Having a thermometer in your kitchen is necessary if you have a tongue for new tastes and a mastermind to bring those tastes to life. While most of our ovens come with their default thermometers, it’s necessary that you get hands on an external thermometer - not only can you place them in your ovens but you may also use them for when you’re grilling or cooking your meat at a low flame. Plus, you may look up thousands of dishes on the internet and bring them to life if you’ve got the perfect temperature gauge by your side. Now that we’ve hooked you up with some quality thermometers, here’s a section that’ll shed light on all the factors that make the bests stand out from the rest. Let’s get started!
Do I Need an Oven Thermometer?
Yes, a thousand times yes! Why? Because they make life easier and cooking better! Whether you are a novice in the kitchen or a polished professional, there is no reason an oven thermometer isn't going to cause ease for your cooking and baking schedules. The thing about ovens is that their thermostats seem to get damaged pretty fast. Hence the need for an oven thermometer. If your temperature isn’t working as it should, chances are, your cake will not rise as it should, your meat will remain underdone, and your dinner party will most likely be ruined. You may use external oven thermometers to avoid this - they will help you in gauging just the right temperature setting. You won’t have to opt for trial and error with the time and temperature. You will know exactly when to put in the puff pastries when they turn golden and when is the right time to take them out. The best part is that there will be no fear of burning the house down because you will have a know-how of the inside temperatures, right in front of you!
Choosing a Reliable Oven Thermometer - What You Need to Know
When purchasing an oven thermometer, there are certain things that you need to keep in mind for a seamless purchase. The most important ones include the following:
Accuracy
There is no point of having an oven thermometer that does not show the correct readings, is there? This is why the first most important thing you need to look out for is the accuracy of readings. You can test the thermometer once it arrives by checking it against the boiling point of water. Another way to get an accurate thermometer is by reading all the reviews before you make your purchase.
Range
Another very important thing is the range of temperature that the thermometer is going to tolerate. Most thermometers offer temperatures ranging from 100 degrees Fahrenheit to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. So if you need higher temperatures, make sure to buy accordingly. For your personal convenience and to avoid the drudgery of converting Celsius into Fahrenheit and vice versa - make sure you get a thermometer that has dials for both units!
Placement
For placements, there are only two options, a self-stand or hanging the thermometer on the rack. Most thermometers come with an option to hang. If you are someone who prefers keeping the device close to your food for the most accurate readings, then you will need to purchase a thermometer that doesn't need any support. There is also a variety that needs to be hung outside the grill or oven, so make sure you’re getting your hands on the right product.
Dial face
The dial face is where you can read the temperature. If the dial face is too small and the numbers placed too close together, you cannot tell what the readings are without opening the oven and taking the thermometer out. This will not only disrupt the cooking time but may also create a minor disaster in your baking plans. It is best to opt for a large dial thermometer with numbers clearly written on it for better readability. Having color-coded numbers is even better.
