Next time you're thinking of using your microwave function on the Smeg Omnichef oven to Melt butter, chocolate or reheating try using the dedicated Melt function.
You can find this under the Other Functions button on your oven's display along with the equally useful Soften Function
The Melt function is designed to gently heat or soften food taking all the guess work out of how many watts and time is required by jus choosing the Melt option or the Soften Option
But the use of these two functions doesnt end with just softening or melting butter.
They are also great functions for cooking delicate foods
The Melt function is particularly good for high sugar ingredients ā soften up glazes, jams, honey and most sauces to a pourable consistency without the worry of overheating.
Here are some other ideas
- Custard
In a small microwave bowl put 1tsp vanilla extract, 2 tsps Cornflour and 2tsp sugar. Make a slurry using 1 cup of half and half or full cream milk by adding slowly to get a lump free mix. Pop in Omni chef oven and choose Melt function, adjust time to 3 minutes and you have a perfect custard, stir halfway and then give a good whisk once done - Scrambled eggs
Lightly beat 2 eggs with 2 tbsp of milk or cream in microwave safe bowl, pop in oven, press the Melt function, stir halfway through. Timing will depend on the size and temperature of eggs. Remove, season, enjoy - Quick flavoured oil
Pour 1 cup of olive or plain oil into microwave proof bowl, add a sprig of fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano, chili, ginger etc) smashed clove or two of garlic. Pop into oven, press the Melt icon, adjust time to 2 minutes, check and add another 2 minutes. Leave to cool before adding other ingredients for a quick marinade - Cheese Dips Try melting pieces of left over cheeses for a great hot dip.
- Tempering Chocolate
Due to the controlled power the melt function is perfect for achieving the right temperature for tempered chocolate.
Soften Function
The soften function is ideal when you're baking or want an ingredient to be soft and pliable without over softening or melting i.e. butter, cream cheese, quick defrost to get an even result.
Between these two functions, you can achieve a huge number of otherwise tricky to achieve results
