A new oven is a significant investment that you should get right, no matter your skill in the kitchen. And if you’re looking for a modern appliance, such as a steam or speed oven, it can be an intimidating search! So what are the differences?
Steam Oven
On the outside, it looks like a regular oven. But unlike your standard convection, a steam oven cooks with, well, steam! Currently most steam ovens are designed with a removable water tank that requires refilling. However, there are advanced models with an inbuilt connection to a water source. What we love:
Cooks delicate foods like custard and seafood on a professional level.
It’s a healthier way of cooking since steam ovens retain most of the essential nutrients and minerals.
Steam ovens warm food evenly, and cooking time is faster.
There is a reduced risk of burning
Steam ovens preserve the food's moisture and taste.
Where it falls short:
Requires frequent maintenance and cleaning
Most models are limited in size
Cannot replace the microwave
Currently, best overall steam ovens on the market are universally accepted to be Miele and Thermador.
Miele: Miele ovens can be either plumbed or non-plumbed. Non-plumbed ovens work great in retro-fit applications and it’s a less expensive option. With plumbed ovens the water intake and drainage is automatic, and the appliance is always ready to be used.
There are also a myriad of other options from this company to be specified as well as combi convection and steam options available.
Thermador: Thermador has the largest capacity options available. They even have steam ranges for even more customization in your kitchen layout.
If you love making your own breads, you will never get over how great an asset the steam option will be!
Speed Oven
Speed ovens are a convection oven, a microwave, or a combination of both components. Its ability to use a microwave in a convection oven quickens the cooking process and maintains food quality. Speed ovens are great options to replace the traditional oven in space challenged urban kitchens!
What we love:
Quick cooking time
Saves kitchen space as it combines two appliances into one
Where it falls short:
Limited space in the internal cavity
High purchase price
My personal picks are the GE Monogram Advantium, and Sharp.
GE Monogram Advantium: The Advantium technology harnesses the power of convection cooking, light, and microwave to cook your food with incredible even-ness while retaining the food’s moisture. it offers speed cooking, convection baking, broiling, toasting, warming, proofing, and traditional microwaving power. While more expensive than a traditional microwave, they do so much more, it is a good choice about where to spend the extra money!
Sharp: The Sharp microwave/convection drawer is another great alternative that offers great bang for the buck and provides easier access in under the cabinet applications as well.
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