Tips & Techniques > Flambéing Safety Note

FLAMBÉING SAFETY NOTE:

When deglazing with spirits that have a high alcohol content, such as brandy, they should never be added directly from the bottle. The flame from the pan can enter the bottle and cause the bottle to explode. For safety reasons, the alcohol should be added to the pan away from the heat source or with the flamE off. Once the alcohol has been added to the pan, MAKE SURE TO STAND BACK before igniting the alcohol, as the flame will always be higher than you think.

Once the alcohol has been added, turn the heat to high and carefully tilt the pan a bit to ignite the alcohol. A gas lighter can also be used to do this (refer to the drill down: Flambé with Electric Burner.

For fire safety reasons, do not attempt to do this in small kitchens. Have a fire extinguisher and a lid handy to cover the flame, if needed. Take precautions and be safe. Remember, you are working with fire!