Everything you need to know about the convection oven

For many cooking enthusiasts, the oven is a basic appliance that is essential, as it allows for the preparation of various types of dishes. However, you may achieve better results while saving time and energy by opting to use a convection oven instead of a conventional one. If you want to know what a convection oven is, how it works, what its advantages are, and what you can prepare with it, you have come to the right place, as at kiwilimón we share everything you need to know about this appliance that will be a great ally in your kitchen. You can also read: How to properly use an ovenWhat is a convection oven and how does it work?A convection oven is an appliance that can bake food using a combination of convection and steam. Unlike conventional ovens, convection ovens have a fan that moves hot air inside the oven; by distributing it throughout the cavity and accelerating heat transfer, it allows food to cook more evenly.In some models, known as true convection ovens, in addition to the fan, there is a third heater, making them even more efficient, as noted by Insider.Due to their advantages and features, convection ovens are often used in bakeries, but there are also household models, both regular size and compact, which are very useful for cooking various types of food. Advantages and disadvantages of convection ovensNext, we will tell you the advantages of convection ovens that will make you want to have one in your kitchen. They allow for even cookingConvection ovens distribute hot air throughout the oven cavity, allowing it to reach all corners of the food being baked. Additionally, with a convection oven, you no longer have to turn your food halfway through cooking for it to bake perfectly. All this means that the cooking process is carried out more evenly than in a regular oven. Furthermore, convection ovens are excellent if you are looking for a crispy finish on your food, as noted by the portal Digital Trends.They bake faster at lower temperaturesSince convection ovens allow for more efficient use of the hot air responsible for cooking the food, less time and temperature are required to achieve the desired results compared to regular ovens. According to various sources, a convection oven requires between 15% and 30% less time than indicated in a recipe designed for a conventional oven, and the temperature can vary from 15 to 25 degrees less depending on what is being baked.They save energyBecause they require less time and temperature, convection ovens use up to 20% less energy, as noted by the portal Constellation, which will reflect in savings for your wallet if you regularly use the oven to prepare your meals.They can bake multiple dishes at onceBaking different dishes at the same time will not be a problem with a convection oven. You just need to ensure that the dishes require the same temperature and leave enough space between them and the walls of the oven for hot air to circulate properly. The best part is that you won’t have to worry about the flavors mixing. Healthier foodUsing a convection oven allows for more of the food's nutritional properties to be retained compared to other cooking methods. This is because, thanks to convection, food is exposed to heat for a shorter time, thus preserving its benefits.In the case of countertop convection ovens, it is important to note that they have the advantage of being much more compact. This makes them a great option for kitchens with limited space. On the other hand, it is worth noting that a disadvantage of convection ovens is that most recipes requiring an oven are designed for conventional ovens. This does not mean that the same dishes cannot be prepared in a convection oven, but it will be necessary to familiarize yourself with the times and temperatures to adjust them as needed. Additionally, as noted by Designer Appliances, convection ovens are not as good as regular ones when it comes to preparing foods that require a humid environment to cook properly.You can also read: Christmas dishes you can bake at the same timeWhat can be cooked in a convection oven?Convection ovens are great for baking, toasting, broiling, and even roasting, so you can prepare a wide variety of dishes in them. Therefore, you can prepare all kinds of recipes that include vegetables, turkey, chicken, beef, or pork. You can also make cookies, cupcakes, and other delicious desserts that are not too delicate. Likewise, it is an excellent option for making pizza or reheating food. The key is to take advantage of the slightly drier environment inside convection ovens. On the contrary, this appliance may not be the best option when it comes to preparing cakes, flans, soufflés, or macarons, as experts say that convection can affect the results of desserts that require more humid environments and whose cooking process needs time to rise. Additionally, it should be considered that the fan could work against delicate preparations. What do you think about convection ovens? Would you like to have one at home? Whether you want to prepare your meals in a conventional oven or in a convection one, at kiwilimón you will find irresistible oven recipes, as well as tips for using this appliance and other appliances like an expert to make the most of it and enjoy exquisite dishes.You can also read: 5 ways to use your air fryer this Christmas