Why invest in an oven specifically tailored for baking? The advantages are plentiful. Not only can ovens tackle a variety of cooking tasks beyond baking, but they also streamline the cooking process, making meal preparation a breeze. Plus, with options like convection ovens that cook faster and more evenly, you can enjoy energy savings without sacrificing quality.
But with so many options to choose from, how do you find the best oven for your kitchen? Our oven buying guide breaks down the key factors to consider, from fuel type and capacity to design and budget, helping you make an informed decision.
What is an oven?
A bakery oven is a specialized type of oven used primarily in bakeries to bake bread, pastries, cakes, and other baked goods.. It is a hollow chamber that provides a means of heating the chamber in a controlled way to cook food.
Ovens are commonly used for baking various foods such as bread, cakes, pastries, and other baked goods. They provide a consistent and even heat that allows the food to cook thoroughly and develop the desired texture and flavor.
Bakery ovens come in various types, including deck ovens, convection ovens, rotary ovens, and combination ovens. Each type has its own unique features and advantages, catering to different baking needs and and preferences.
Advantages of buying an oven
Here are some key benefits of using an oven:
- Ovens can be used for a wide range of cooking tasks beyond just baking, such as roasting meats, cooking casseroles, and even baking potatoes. They provide a controlled heating environment that allows you to cook or bake what you want.
- Using an oven makes cooking and baking easier. You can put everything in one dish and let the oven do the work, washing fewer dishes afterwards. Ovens also allow you to discover and try new recipes to please your family.
- Ovens enable you to bake a variety of foods like cakes, brownies, and pies. With just a few simple steps like mixing the batter and preheating the oven, you can create delectable homemade desserts.
- Convection ovens in particular can cook food faster than conventional ovens by circulating hot air around the food with a fan. This allows you to shave off up to 1/3 of the cooking time compared to a regular oven.
- The fan in convection ovens helps eliminate hot and cold spots, resulting in more even cooking throughout the oven. This prevents issues like a browned exterior with an undercooked interior.
- Since convection ovens cook food at lower temperatures and in less time, they are more energy efficient than conventional ovens. Using multiple racks also allows you to cook more food at once, saving additional energy.
- Modern ovens come in a variety of stylish designs, colors, and finishes to complement any kitchen decor. Built-in wall ovens in particular offer a sleek, integrated look.
So in summary, ovens provide versatility, convenience, energy savings, and design benefits that make them an invaluable appliance for any kitchen.
Types of oven for sale
There are several types of ovens suitable for baking:
Pizza Ovens
Pizza ovens are designed specifically for baking pizzas at high temperatures, typically around 400°C. They often feature a stone or refractory baking floor and may have a steam injection system for creating a crispy crust.
More on pizza ovens: Pizza Oven Buyer's Guide
Convection Ovens
Convection ovens use a fan to circulate hot air around the food, allowing for faster and more even cooking. They are ideal for baking smaller batches of items like cookies and bread. Some convection ovens allow you to turn off the fan to mimic a conventional oven.
Combi Ovens
Combi ovens, also known as combination ovens, combine convection heat with steam injection. This allows for precise control over temperature and humidity, making them versatile for a wide range of cooking and baking applications.
Steam Convection Ovens
Steam convection ovens provide the benefits of both convection heat and steam injection. They are ideal for baking artisan breads and other baked goods that require a crisp crust and moist interior.
Conveyor Ovens
Conveyor ovens are often used in commercial settings like pizzerias. They feature a continuously moving belt that carries food through the oven, allowing for high-volume production.
Deck Ovens
Deck ovens are designed for baking directly on the oven floor or decks[4]. They are commonly used for baking breads, pizzas, and other baked goods that require direct heat from the bottom.
Ventless Ovens
Ventless ovens are designed to operate without the need for external venting, making them suitable for installation in locations without access to a vent hood. They often incorporate filtration systems to remove smoke and odors.
How do I choose the best commercial oven?
When buying a new commercial oven, there are several key factors to consider:
- Choose between gas, electric, or dual fuel ovens. Gas ovens provide a slightly more humid heat that helps keep baked goods moist, while electric ovens tend to have drier heat ideal for browning and crisping.
- Measure the space in your kitchen carefully to ensure the oven will fit. Consider the capacity needed based on your family size and cooking needs. A 2-person household may only need an oven under 29 liters, while a family of 6 would benefit from over 30 liters.
- Decide between a freestanding range, slide-in range, or wall oven. Convection ovens use a fan to circulate hot air for faster, more even cooking. Self-cleaning options make oven maintenance easier.
- Look for easy-to-use controls, whether analog knobs or digital buttons. Additional features like a clear-view window, interior lighting, and lockout mode can enhance usability and safety.
- Choose a finish that complements your kitchen decor. Stainless steel is a popular, durable option.
- Set a realistic budget and look for the best oven you can afford in that range. Prices can vary widely.
By carefully considering these factors, you can find the best commercial oven to meet your cooking needs and fit your kitchen.
What is the best way to clean an oven?
Cleaning a dirty oven can be a bit of a chore, but there are several effective methods you can use:
- Commercial Oven Cleaners: There are many oven cleaning products available on the market specifically designed to cut through grease and grime. Follow the instructions on the product carefully, usually involving spraying the cleaner, letting it sit for a specified amount of time, and then wiping away the residue with a damp cloth or sponge.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: Make a paste using baking soda and water and spread it over the interior surfaces of the oven, avoiding the heating elements. Let it sit overnight. The next day, spray some vinegar onto the baking soda paste, causing it to foam. Scrub the surfaces with a sponge or cloth, then wipe away the residue.
- Steam Cleaning: Some modern ovens come with a steam cleaning function. This method uses steam to soften baked-on grime, making it easier to wipe away. Follow the instructions in your oven's manual for steam cleaning.
- Manual Scrubbing: For tough stains and baked-on grime, you may need to resort to manual scrubbing. Use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad or brush, along with a mixture of warm water and dish soap, to scrub away the dirt. Rinse thoroughly with clean water afterward.
- Natural Cleaners: If you prefer to avoid harsh chemicals, you can use natural cleaners like lemon juice or vinegar diluted with water. These can help cut through grease and grime effectively.
Regardless of the method you choose, always ensure that the oven is completely cooled before cleaning, and avoid getting water or cleaning solutions near the heating elements to prevent damage. Additionally, always follow safety precautions and ventilation recommendations when using cleaning products in enclosed spaces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the right oven is crucial for any culinary venture, and our oven buying guide has equipped you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
Now, take the next step towards enhancing your kitchen with top-quality equipment from Vancouver Restaurant Supply. With a wide selection of ovens and kitchen essentials, backed by expert guidance and support, they're your go-to destination for all your restaurant and bakery needs.
Don't settle for anything less than perfection in your kitchen—visit Vancouver Restaurant Supply today and elevate your culinary creations to new heights!