Convection toaster ovens are used to bake, broil and toast. Depending on the brand, this kitchen appliance can do either conventional or convectional baking.
In some kitchens, a convection toaster oven replaces the bigger wall or standalone ovens. This versatile kitchen appliance also saves on counter space because it can also toast and broil.
General Guidelines
The conventional bake function works similarly to that of a regular kitchen oven. This allows you to use the convection toaster oven for baking with the same baking time and temperature as the conventional way.
The convection bake function does what a conventional oven does to bake and roast but in a shorter amount of time. The big difference is the use of the right airflow to aid in cooking.
The broiling function is used to cook meat products such as beef, pork, chicken and fish. You can also use a convection toaster oven to broil top-brown casseroles and gratins.
The toasting function is used to toast bread. Some brands have a separate toaster placed on the top part of the oven where a slat can be closed and opened when toasting. The slats are big enough to fit bagels.
Convection Bake/Roast
When choosing the option for convection bake/roast on your convection toaster oven, the LED will light up. Preheat the oven first by adjusting temperature using the Up or Down button (depending on the brand, it can be a knob instead of a touch pad). The heated air that is generated is then circulated by the built-in fan.
For better cooking results, use the right cooking pan to allow for better air circulation. For example, use a cookie sheet without sides, or a baking pan or casserole dish with lower sides to allow more air into the food. Do not cover the food with aluminum foil, or with a casserole or pan cover while cooking to let the hot air in. Place the cooking pan or baking pan centered on the rack to allow for even airflow distribution on front and back, top and bottom and all sides.
It is advisable to lower the temperature by 25 degrees Fahrenheit when cooking with convection oven. For example, if the recipe calls for 350 degrees Fahrenheit on a conventional oven, set it for 325 degrees Fahrenheit for convection.
Check the food 10 minutes before the suggested cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Toast
Toasting is the process of drying and cooking the bread. It is important to choose the browning selection on your convection toaster oven. Choose a lighter setting than you normally would for thin sliced breads that are slightly dry. Choose a darker setting than normal if you are using bread that is thicker, more moist or if you are using wheat bread. Use the same setting for fresh, dense or moist bread because they take longer to cook.
Use a darker setting when toasting bread with uneven surface such as English muffins. Use darker settings when toasting thickly sliced bread such as bagels. It takes longer to toast these types of bread due to the moisture trapped inside the bread.
Broil
When broiling, use the top rack and place a drip tray or pan underneath to catch the grease and juice. Add a quarter cup of water to the drip tray to avoid splattering. Depending on the size and thickness, you can adjust the rack positioning to cook the food evenly.
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