When considering a new oven, don't overlook the advantages of upgrading to a Steam Assist Oven. Many people are unsure about the various types of steam ovens available and worry that they might need to change their cooking methods or think that steam ovens are only suitable for fish and vegetables. However, with a Steam Assist Oven, you can continue using your current cooking techniques with little change to the process, but a big improvement in the result. The addition of steam during the cooking process enhances results for meat, bread, vegetables, and baked goods.
Steam injected into the oven cavity assists by reducing the evaporation of moisture from meat and other proteins, leading to a juicier and more tender outcome without sacrificing the flavour or browning you're used to. Moreover, since steam penetrates food more quickly than dry air, your dishes will cook faster, saving you both time and energy. Steam also helps to render fat more efficiently, so you can eliminate the need for added fat in your roasting tray, resulting in healthier meals.
Another advantage of Steam Assist Ovens is that many models come with built-in pyrolytic self-cleaning functions, simplifying maintenance. For example, with a SMEG Steam Assist Oven, you can easily prepare your favourite roast meat. Simply select a suitable steam assist function, adjust the moisture level (40% is ideal for roasting meat), set your desired temperature, and either choose a cooking time or use the supplied Meat Probe to set a final core temperature. The oven will cook until the set temperature is reached and then automatically turn off, ensuring perfectly cooked roast every time.
Artisan Bakers have been adding steam to their oven cavities for decades. The addition of steam to the oven cavity at the beginning of the bread cooking session assists with greater oven spring, better rise and a thinner but crisper crust giving a superior loaf with great crumb. By adding steam, the surface of the dough remains cooler and more damp, allowing for that greater initial rise.
In the same way, when baking cakes, the addition of steam means the crust formation on the top surface of the cake is delayed, meaning cakes have more rise and are more even, reducing the chance of peaks and cracking.
As you can see upgrading to a Steam Assist Oven offers numerous benefits that go beyond what traditional ovens can provide. With the enhancement of flavour, texture, and overall quality of your dishes, from juicy meats to perfectly baked bread and cakes. Without adapting your cooking process, the oven delivers healthier, more efficient results. With features like adjustable moisture levels and self-cleaning options, these ovens not only make cooking easier but also elevate the quality of your meals. Whether you're an experienced home cook or just looking to improve your daily cooking, a Steam Assist Oven is a worthwhile investment that brings professional-grade results to your kitchen.
