What's a Convection Oven and Why Should You Want One?
A convection oven is an oven that has a fan and exhaust system to circulate hot air around the food. This method of cooking allows for faster, more even cooking compared to a conventional oven.
Here are the key features of a convection oven:
- Fan and Exhaust System: The fan circulates hot air around the food, and the exhaust system vents it out. This ensures that the temperature is consistent throughout the oven.
- Even Cooking: Because the hot air is constantly moving, convection ovens reduce the chances of hot spots and ensure that food cooks evenly.
- Faster Cooking: The continuous circulation of hot air can speed up the cooking process. Recipes often need to be adjusted for time and temperature when using a convection oven.
- Crispier Results: The dry, hot air is excellent for roasting meats and vegetables, producing a crispy exterior.
- Versatility: Convection ovens can be used for baking, roasting, toasting, and even dehydrating food. Some convection ovens offer the option to turn off the fan and use it as a conventional oven, giving users flexibility depending on what they are cooking.
5 Factors to Consider When Buying a Convection Oven
If you’re ready to invest in a new convection oven, this buying guide is a must-read for you. This type of kitchen appliance is one you should heavily research prior to purchasing. That’s because there are countless options on the market, all of which come with their own set of pros and cons. Check out the following factors to learn what you should look at when shopping for convection ovens.
Size and capacity
Don't just glance at the size and capacity of a convection oven. Instead, thoroughly explore its shape and dimensions. Make sure you ascertain how much space you have in your kitchen, and from there, compare that information with the amount of space the convection oven takes up. Check the measurements of your kitchen space to ensure the oven isn’t too big for your counters.
Energy efficiency
All convection ovens cook food faster than most other kitchen appliances, but is the model you’re looking at energy-efficient? Take a look at the energy rating of the prospective oven. High efficiency isn't only beneficial for the environment but it also means your energy bills will cost less. Look for models with A+++ — or triple-A — ratings. Some convection ovens are specifically equipped with economical modes that allow you to actively optimize your oven’s energy usage.
Features and functions
Don't just look at the features of a convection oven — explore them! Modern-day convection ovens come with a wide range of features. From digital controls and programmable timers to self-cleaning capabilities and pre-set cooking modes, the functionality of a convection oven can greatly enhance your cooking endeavors. While these additional features might inflate the total price of the convection oven, they can also make your life significantly easier. It’s a win-win!
Ease of cleaning
Convection ovens are known for easily getting greasy and grubby, so you'll want to look for models that are easy to clean. Features like removable doors or self-cleaning functions are best. Some models even have their own steam-cleaning option, which uses heat and water to dissolve food residue left behind in your oven. The goal is an oven with a simplified cleaning process, making maintenance a lot easier for you.
Price and warranty
Don't just buy an oven… invest in one! You should take your purchase seriously because convection ovens can last a long time when you purchase a well-made one. That said, you don’t have to spend a fortune to afford a model that won’t let you down. When analyzing the price point of convection ovens, consider the features and overall durability of the oven. Make sure it performs well, too. Take the time to compare prices, but don't compromise when it comes to the convection oven’s warranty. A good warranty can provide you with peace of mind while saving you money in the long run.
