Resources: Ilsa Cast-Iron Heat Diffuser
Not all stove burners can be turned so far down that stock and braises remain at the lowest bubble, keeping stock clear and braised meat tender and protecting vulnerable terra cotta. To disperse and reduce the heat, for years I’ve used an Ilsa cast-iron heat diffuser made in Italy. The enamel has become chipped in spots, which doesn’t affect the excellent function, but the diameter is only about 18 cm (7 inches), not quite enough for a wide pot on a wide burner. Recently I bought the 21-cm (8¼-inch) model, which has a moderate-size hole in the middle. A certain amount of heat flows up through it, which is apparently essential to the even bubbling throughout. Cast-iron, apart from wear in any enameled surface, has the appeal of being permanent. The smaller Ilsa diffuser costs about $17 from certain US online sources, including Amazon; the larger one costs about $21. ●
By Edward Behr
From issue 97
