What Is a Convection Microwave? A Simple Explanation

A convection microwave is a useful kitchen tool that works as both a microwave and an oven. It lets you heat, bake, and roast your food all in one device. Because it is versatile and small, it is perfect for small kitchens, apartments, and RVs.

How does a convection microwave oven work?

A convection microwave oven has two main settings. The first one works like a regular microwave, using microwaves to heat or cook food. The second setting turns it into a convection oven, where a heating element and fan spread heat evenly.

This lets you do things like baking, roasting, and broiling, which you can't do with a regular microwave. You can switch between the two modes to cook food faster. This makes it a versatile appliance for your kitchen.

What are the benefits of a convection microwave?

A convection microwave is a combination of a regular microwave and a convection oven, and it has many benefits:

Cooks Faster: It cooks food quicker than regular ovens by using microwave energy and blowing hot air around.

Cooks Evenly: The fan inside helps heat spread evenly, so your food cooks thoroughly without hot spots. This is especially helpful for baking and roasting.

Multi-Function: You can bake, roast, grill, and reheat food, making it a handy tool in your kitchen.

Saves Energy: Convection microwaves typically use less energy than traditional ovens because they heat up faster and often cook at lower temperatures.

Keeps Food Moist: They help keep food moist, which helps maintain flavors and textures.

Makes Food Crispy: The convection feature browns and crisps food, just like a traditional oven, making it great for meats, pizzas, and baked goods.

Saves Space: A convection microwave can take the place of both your microwave and oven, saving counter space, especially in smaller kitchens.

Healthier Cooking: Many models have settings for steaming and grilling, allowing you to make healthier meals with less oil.

Easy to Clean: Most have smooth, non-stick interiors that are easier to clean than regular ovens.

Saves Time: With quick cooking times and preset options, a convection microwave helps you prepare meals more quickly.

How to use a convection microwave?

To cook well with a convection microwave, it’s important to consider what you are preparing. Here are some general tips to keep in mind. These guidelines should work for most convection microwaves, but each appliance can vary. For the best results, refer to your product manual for specific cooking advice for your model.

Reheating or Cooking for Short Times

Use the microwave setting to reheat or cook food quickly. This is great for warming leftovers, popping popcorn, steaming vegetables, and heating prepackaged meals.

Cooking for Longer Times

Switch to the convection setting for foods that need more time to cook, like roasted meats and vegetables, baked goods, and pizza or anything that should be browned or crispy.

Cooking Quickly

If your convection microwave has a combination setting, use it to cook food faster and get a crispy outer layer. Just keep an eye on your food so it doesn’t overcook or burn.

Ensuring Good Air Circulation

Use the round convection rack and shallow bake ware to let air flow properly in your convection microwave.

Using Metal Safely

Only use metal items with the convection setting. Don’t use metal with the microwave or combination settings.

Can you put foil in a convection microwave?

You can use foil in a convection microwave, but only when it's set to convection mode. Don’t use foil when using the regular or combination settings, as it could damage the microwave.

When you use foil, keep it away from the walls of the microwave and make sure it doesn't block any air vents. Remember to check on your food occasionally while it's cooking.

Who should consider a convection microwave?

So, should you upgrade to a convection microwave oven? It depends on your needs. If you have a small kitchen, you might like how versatile and space-saving a convection microwave is. Plus, it's convenient and fast, which is great if you are often short on time.

Still unsure which microwave is best for you? No problem – this guide will help you explore different options and find the perfect one for your kitchen.

Conclusion

A convection microwave is a handy kitchen tool that works as both a microwave and an oven, making it great for small kitchens, apartments, or RVs. It lets you heat, bake, roast, and grill food quickly and evenly, while also saving space. If you are looking for a fast and easy way to cook without giving up quality, a convection microwave is a smart choice for your kitchen.

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