The oven is that big, mysterious box in your kitchen that can turn simple ingredients into mouthwatering meals and delicious desserts. But if you’re new to cooking, using an oven might seem a bit intimidating. With a few basic tips and tricks, however, you’ll be baking like a pro in no time.
Getting to Know Your Oven
Every oven is different, so it’s important to get to know yours. Read the manual and familiarize yourself with the controls. For instance, you should know if it has different settings, such as bake, broil, and convection. Understanding the features of your oven will help you use it effectively and safely.
If you don’t have a user manual because you procured your appliance second hand or moved into a house that already had appliances there, speak with a professional. Those who specialize in appliance maintenance and repair will be in the best position to provide you with some guidance.
Make Sure to Preheat
Preheating is critical for baking success. This is because it ensures that your oven reaches the correct temperature before you put your food in. This helps your food cook evenly and prevents it from sticking or burning. Think of what would happen when putting cookies in a cold oven; they would spread out too much and become flat and crispy. Most ovens take about 10-15 minutes to preheat, but it’s always best to check the manual or use an oven thermometer to be sure.
Rack It Up
The position of your oven rack can affect how your food cooks. For most baking, you’ll want to use the middle rack. This allows for even heat distribution and prevents the top or bottom of your food from burning. However, if you’re broiling something, you’ll want to move the rack closer to the top heating element. This will help your food get that nice, crispy brown top.
Don’t Peek
It’s tempting to open the oven door and peek at your creation, but resist the urge. Every time you open the door, heat escapes, and then the temperature inside the oven drops. This can affect your baking time and even cause your food to cook unevenly. If you need to check on your food, use the oven light or peek through the window if your oven has one.
Be Careful With Hot Stuff
Always use oven mitts or potholders when handling hot dishes. Ovens get extremely hot, and you don’t want to burn yourself.
Clean Up Your Act
Keep your oven clean to prevent food buildup and ensure it’s working properly. Wipe up spills and splatters as soon as they happen. You can also use the self-cleaning function if your oven has one.
With these basic tips, you’ll be well on your way to using your oven like a pro. So, go ahead and experiment with different recipes and have fun creating delicious meals and treats in your kitchen. For additional tips for using stoves and ovens in your Olathe, KS home, consult with our appliance specialists at Hotshot Appliance.
