One of these long-handled instruments was the salamander, a utensil named after a mythical dragon that was supposed to be able to withstand great heat. It consisted of an elongated handle with a cast-iron paddle-shaped head. The head of the salamander was held in the fire until the iron glowed red hot, then maneuverd over a dish of food—mostly pastries, sugary creams, or dishes topped with cheese—to broil
