Respected bloggers and TV chefs have been raving about them for the last few years. So what exactly is the appeal of the multi-function oven? Simply, it is a versatile system for managing the disparate elements of meal preparation. For instance, bottom heat will ensure you achieve a crispy pizza base - and dough proving will emulate the ideal conditions needed for the dough to double in size quickly. Of course, the exact functions vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, but you can expect everything from a fanned oven and grilling to steam cooking and meat probes.
Multi-function ovens feature multiple heating elements behind the oven walls – one at the top, one at the bottom and one positioned around an electric fan, in addition to a grill element contained within the cavity. These are used in combination or separately to enable optimum performance. The list of functions may seem perplexing to those accustomed to turning the oven on and wishing for the best; much of the time you are likely to be using the fanned-heat function. It’s possible to brown say, a shepherd’s pie, on the top element in a few minutes without drying it out.
Similarly, a flan or pizza will benefit tremendously from being cooked using the bottom element only, and you will be astonished at the speed, smoothness and spit-free advantages of this type of fanned grilling. Further pluses include the popular defrost functions, which involve using a fan without the relevant heating element (certain models have a Rapid Start setting to push the oven to temperature as fast as possible). Multi-function ovens are found on many high-end freestanding cookers and built-in ovens. In fact, they are standard on a lot of midrange UK-style range cookers.
Range cookers with multi-function ovens are not overly expensive, with prices beginning at roughly £1000. So are these highly esteemed ovens worth the money? We would say so. There are myriad variations on the market now, so you can identify the right model for your style of cooking: whether you’re a keen baker or prefer a healthy cooking approach with methods like steaming. Usefully, the fact that multi-function ovens are available on both free-standing range cookers and built in appliances means there is sure to be a system that suits your kitchen layout.
It could be for a healthy grilled supper, a delicious Sunday roast or a Victoria sponge for your afternoon tea - these ovens have it all covered. As well as the high level of convenience for busy families or individuals on the go, they are typically around 20% more energy efficient than other ovens. We also recommend looking into the latest 3D cooking features. Why not visit our main website and see what’s available today? If you’re considering a new oven, our experts will be delighted to explore the options with you. You can speak to one of them on 0843 362 934.