A combi oven, short for combination oven, is a versatile piece of cooking equipment that combines three methods of cooking in one appliance: convection, steam, and a combination of steam and convection.
The convection mode circulates dry heat – ideal for pastries and bread. The steam mode delicately cooks fish, rice, and vegetables by injecting water into the oven and using the resulting steam. The combination mode, often referred to as “combi cooking,” uses both dry heat and steam to maintain exact humidity levels, thus giving you the ability to control the moisture levels in food.
The Benefits of Using a Combi Oven in Singapore
One of the main benefits of a combi oven is its versatility. With the ability to cook with steam, dry heat, or a combination of both, chefs can prepare a wide range of dishes using different cooking techniques. This means that everything from steamed vegetables to roasted meats and baked pastries can be achieved in the same unit.
Consistency is another significant advantage. Thanks to precise temperature and humidity control, a combi oven ensures consistent results. Whether it’s achieving the perfect crust on a loaf of bread or ensuring tender, juicy meat, you can expect reliable outcomes with every use.
Healthier cooking is an additional benefit of using a combi oven. The ability to steam food means that nutrients are better retained compared to other cooking methods, resulting in healthier and more flavorful dishes.
Moreover, in a city like Singapore where space is a premium, the combi oven is a boon. It eliminates the need for multiple appliances, saving precious kitchen space without compromising on the variety of dishes that can be prepared.
How to Use a Combi Oven?
Here’s a basic guide on how to use it:
Choose the Cooking Mode: Select the desired cooking method based on the food you’re preparing. Use convection mode for baking, steam mode for steaming, and combi mode when you want to retain the moisture in your food while achieving a nice crust.
Set the Temperature: After selecting the cooking mode, set the temperature. Combi ovens can reach high temperatures, similar to conventional ovens, but also have the ability to hold very low temperatures.
Set the Humidity Level: If you’re using the combi mode, you’ll need to set the desired humidity level. This feature allows you to control the texture and browning of your food. Higher humidity levels are ideal for foods that need to remain moist, like meats and casseroles, while lower humidity levels are perfect for roasting and baking.
Time Setting: Set the cooking time. Some advanced models might also have a delay start feature.
Start Cooking: Place your food in the oven and start cooking. One of the benefits of a combi oven is the ability to cook multiple dishes at once without flavor transfer.
Clean the Oven: After cooking, use the oven’s self-cleaning feature if available. Regular cleaning is crucial in maintaining the performance of a combi oven.
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Remember, each combi oven might come with different features and settings, so always refer to the user manual for specific instructions. It is a game-changer in Singapore’s culinary scene. Its versatility, consistency, and space-saving design make it an invaluable asset in any kitchen, promising a superior cooking experience and delicious results every time.
