Sitting by a crackling fire, beverage in hand, as the sumptuous smoky scents of a charcoal grill waft through the thick air… This is spring and with it come the joys of outdoor living and cooking.
It is the time to slow down, take advantage of long days, and light up the barbie.
Blacksmith Tubo Kueper says there has been a resurgence in the popularity of cooking with charcoal.
He and his son Tyler do custom metalwork at their home-based business near Lisle, Iron Butterfly Blacksmithing. Lately, they have seen an increase in interest in specialized charcoal grills such as spaduch barbecues – Italian style kebab grills that are long and narrow – and cowboy grills – a large round grill with a rotating cooking surface.
Charcoal offers the outdoor cook, an even heat and unique flavour. Looking for even more flavour? Try using a smoker.
Iron fire teepees are also becoming quite popular as a backyard sitting area focal piece and a practical way of containing bonfires. The Kuepers can make just about anything one might want when it comes to metal.
For those who aren’t ready to fully commit, Iron Butterfly also rents out the teepees, grills and smokers, anything that will enhance a backyard soirée.
Because their creations are handmade, everything is one-of-a-kind and built to last for generations.
“People are getting wise with their money, buying quality,” said Tubo.
He learned the art of metalworking from his father, who had an auto body shop in Alliston. In 1960, he purchased the family farm, which used to produce tobacco, but is now buzzing with creativity.
The metal work is done on site using a coal fired and propane forge and welders, sometimes incorporating wood.
Their furniture is made incorporating unique cuts of wood, showing off its natural character. Large slabs of hardwood are transformed into kitchen cutting blocks or coffee tables with metal casters.
In addition to taking the indoors outside, people are also bringing the outdoors in, incorporating wrought iron and other rustic elements into the home. The Kuepers have seen a demand for barn door trolleys as people are incorporating sliding barn doors to home interiors.
Visit www.ironbutterfly.ca.