How to Choose an Oven That Meets Your Cooking Needs
Over time ovens have evolved in terms of design and performance. For example you can now find ovens that have self-cleaning oven lines.
These lines heat up the interior of the oven, which is beneficial in cleaning. Certain models come with a timer which can be set independent of the cooking function.
History
Since humans have been around we have used fire to keep ourselves warm and to cook food. It wasn't until 1490 that the first known oven constructed specifically for cooking came along, created in France from bricks and featuring the grate, that could be used to place cauldrons made of steel. be placed.
The new oven was a step up over the open flames that were used in a fireplace in which cooking was performed with large metal pots that were hung over. However it was still difficult to regulate the temperature. It would take years of experimentation and refinement before a method was developed for efficiently baking bread or roasting meat that could be eaten without becoming blackened during the process.
Ovens improved over the ages. In the 1800s, large brick hearths were constructed with an oven made of bricks that had the fire pit was placed within, and metal cauldrons hung over for heating. However, it took two decades before the first practical coal oven was invented in 1833. It was then followed by the first gas stoves equipped with top burners and ovens with interiors.
British inventor James Sharp patented the first gas oven that was semi-successful in 1826 and by 1920 they had become a staple kitchen appliance. Electric ovens came out in the 60 years following depending on how quickly electricity was incorporated into homes.
In the US they're referred to as toaster ovens, and in Britain, they're known as hobs. However, the term "oven" is used more broadly to describe any kind of oven that utilizes any heat source that isn't an open fire or a metal cauldron. There are hundreds of types of ovens available in the present. You will find one that can handle whatever you need to, from baking to grilling to steaming.
Whether you're looking for a double wall oven or a traditional wood fired Aga there's a wide choice to suit all tastes and budgets. They are not indestructible and are susceptible to breaking down at any point. This is the reason we are here. We can help you when you require repairs to your oven or replace a piece. Give us a call or send us an email.
Technology
There is a broad range of oven technology available. For instance, many ovens are fan assisted. This is due to the fact that as in addition to the oven element cooking the food, there's an air-flow fan that distributes the hot air around the oven to ensure that the food is cooked evenly. This is especially helpful when baking.
Similarly some ovens are smart which means that they can be controlled remotely through an app. This is especially helpful when you're working or need to cook dinner before you get home from work.
There are also multicooking techniques available which allow you to cook using traditional, microwave and steam in the same oven. You can get professional results faster, like perfectly roasted potatoes or a whole chicken*. It could even allow you cut down on your energy use by up to 50%. This kind of technology is often called a'multicooker however we believe the term 'gourmet oven' is more appropriate!
Energy efficiency
Ovens are an essential part of most UK kitchens and are used on a daily basis for roasting, baking and even making some of our most loved desserts. So when it comes to selecting the right oven, it's essential to select one that can meet all of our cooking requirements while remaining energy efficient too.
Due to the rising cost of electricity, it is more important than ever that you think about the amount your oven will cost you to run. That's why it's a good idea to take a look at the energy efficiency rating which is listed on each product page. Ideally, you want an oven with an A+ or better energy rating that will help you reduce your household's expenses.
In addition to examining the energy efficiency it is also important to consider what other features are available. For instance, if trying to cut down on time spent cleaning the oven, choose models that have self-cleaning capabilities. This means the oven can reach temperatures of 400-500 degrees Celsius and burn off food spills and will eliminate having to clean the oven regularly.
A minute minder is an additional useful feature to look for. It allows you to set a timer for cooking. Some ovens also have smart technology which lets you connect it to an app on your smartphone to manage it remotely, if desired.
According to Uswitch the cost of an electric oven is around 17p an hour. It's therefore crucial to select the right model for your home, so that you can cut your energy bills. Other appliances such as slow cookers, air fryers and microwaves also consume significantly less energy than ovens.
Another way to cut down on energy consumption when cooking is to ensure that your oven is insulated. Install a reflective insulation behind the cooker's hood to reflect heat back into the cavity. This will help to reduce the cost of energy, since it will mean that your oven won't have to work as hard to maintain a consistent temperature.
Cooking options
Depending on the frequency you cook and what recipes you love Your oven could come with various functions to help make it easier to prepare food. Some of these functions include bread proofing that creates an environment warm and controlled that allows dough to rise. Or bottom heat settings to ensure uniformity and a gentle cooking. Some of them also have rapid heat settings that allow you to achieve temperatures quicker which is ideal for those needing to rush.
Certain ovens come with a defrost function that uses low temperatures to slowly melt frozen food items without cooking them, thereby saving time and money. You can also use the Interior Light feature to check on what's cooking. The Reheat function helps keep hot food at lower temperatures, so that they don't get dry or overcooked.
It's evident that an oven is an vital kitchen convenience appliance. But if you want to get the most of it, acquainting yourself with its functions can make it easier to achieve delicious results every time.
For example, if you're making a traditional roast using the Conventional setting is recommended to ensure that it comes out well cooked and crisped. If you plan to grill meat, the Grill mode will yield juicy and flavorful steaks.
Ovens typically come with a selection of built-in appliances like racks, trays, and a telescopic run for shelves. You can find models with additional features, such as warming drawers, small steam oven, or a healthier alternative to conventional baking. These ovens maximize nutrients and eliminate unhealthy additives.
Stand-alone models on the contrary are smaller and come with less features. They also come in smaller sizes. They are smaller than cookers. Their capacities range from 30 to forty litres. Some models have larger capacities. They are ideal for those with a small space or for those who don't do much hob cooking. Some also have a variety of cooking options, such as pizza stone that produces a crispy crust and a perforated tray that is ideal for steaming vegetables.