How to Choose an Oven That Meets Your Cooking Needs
Over time ovens have been constantly improving in both appearance and functionality. Today, you can find ovens that have self-cleaning lines.
These lines create a warmer oven's interior and helps in cleaning. Some models have the option of a timer that can be set without regard to the cooking function.
History
Since humans have existed, we have used fire to keep warm and to cook food. It wasn't until the year 1490 that an oven specifically designed for cooking was created in France built of bricks, with a grate on which cauldrons made of metal could be placed.
The new oven was a huge improvement over the open flames of a fireplace, where cooking was typically done in large metal pots that were hung above but it was tricky to control the temperature. It took years of experimentation and improvement before a method was devised to bake bread or roasting meat that could be eaten without getting blackened in the process.
Ovens have continued to improve over the centuries. In the 1800s, huge brick hearths with a brick-oven were built, and metal cauldrons were placed above to heat. It took another two decades to get the first practical coal-fired oven to be developed in 1833. Then came the development of the first gas stoves with top burners and ovens inside.
In 1826, British inventor James Sharp invented the first oven that was semi-failure. By 1920, they were a standard 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 known as toaster-ovens and in Britain, they're known as a hob. However, the term "oven" is used more broadly to describe any kind of oven that utilizes an energy source that isn't an open fire or metal cauldron. There are hundreds of types of ovens that are available today. You will find one that can handle anything you want from grilling to baking to steaming.
If you're looking to buy a double wall oven or a traditional wood fired Aga there's a wide range of options to satisfy every budget and taste. They are not indestructible and are susceptible to breaking down at any point. This is the place we step in. We can help you if you require repairs to your oven or replace a part. Give us a call, or contact us online.
Technology
Ovens are available in a range of technologies. For example, many are fan assisted. The fan circulates hot air evenly around the oven cavity, as well as the oven element. This is particularly helpful when you are baking.
Some ovens can also be controlled remotely using an app. This is especially useful for busy people or those who want to have dinner ready when you return from work.
Multicooking technology is also accessible that allows you to cook with traditional, microwave or steam in the same kitchen appliance. This can help you get professional results in a shorter time, such as the perfect roast potatoes or chicken*. It can also help you cut down on the energy you use by up to 50%. This type of technology is usually referred to as a 'multicooker however we believe the term 'gourmet oven' is a better term!
Energy efficiency
Ovens are a common feature in most UK kitchens and are used on a regular basis for roasting, baking, and even making some our favorite desserts. So when you're looking to buy the right oven, it's essential to find the right one that can meet all of our cooking needs whilst being energy efficient too.
Due to the increase in electricity prices, it's now more important than ever before to consider the amount an oven will cost to run. It's important to check the energy rating on each product's page. It is ideal to have an oven with an A+ or above energy rating, which will help reduce your household expenses.
You should also look at the additional features that are available. For oven with hob , if you're trying to cut down on time spent cleaning the oven, choose a model with self-cleaning capabilities. This means that the oven can get to temperatures of 400-500 degrees Celsius and burn off any food spillages which will help you avoid having to clean the oven regularly.
Other useful functions to look out for are the child lock, which prevents children from operating the appliance and the minute minder feature, which allows you to set a predetermined duration for cooking. Some ovens are also smart which lets you connect it to a smartphone app and manage it remotely, if desired.
According to Uswitch an electric oven is priced at approximately 17p per hour. It is therefore essential to choose the correct model for your home in order to cut down on your energy costs. Other appliances, such as slow cookers, air fryers and microwaves also use significantly less energy than an oven.
Another method to cut down on energy consumption when cooking is to make sure that your oven is protected. Install a reflective hood over your cooker hood to reflect heat back into the cavity. This will help reduce your energy costs, since your oven won't need to work as hard to maintain the same temperature.
Cooking options
Depending on the frequency you cook and what recipes you enjoy Your oven could come with various functions that make it easier to prepare food. These include bread proofing settings, which provide the perfect temperature and control to help dough rise or lower heat settings for gentle cooking and even consistency. Some also offer rapid heat settings to heat up faster which is ideal for those needing to rush.
Certain ovens come with a defrost function that uses low temperatures to slowly thaw frozen foods without cooking them, saving time and money. Other options, such as the Interior Light function let you see your food as it's baking and the Reheat function keeps hot food at lower temperatures to avoid drying out or overcooking.
It's evident that an oven is an vital kitchen appliance. However, if you want to make the most of it, acquainting yourself with its many functions will assist you in achieving delicious results every time.
For instance, 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're planning to grill meat, the Grill mode will produce juicy and flavoursome steaks.
Ovens usually come with a selection of built-in appliances such as racks, trays and even 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 have smaller features. They also come in smaller capacities. They are generally smaller than cookers and be able to hold 30-40 litres, however, some are larger. These may be better for homes with a small amount of space, or that don't use a lot of cooking on the hob. There are also a range of cooking options, like a pizza stone tray that produces a crispy crust and a perforated tray that is ideal for steaming vegetables.