Why You Should Trade Your Air Fryer for This Versatile Kitchen Essential
While air fryers and multicookers are popular, this food writer swears by her countertop oven. Discover the reasons why this magic multitasker should be your new kitchen favorite.
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I developed a passion for small appliances when I was young.
The Easy-Bake Oven sparked my interest in cooking from a small device, which led to some fun experiments with microwave meals during my latchkey kid days. When I got my own apartment in college, I made sure to have a toaster oven of my own.
Fast forward twenty-something years, toaster oven technology has advanced significantly from the basic model I first owned. Despite the changes, my love for my small oven continues to grow, as it remains the most essential appliance in my daily routine.
The name "oven" is significant because it can do everything a full-size conventional oven can do and more. It's not just a toaster oven; it's a countertop oven.
If I had to choose only one kitchen appliance to keep - whether it's the high-speed blender, stand mixer, compressor ice-cream maker, or multicooker - the countertop oven would likely be my top choice. (Although, I must admit, giving up the stand mixer would be tough.) My dedication to my countertop oven runs deep, and here's why.
The toaster oven is a versatile appliance that can perform multiple tasks, making it the original multitasker. Instead of cluttering your countertop with several appliances, this countertop oven can handle various cooking functions. It can toast bread and bagels, as well as perform convection baking, air frying, dehydrating, and even dough proofing.
The broiler in my air fryer is roomy and works much better than the broiler in my oven. I don't have to strain my back trying to slide sheet pans into the cramped drawer below my regular oven. (Seriously, who thought those bottom broiler drawers were a good idea?)
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My countertop oven is my secret weapon in the fight for better leftovers. When I create a monthly meal plan, I always plan to reheat half of what I cook, making this function crucial. Most dishes taste better when not zapped in a microwave, so I let my countertop oven restore my meals to their original crispy, bubbly texture. No more soggy cutlets or mushy pasta casseroles in this house!
A countertop oven is a quick fix.
I acknowledge that a countertop oven may not heat food as fast as a microwave's one-minute express cook button. However, I believe that the taste benefits make up for it, and you can still heat food and cook quicker than using a large conventional oven.
In my experience, my countertop oven can preheat to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius) in just five minutes (I've timed it). In comparison, my full-size oven takes 15 minutes to reach the same temperature. This time difference is significant - I can enjoy my reheated pizza in those 10 minutes!
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Additionally, the convection and air-fry features on my countertop oven cook food faster and more efficiently than regular heat. The convection method spreads hot air around the food for even heating, allowing me to save at least five minutes on my baking and roasting times every meal.
When our old kitchen range kicked the bucket a few years back, I decided not to splurge on a fancy new one. Instead, I opted for a high-quality countertop oven that cost me half the price of the range. Surprisingly, I find myself using the countertop oven twice as much as the old range.
This countertop oven has become a summer essential for me.
I have a vivid memory of testing out recipes for my first cookbook, "Classic Snacks Made from Scratch," on a hot summer day in New Jersey. It was July, and I was experimenting with making homemade crackers. This meant having my oven on for hours in a house without central air conditioning.
During breaks between batches, I found myself lying on the kitchen floor, drenched in sweat and tears, questioning why I had willingly subjected myself to such discomfort.
I may not have central air conditioning, but I am grateful that I don't have to bake and test various baked goods every day. For my everyday summer baking and roasting needs, I rely on my countertop oven. It produces less heat than my regular oven and cools down quickly after cooking.
When I need to use larger baking sheets or multiple pans, I opt to bake on my grill.
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What to look for in a countertop oven
So, you're on board with the idea of switching to a countertop oven instead of using multiple appliances. That's awesome! But before you make a purchase, take a moment to consider which oven will best match your cooking style.
It's important to select a model that can accommodate the cookware and bakeware you use regularly. For example, my countertop oven is spacious enough to hold a standard 9-by-13-inch casserole dish or sheet pan, as well as a 10-inch round baking pan or cast-iron skillet. With this capacity, I can easily prepare meals for a small group of six to eight people using just one convenient appliance.
Choosing the right size oven is crucial. While a smaller oven may seem appealing for a neat kitchen appearance, opting for a larger model that fits comfortably in your space is more versatile. Adequate space allows for proper air circulation, ensuring your food cooks efficiently.
Next, consider the extra functions you may need. Some ovens come with various features like slow cook or wi-fi capabilities. It's essential to evaluate if these functions are necessary for you before making a purchase. Some features may not be utilized, so think about whether they are worth the additional cost.
Casey Barber is a food writer, artist and editor of the website Good Food Stories.
Editor's P/S:
The article highlights the versatility and convenience of countertop ovens, making them an indispensable appliance in any kitchen. Their ability to perform multiple functions, from toasting to air frying and convection baking, eliminates the need for additional appliances, saving space and simplifying meal preparation. Countertop ovens also preheat faster than conventional ovens and offer more precise temperature control, resulting in evenly cooked and crispy dishes. They are especially beneficial during summer months, generating less heat and cooling down quickly.
Furthermore, countertop ovens offer a cost-effective alternative to full-size ranges, providing similar functionality at a lower price point. When selecting a countertop oven, it's essential to consider the size and capacity that best suits your cooking needs, as well as any additional features that may enhance your culinary experience. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find the perfect countertop oven to elevate your cooking and simplify your kitchen routine.
