Description
Japanese Charcoal
Binchotan: The Gold Standard of Japanese Charcoal
Binchotan is a premium, high-quality activated charcoal from Japan’s Kishu region. Since the Edo period, artisans have crafted this traditional Japanese charcoal by burning oak branches at extremely high temperatures for days before rapidly cooling them. The result is a dense, hard charcoal that makes a unique metallic sound when pieces strike together.
Key Features and Benefits of Binchotan
People celebrate Binchotan for its versatility and exceptional properties. They often call it “white charcoal” because of its clean-burning nature and the white powder that coats it during production.
Grilling Perfection
Binchotan, especially Kishu Binchotan, is the charcoal of choice for Yakitori restaurants and professional chefs. It provides a long, steady burn with no smoke or odor, so your food’s pure flavor stays intact. As fats and oils from your meat drip onto the charcoal, they create a delicious, savory smoke that enhances the grilling experience.
Water and Air Purification
Known as the highest quality activated charcoal, Binchotan effectively purifies tap water by absorbing chemicals and chlorine. Simply add a piece to your water pitcher for a cleaner, better-tasting drink. You can also place Binchotan pieces around your home to naturally absorb moisture and eliminate unpleasant odors. Its porous structure captures toxins and refreshes the air.
Health and Wellness
Add Binchotan to a hot bath to enhance blood circulation. People also use the charcoal in skincare to draw out impurities and toxins from the skin.
Garden and Soil Health
Crush Binchotan and mix it into your garden soil to stimulate healthy plant growth. Many people believe that Binchotan can also help balance the environment in your home by deflecting negative ions.
Using and Reusing Binchotan for Barbecuing
Binchotan charcoal burns significantly longer than ordinary black or lump charcoal. To get the most use out of your purchase, follow these steps:
Lighting and Burning
Use Binchotan in a well-ventilated area or outdoors. It can be challenging to light, but once it’s burning, it provides a consistent, intense heat source.
Extinguishing for Reuse
Unlike regular charcoal, you can reuse Binchotan. To extinguish it, place the pieces in a covered metal container (like a pot) to deplete the oxygen. Alternatively, dip each piece in cold water for 30 seconds and let it dry completely before storing.
Why Chefs Choose Binchotan
The secret to Binchotan’s superior performance lies in its ability to emit Far Infrared Rays (FIR). FIR is a form of electromagnetic wave that food easily absorbs, which allows it to cook evenly from the inside out. This results in perfectly cooked food with an unmatched aroma and flavor.
Choosing Authentic Binchotan
Be aware that much of the Binchotan sold today, even in Japan, other countries like Malaysia or Vietnam may produce, and people sometimes mix it with domestically made products. For the highest quality and an authentic experience, look for reputable suppliers of genuine Kishu Binchotan.