I Tried a Combi Oven for 30 Days—Here Are the Results

I still remember the excitement I felt when I first unpacked my new kitchen appliance, a combi oven that promised to revolutionize my cooking experience. As a home cook, I was eager to explore its capabilities and see if it lived up to the hype.

Did you know that combi ovens, which combine the functions of a conventional oven and a steamer, have been a staple in professional kitchens for years? With the rise of home cooking, these versatile appliances are now making their way into home kitchens, offering a new level of culinary flexibility.

Over the next 30 days, I put this appliance to the test, experimenting with various recipes and exploring the benefits of steam cooking. What did I discover, and was it worth the investment? Let’s dive into my findings.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the benefits of using a combi oven for home cooking.
• Learn about the versatility of combi ovens in preparing various dishes.
• Understand the advantages of steam cooking and its impact on food quality.
• Find out if investing in a combi oven is worth it for different types of home cooks.
• Get insights into the cooking experiments and results from the 30-day test.

What Is a Combi Oven and Why I Wanted to Try One

For years, chefs have relied on the combi oven to achieve perfect results, and I was curious to see if it could do the same in my home kitchen. A combi oven, short for combination oven, is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines three distinct cooking methods: convection, steam, and a combination of both.

The Professional Kitchen Secret Coming to Home Cooks

In professional kitchens, the combi oven is a staple, allowing chefs to achieve precise moisture control and perfect results. The combination mode, which uses both dry heat and steam, makes it easier to control the moisture levels in food. This level of control is particularly useful when cooking delicate dishes that require specific humidity levels.

My Kitchen Challenges That Led Me to Consider a Combi Oven

As a home cook, I’ve faced several kitchen challenges, including limitations with my conventional oven. I’ve struggled to achieve the perfect roast, and cooking delicate fish has been a hit-or-miss affair. I hoped that a combi oven might solve these problems and expand my culinary capabilities.

With its advanced cooking modes and precise moisture control, I believed that a combi oven could help me achieve professional-level results in my home kitchen.

Understanding Combi Oven Technology

Delving into the world of combi ovens reveals a sophisticated cooking technology that combines convection, steam, and a unique combination mode. This multifaceted approach to cooking allows for a wide range of culinary possibilities, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.

The Three Cooking Functions: Convection, Steam, and Combination Mode

A combi oven operates through three primary cooking functions. The convection mode uses a fan to circulate hot air, ensuring even cooking and browning. This is particularly useful for roasting meats and baking bread. The steam function works by injecting steam into the oven cavity, maintaining nutrients and preventing food from drying out. It’s ideal for cooking delicate fish and steaming vegetables. The combination mode is where the combi oven truly shines, using both dry heat and steam to maintain precise humidity levels, making it a lot easier to control the moisture levels in food.

The combination mode is revolutionary because it allows for the precise control of moisture, which is crucial for achieving restaurant-quality results at home. By adjusting the balance between dry heat and steam, cooks can achieve the perfect texture and flavor in their dishes.

How Moisture Control Creates Better Food

Moisture control is a critical aspect of cooking, as it directly impacts the texture and flavor of food. The combi oven’s ability to maintain exact humidity levels way beyond traditional ovens, ensuring that dishes are cooked to perfection every time. This level of control is particularly beneficial when cooking a variety of foods, from tender steamed dumplings to crispy roasted vegetables, without the guesswork associated with conventional cooking methods.

By mastering the art of moisture control, home cooks can elevate their culinary skills, producing dishes that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. The combi oven’s advanced technology makes it easier to achieve professional-grade results, expanding the possibilities for creative and innovative cooking.

The Sharp Superheated Steam Countertop Oven: My 30-Day Test Subject

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I put the Sharp Superheated Steam Countertop Oven to the test for 30 days to see if it could live up to its claims of delivering restaurant-quality results at home. This countertop oven is designed to offer the versatility of a combi oven in a compact package, making it an attractive option for home cooks looking to expand their culinary capabilities.

Technical Specifications and Features

The Sharp Superheated Steam Countertop Oven boasts impressive technical specifications, including a spacious interior that can accommodate multiple layers of cooking. It features a steam function that allows for moist-heat cooking, which is ideal for cooking delicate foods without drying them out. The oven also includes a range of other cooking modes, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen countertop.

Key features of this model include its ability to superheat steam, a wide temperature range, and a user-friendly interface. These features differentiate it from other countertop appliances like toaster ovens and microwaves, offering a more sophisticated cooking experience.

Price Point Compared to Professional Models

Priced at $376, the Sharp Superheated Steam Countertop Oven is significantly more affordable than professional combi ovens, which can cost upwards of $20,000. While it may not offer all the advanced features of its professional counterparts, it provides a compelling value proposition for home cooks. The price point makes it an accessible entry into the world of combi oven cooking, allowing users to experiment with new recipes and techniques.

By comparing the Sharp Superheated Steam Countertop Oven to professional models, it’s clear that while there are compromises, the benefits of having a combi oven at home can be substantial. It’s an appliance that can enhance your cooking repertoire and provide consistent results.

Unboxing and First Impressions

The moment of truth arrived when I unboxed the Sharp Superheated Steam Countertop Oven, ready to put it through its paces. The packaging was sturdy and well-designed, protecting the oven during shipping. Upon opening, I was greeted by a comprehensive manual, a quick start guide, and a cleaning cloth.

Setup Process and Learning Curve

Setting up the combi oven was straightforward. I was impressed by the intuitive controls and the clear instructions provided. It took me about 30 minutes to understand the basic functions and start using the oven. The learning curve was gentle, with a range of options to explore, from convection to steam cooking.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the oven was exceptional, with a durable construction that felt solid and premium. The design was sleek and modern, fitting well in my kitchen. The control panel was easy to navigate, and the display was clear. I appreciated the kind of attention to detail that made the oven a joy to use.

As I began to use the oven, I was pleased with the kind of results I was getting. The oven performed well over time, and I found that it offered a wide range of cooking options. Overall, my first impressions were very positive, and I was excited to continue using the oven to explore its full capabilities.

Week One: The Basics and Early Experiments

In the first week of using the combi oven, I focused on getting familiar with its controls and experimenting with simple recipes. The combi oven, specifically the Sharp Superheated Steam Countertop Oven, promised to revolutionize my cooking experience with its advanced features like convection, steam, and combination modes.

First Meals and Learning the Controls

My initial experiments involved cooking basic dishes to test the oven’s functionality. I started with roasting vegetables, which turned out perfectly cooked with a nice caramelized exterior. The preheating speed was impressive, taking only 5-10 minutes to reach 450°F, significantly faster than my conventional oven. I was also pleased with how easy it was to use the controls, which were intuitive and responsive.

Some of my first meals included roasted chicken and baked potatoes. The combi oven’s ability to maintain consistent heat ensured that these dishes were cooked evenly. I was particularly happy with the results of roasting chicken, which had a crispy skin and juicy meat.

Comparing Results to My Conventional Oven

Comparing the combi oven to my traditional convection oven revealed some notable differences. The combi oven cooked food more evenly and quickly, thanks to its advanced moisture control and superheated steam technology. For instance, when reheating leftovers, the combi oven maintained the food’s moisture and texture much better than my microwave, which often leaves food dry and rubbery.

• The combi oven’s convection mode produced crisper results compared to my old convection oven.
• Reheating leftovers in the combi oven preserved the original texture and taste, unlike when using a microwave.
• Cooking times were generally shorter, thanks to the efficient heat distribution.

Overall, the first week with the combi oven was enlightening, showcasing its potential to enhance my cooking experience with its advanced features and efficient performance.

Week Two: Mastering Bread and Pastries

Week two of my combi oven trial was all about perfecting artisan bread and delicious pastries. I was eager to explore the capabilities of this versatile appliance, particularly its steam function, which I had heard was a game-changer for bread baking.

The Game-Changing Difference for Artisan Bread

The results with artisan bread were nothing short of amazing. Using the steam mode for about 20 minutes followed by convection, I achieved a crusty exterior and a soft interior, just like professional bakeries. The process was dead simple, and I was able to bake six medium baguettes at once, something my conventional oven couldn’t handle. The combi oven’s ability to maintain consistent temperature and moisture levels made all the difference.

“The steam function transformed my bread-baking experience,” I exclaimed to my wife, as we handed out freshly baked loaves to our neighbors. The combi oven’s performance was so impressive that my wife joked, “No more!” – she was thrilled with the abundance of freshly baked bread.

Pastries and Baked Goods Results

My experiments with pastries using the combi oven’s humid setting yielded surprisingly great results. While it wasn’t a knockout compared to my larger gas oven, the combi oven’s performance was on par, making it a viable option for pastry baking. I was pleased to discover that the combi oven could produce high-quality pastries without the need for a dedicated pastry oven.

I also tested the combi oven with pizza, comparing the results to both my conventional oven and pizza-specific appliances. The combi oven delivered a crispy crust and evenly cooked toppings, rivaling the performance of dedicated pizza ovens. In some cases, it even surpassed my expectations, producing a kind of crust that was both crunchy and chewy.

Overall, the combi oven proved to be a valuable addition to my kitchen, offering capabilities that went beyond those of a conventional oven or microwave. Whether baking bread, pastries, or pizza, the combi oven’s combination of steam and convection cooking opened up new possibilities for achieving professional-quality results at home.

Week Three: Exploring Protein Perfection

During my third week with the combi oven, I focused on cooking proteins to perfection. The combi oven’s advanced features, including convection, steam, and combination modes, offered a new way to achieve high-quality results with various proteins.

Chicken That Rivals Rotisserie Results

I started by cooking a whole chicken, a task I typically perform on my grill. The combi oven’s ability to turn on and off the steam proved to be a game-changer, resulting in juicy meat with a crispy exterior, similar to what you’d expect from a rotisserie. The combination of convection and steam created a perfectly cooked chicken that rivaled results from specialty shops. The precise moisture control was key to achieving this outcome, preventing the common issues of dry, overcooked meat or soggy exteriors.

The result was incredible, with the chicken having a nice crust that you typically only get on a rotisserie. This experiment showcased the combi oven’s capability to produce professional-grade results in a home kitchen.

Fish and Seafood Experiments

My experiments with fish and seafood were equally impressive. I prepared a Thai red snapper dish that received rave reviews from my family. The combi oven’s precise heat control and steam functionality allowed for a delicate cooking process that preserved the fish’s moisture and flavor. My wife’s immediate request to make it again was a testament to the dish’s success.

The combi oven’s performance with fish and seafood highlighted its versatility and the potential for exploring various cuisines with ease. By comparing these results to conventional cooking methods like grilling, pan-searing, and microwave cooking, it became clear that the combi oven offered a superior way to cook proteins.

My Combi Oven 30-Day Test: The Final Week

As I concluded my 30-day experiment, I turned my attention to the combi oven’s ability to prepare authentic Asian cuisine with ease. The final week was a thrilling ride, filled with experiments that tested the oven’s capabilities.

Asian Cuisine and Steamed Dumplings

In my final week of testing, I focused on the combi oven’s performance in cooking a variety of Asian dishes, including steamed dumplings. I made 48 steamed dumplings for some friends, with fillings ranging from shrimp and pork to vegetables and mushrooms. The results were astonishing – the dumplings were better than any dim sum I’ve ever had. The combi oven’s steam function allowed me to prep the dumplings ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and then quickly steam them to perfection when needed.

The process was straightforward: I prepped the dumplings, placed them in the oven, and steamed them for a few minutes until they were cooked through. The combi oven’s precise heat control and steam function made it an ideal tool for this task.

• Prep time was significantly reduced, allowing for a quick turnaround.
• The steam function helped retain the delicate texture of the dumplings.
• The results were consistently restaurant-quality.

Reheating Leftovers Without a Microwave

Another significant advantage of the combi oven was its ability to reheat leftovers without drying them out – a common issue when using a conventional oven or microwave. I work long days, and being able to keep food warm or reheat it quickly was a significant convenience. I was able to reheat various leftovers, comparing the texture and taste to microwave reheating. The combi oven’s steam function revitalized day-old foods that would typically become dry or rubbery.

The combi oven allowed me to reheat food without sacrificing quality, making it an attractive alternative to the microwave, which I don’t own and prefer to avoid. By using the combi oven, I could reheat my meals in a few minutes, enjoying a hot, freshly cooked meal without the drawbacks of microwave reheating.

The Pros and Cons After 30 Days

My 30-day experiment with the combi oven has been enlightening, revealing both its strengths and weaknesses. As I reflect on my experience, I’m excited to share the advantages and disadvantages of this versatile kitchen appliance.

What I Loved About the Combi Oven Experience

The combi oven has been a game-changer in my kitchen, offering unparalleled versatility and cooking quality. The combination of steam and convection cooking has produced superior results for a wide range of foods, from artisan bread to perfectly cooked proteins. I’ve saved time and effort, as the combi oven can perform multiple tasks that would typically require separate appliances, including the microwave.

Some of the key benefits include:

• Versatility in cooking methods and recipes
• Consistent, high-quality cooking results
• Time savings due to the ability to perform multiple cooking tasks simultaneously

Limitations and Challenges I Discovered

Despite its many advantages, the combi oven is not without its drawbacks. One of the main challenges I faced was the installation process, as it required custom cabinetry adjustments. Additionally, the cost of the combi oven is significant, making it a substantial investment for home cooks. I also found the numerous pre-programmed settings to be overwhelming at times, although this did not detract from the overall cooking experience.

Some of the limitations include:

• Size constraints and counter space requirements
• Potential installation challenges, such as custom cabinetry adjustments
• A learning curve due to the numerous pre-programmed settings

In conclusion, while the combi oven presents some challenges, its benefits make it a valuable addition to my kitchen. As I continue to explore its capabilities, I’m confident that it will remain a staple in my cooking routine.

Conclusion: Is a Combi Oven Worth the Investment?

As I conclude my 30-day test, I’m excited to share my final verdict on the combi oven’s value.

This appliance has been a game-changer for my home cooking, especially when it comes to baking bread and cooking proteins. The combi oven’s ability to combine convection and steam cooking has opened up new possibilities in my kitchen.

I highly recommend this appliance to anyone who uses their oven frequently, enjoys slow cooking, or experiments with various cuisines, particularly Asian dishes. Bakers, especially those who bake bread, will find it to be a lot more efficient and effective than traditional ovens.

While it’s a significant investment, I believe the combi oven will be worth it over the years by saving time and improving cooking results. It’s not necessarily a replacement for a conventional oven or microwave, but rather a valuable addition to my cooking arsenal, reducing my reliance on the microwave in a lot of ways.

After 30 days, I’ve decided to keep the combi oven in my home kitchen, as it’s proven to be a versatile and valuable appliance.