Halogen Ovens

Halogen Ovens based cooking is becoming increasingly popular among the house hold of the UK. The simplicity, less power consumption, uniform and quick cooking makes it an ideal kitchen partner to be trusted. We have a wide assortment of halogen ovens that vary in the price range, capacity and usability range. The halogen ovens are a much cheaper investment when compared against the conventional or micro wave ovens. We have listed some of the best, affordable, cheap, and at the same time quality halogen ovens from various suppliers.

The Technology Behind Halogen Oven

The halogen ovens have smashed the myth of how an oven must be. The shape, technology, the cooking time and the efficiency are revamped in the halogen oven. It is structured in the form of a glass bowl enclosed with a lid. The oven is integrated with the halogen bulb and a fan. The operating procedure is very simple. Once when the oven is packed with the food to be cooked, we need to connect the oven to the electric source. Energy conversion occurs, wherein the electrical energy heats the halogen bulb thereby producing intense infra red radiation or in other words the heat. The heat energy thus produced is dissipated uniformly by the circulating fan fitted inside. Uniform transfer of heat cooks the food in a very efficient manner. The glass container and the lid are so constructed in a manner that keeps a good check on the temperature. Though it looks fragile, it is sturdy to withstand a good range of temperature and usage.

The Benefits of Halogen Oven over MicroWave Oven

Halogen oven has revolutionised the concept of compact cooking. One of the notable drawbacks of the microwave oven is the build. Though it does not occupy a great deal of space, the oven's portability is not highly consumer friendly. On the other hand, the halogen ovens due to its trimmed shape resembles to that of any container in the kitchen, it can be readily relocated. The cooking need not be confined just to the kitchen. Another characteristic feature of halogen oven is the uniform heating. Microwave oven tends to migrate the moisture to the food surface. As a result, the extent of crust formation is restricted. The halogen ovens on the other side can cook food in the crispiness as intended. Moreover, the energy consumption in halogen oven is less when compared to that of the micro wave oven. The cooking times also show reasonable differences with the halogen ovens performing quickly.

Types of Halogen Ovens

Most of the halogen ovens are multifunctional doing the job of grilling, roasting, baking, and frying. However, it can be broadly classified based on the capacity, construction material and the heat ranges. It still can be sub-classified depending on the number of racks available. Roughly the halogen oven can cook anything and though it appears small, the quantity it can hold is appreciable. The capacity ranges from 7 litres to 12 litres. However with the usage of rings provided the capacity can be extended in some models. A cusp model of micro wave and halogen oven is available. It combines the best of both the worlds.

Advantages of Halogen Ovens

Oven Design

First and foremost, the halogen oven's structural resemblance to that of the glass bowl appears remarkably aesthetic. Due to its transparent body, many can get an idea of how well the item is cooked and can savor the sight of the raw materials getting turned to greatest delicacies. Though we overlook this concept in the oven, many can just look at the food and say whether it would be cooked well or is it a disaster.

Allows a Wide Range of Cooking Methods

The halogen oven can do various functions similar to that of the microwave oven. The thaw heating to defrost the food is also available. It can roast; fry, grill, bake, beard toast and even the steam functions are available. The underlying concept is healthy cooking with out any oil supplements.

Maintenance

The regular maintaience when compared to the micro wave oven is significantly less. Since most of the halogen ovens are equipped with the self cleaning mechanism, the cleaning part is less hassle free, especially during the rush hours. Nevertheless it does not elude the user to do the normal cleaning process that would keep any electrical appliance in a good condition for a long time.

Operational effectiveness

The overall heating efficiency is high due to the simple fact that heat is uniformly distributed. The fan circulates the infrared radiation and the compact structure takes care that the heat is well circulated, thereby cooking the food thoroughly. However, care must be taken not to retain the food in the oven for a long time, as moisture condensation will occur.

Energy Efficiency Halogen Ovens

Power consumption limit of the Halogen Oven

The power efficiency is really appreciated in halogen oven. The electricity consumption can be controlled to the extent of 50 % lesser than the conventional ovens. Hence purchasing the halogen oven can prove a cost cutting measure to the financial budget.

What is the cooking period roughly taken?

A maximum of 60 to 70 minutes is required to cook depending on the type of food. Moreover the cooking time might extend or decrease depending on the weight of the food and the type. At the same time, care must be taken not to cook it for a longer period as done in conventional ovens. For beginners, a fork can be pierced in the meat to check the uncooked portion. Inserting a thermometer will also help to solve any ambiguities with respect to temperature. The cooking using the halogen oven must be acquainted over a period of time, because the food is cooked faster than expected, but eventually can churn out tasty dishes though practise.

Usage Flexibility

Does it demand any constant supervision?

No not all. Prior to the cooking process the oven must be set to the desired temperature and the cooking time. More or less, most of the manufacturers give cooking period guidelines wherein the temperature and the time for various varieties are mentioned. Once the oven attains the set timer, it turns off automatically. However, for extremely newer users, it is advisable to get used with the cooking methodology of the halogen oven so as to get the food in the right condition.

Service and Maintenance

Can the Halogen oven be serviced in case of any malfunctions?

Like any other electric appliance the halogen oven has a good durability when used as advised by the manufacturers. All the same, the parts that malfunction include the fuse, the main plug and the halogen bulb. But replacement parts must adhere to the quality of the materials as specified by the makers is recommended. In case of halogen bulb malfunction, free replacement is carried by many of the companies if it is under the warranty period. In some cases, outlets are provided to get the repair done. In most of the cases, the solutions can be solved with minimum anxiety, because it can be easily carried to the service centre.

What is the preventive maintenance measures involved in the halogen Oven?

The preventive measures to prolong the durability of the halogen oven are mentioned below;

• The glass lid must not be exposed be cold water immediately after the cooking process. This can cause the lid to either crack or break.
• Most of the halogen ovens are fitted with self cleaning washing system. But at the same time, avoid using abrasive material on the surface of the bowl. Using clean cloth is always better
• The glass lid is must never be kept adjacent to flammable or readily combustible items. It could spoil the lid.

Are the spare parts and accessories readily available?

Yes the accessories such as the cooking racks, tongs, lid holder and extender rings are readily supplied by the manufacturers. But some levy an extra charge for such accessories and in some cases it is given along with the halogen oven. The spare parts can be easily purchased from the manufacturer.

Safety Parameters

What can be cooked in the Halogen Oven?

Almost everything that is cooked in the conventional oven and the micro wave oven can be cooked, baked, grilled in the halogen oven. The technology is not based on any harmful radiations, yet too much of charring the food is harmful to health which is applicable for any cooking.

What are the Safety parameters of the Halogen Oven?

There are several nitty gritty parameters that have to be ensured while handling the oven. But over a period of time, one would get used to it. A few have been listed below,

1. The apt cooking rack has to be placed inside the bowl
2. The halogen oven must be placed on a heat-proof base
3. Care must be taken to check the power cord not touching anything hot
4. The cookware items as used in the conventional oven can be used here too, and must not use anything besides that

Does any form of food degradation occur using the Halogen Oven?

As such when the food is taken out once the cooking time is reached, food degradation can be avoided. But the food is susceptible to moisture accumulation when it is left in the halogen over for a long time. It must be immediately removed from the oven and served hot. Otherwise, the crispiness is lost especially with respect to roast items.

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