Test: How Much Do You Know About Oven Uk?
How to Choose an Oven That Meets Your Cooking Needs
Over the years ovens have been improving in terms of design and function. There are now ovens that have self-cleaning lines.
These lines heat up the interior of the oven, which is helpful for cleaning. Some models have the option of a timer that can be set without regard to the cooking function.
History
Since the beginning of time, humans have utilized fire to keep warm and cook food. But it wasn't until 1490 that the first oven built specifically for use was discovered, built in France made of bricks and incorporating a a grate where cauldrons made of metal could be placed.
This new oven was a big improvement on the open flames of a fireplace. cooking was usually done in large metal pots and hung above but it was difficult to regulate the temperature. It took years of testing and improvements before a method could be developed to bake bread or roast meat without turning black.
Ovens have continued to improve throughout the years. By the 1800s, sizeable brick hearths were constructed using a brick oven where a fire pit was built within, with cauldrons made of metal hanging over to heat. It took another two decades before the first practical coal oven was invented in 1833. It was followed by the first gas stoves equipped with top burners and ovens with interiors.
In 1826, British inventor James Sharp invents the first semi-successful oven. By 1920 they were a standard kitchen appliance. Electric ovens appeared in the 60 years following, depending on how quickly electricity was introduced to households.
In the US they're called toaster ovens, and in Britain they are known as a hob, or a cooker. However, the term "oven is more often used for any type of oven that cooks using a source of heat other than an open flame or metal cauldron. There are many kinds of ovens that are available today. You will find one that can handle anything you want from grilling to baking to steaming.
Whether you're looking for a double wall oven or a traditional wood fired Aga there is a wide selection available to meet any budget and style. However, just like the ovens of old they aren't indestructible and they can break down periodically which is the reason we are here. 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 different technologies. Many ovens have fan assisted. This is because, as well as the oven element heating the food, there is a fan which distributes the hot air around the oven cavity to ensure that all food is cooked evenly. This is especially useful when you're baking.
In addition certain ovens are smart, that means they can be controlled remotely through an app. This is particularly useful for busy people or those who want to prepare dinner when you arrive home from work.
There are also multicooking technology available which allow you to cook using traditional, microwave and steam in the same oven. This can help you achieve professional results in a shorter time, such as perfect roast potatoes or a chicken*. It can cut down your energy usage by as much as 50%. This technology is sometimes called a "multicooker" however we believe the term "gourmet" is an accurate description!
Energy efficiency
Ovens are a staple of the majority of UK kitchens and are used on a regular basis for baking, roasting, and even making some our favourite desserts. So when it comes to choosing the right oven, it's essential to find the right one that can meet all of our needs for cooking while being energy efficient too.
Due to the rising cost of electricity, it's more crucial than ever that you take into consideration the amount your oven will cost you to run. It's essential to look up the energy rating on each oven's page. It is ideal to have an oven that has an A+ or above energy rating which will help to reduce your household expenses.
You should also look at the additional features that are available. If you want to save time cleaning the oven, for instance, select a model that has self-cleaning capabilities. This means the oven will get to temperatures of 400-500 degrees Celsius and burn off any food spills, helping you avoid the need to clean the oven on a regular basis.
A minute minder is a useful feature to look for. It allows you to set a time limit for your cooking. Some ovens also have smart technology, which allows you to connect it to a smartphone app and manage it remotely, should you wish.
According to Uswitch an electric oven is priced at around 17p an hour. It's therefore crucial to select the right model for your home, so that you can cut the cost of energy. Other appliances such as air fryers, slow cookers and microwaves also consume significantly less energy than ovens.
You can also cut down on your energy use by ensuring that your oven is properly sealed. Install a reflective hood over the cooker's hood to reflect heat back into the cavity. This will lower your energy bills, as your oven won't need to be as active to maintain an even temperature.
Cooking options
Depending on how often you cook and what recipes you enjoy, your oven could have a range of specialist functions that you prepare food. Some of these functions include bread proofing which creates an environment that is warm and controlled that encourages dough to rise. Or bottom heat settings to ensure the consistency of your cooking and a gentle cooking. Some also provide rapid heat settings to reach temperatures faster, ideal for those who are in a hurry.
Certain ovens come with the ability to defrost using low heat to gradually thaw frozen foods without cooking them, which saves time and money. Other options, such as the Interior Light feature lets you see your food as baking and the Reheat function keeps hot dishes at a lower temperature to avoid drying out or overcooking.
If you think about the many different types of food you can cook using an oven, it's obvious that it's an essential kitchen appliance that is essential to any home. If you want to get the most out of your oven, you must learn about all its functions.
For example, if you're making a traditional roast, using the Conventional setting is recommended to ensure it comes out well cooked and crisped. However, if you're planning to grill your meat, using the Grill mode is more effective in making juicy and delicious steaks.
Ovens usually have a range of built-in appliances like racks, trays, and a Telescopic run for shelves. There are models that have additional features such as a warming drawer, compact steam oven or a healthier alternative to conventional baking. These models maximise nutrients and eliminate unhealthy additives.
Stand-alone models on the contrary are smaller and have smaller features. They also come in smaller capacities. Generally, they're smaller than cookers and be able to hold 30 to 40 litres, although some are larger. best oven suited to homes with a smaller space or that don't require a lot of cooking hobs. Some come with multiple cooking options, including pizza stones that produce a crisp crust and an insulated plate for steaming vegetables.