'm quite ready for that yet!! Step 1. Locate husband's industrial goggles......

[Gef]

You're all wimps ;-) I have a Lakeland thingy and it's great for the old brulees, setting the Xmas pud alight and even lighting candles when you can't find the matches!

[brawburd]

hey gef, yer neighbours must think you're a circus flamethrower!!

[Anyeeta]

Aww! That's so sweet! Basically Cetti, all you need to do is set the flame on low and using a lighter or match, gently heat the blowtorch up or down according to what you need to do. In addition to melting cheese etc. you can also brulee the top of desserts and caramelise them also. You just have to get over your initial fear. Hope this helps! x

[Cetti]

A wimp no longer - I've just charred a tomato!! A great big hug to you all for your encouragement and help. :-))