The plancha brazier is gradually replacing the barbecue in our gardens and on our terraces.
What is a plancha brazier?
A plancha brazier is an outdoor cooking appliance that combines two elements: a brazier, which is a fire pit for the fire, and a plancha, which is a hob. The brazier is used to produce heat thanks to a wood, charcoal or sometimes gas fire, while the plancha, placed above this hearth, allows you to cook food as on a hot plate, but with a more diffuse heat.
This type of equipment is particularly popular for outdoor barbecues, as it allows you to sear and grill meat, fish, vegetables and other foods while offering even and tasty cooking. It is often used for convivial meals in the open air, such as dinners with friends or family.
What is the best steel for plancha brazier?
The best steel for a plancha brazier should combine heat resistance, durability and ease of maintenance.
Carbon steel is ideal for the plancha of the barbecue brazier: Carbon steel
•Benefits:
– Excellent Heat Conduction: It is one of the best materials for high-temperature cooking, as it heats up quickly and evenly. It can also offer more intense heat and stays warm longer than stainless steel.
– Durability: Although it is more susceptible to rust, proper maintenance (such as oiling after each use) can help extend its life. Carbon steel also takes on a “patina” over time, which can give a special look to the plancha.
– Improved cooking taste: Some users prefer carbon steel because it can improve the taste of cooking, especially through the formation of a layer of “patina” (i.e. a layer of charred oil) that acts as a non-stick surface.
•Disadvantages:
– Rust sensitivity: Carbon steel rusts more easily than stainless steel, so it requires regular maintenance (oil, drying after each use).
– More demanding maintenance: Regular maintenance to prevent oxidation is necessary to preserve the quality of the cooking surface.
Corten steel or painted for a plancha brazier?
Corten steel is an excellent choice for a plancha brazier, and it has several advantages that make it particularly suitable for outdoor use.
Here’s why Corten steel could be considered one of the best materials for a plancha brazier:
– What is Corten steel? Corten steel is an alloy steel that develops a patina (rust color) when exposed to the elements. This patina is actually a protective layer of iron oxide, which protects the metal from corrosion by forming a kind of natural shield. It is a steel commonly used for outdoor applications, including architecture, sculptures, and garden equipment including braziers.
– Advantages of Corten steel for a plancha brazier:
– Corrosion resistance : Corten steel is extremely resistant to rust thanks to its protective oxide layer. Unlike carbon steel, which can rust quickly, Corten steel develops a patina that insulates it from moisture, wind and rain. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor use, especially for a plancha brazier that will be exposed to the elements.
– Unique aesthetics: One of the major strengths of Corten steel is its visual appearance. When exposed to air and the elements, it forms a layer of rust that is a very aesthetically pleasing reddish-orange color. This patina gives the brazier a distinctive, “distressed” look that can blend perfectly with the outdoor environment, adding character and warmth to your space.
– Durability and longevity : Corten steel is very robust and long-lasting. It is resistant to extreme weather conditions, high heat, and even prolonged exposure to fire. This resistance allows the Corten steel plancha brazier to last a long time without degrading quickly, even with frequent use. It can go through the years without losing its effectiveness or aesthetics.
– Minimal maintenance : One of the great advantages of Corten steel is that it requires very little maintenance. Thanks to its natural patina, it is protected against rust. You don’t need to oil it or take any special measures to prevent oxidation, unlike carbon steel or cast iron. It can therefore be used in a more practical way, especially outdoors, without fear that humidity or climatic changes will damage it quickly.
– Eco-friendly : Corten steel is a recycled material, making it an eco-friendly choice. In addition, the layer of rust that forms on the surface does not affect the performance of the brazier and contributes to the durability of the product.
– Disadvantages of Corten steel
– Rough appearance : if you don’t like the rusty look, you should know that the patina of Corten steel may not suit all tastes. However, this is part of its charm for those who appreciate industrial or natural style.
– Cost: Corten steel can be slightly more expensive than stainless steel or carbon due to its properties and durability.
Conclusion
Corten steel is an increasingly popular choice for plancha braziers, especially because of its corrosion resistance, unique aesthetics, and durability. It offers good and low maintenance requirements, making it a very convenient option for outdoor appliances. If you’re looking for a plancha brazier that is both aesthetically pleasing, durable and practical, Corten steel is a great choice, especially if you want a natural finish and a beautiful patina over time.