Oven Use
Converting Recipes to Convection Baking
Low sided baking utensils will give the best results as the hot air can reach all sides of the food easier.The oven temperature can be left the same as the recipe and the food cooked a shorter period of time.The temperature can be lowered 25ºF to 50ºF and the food will probably take the same length of time to cook as the recipe states. If you find that food is adequately browned on the outside, but not done in the center, lower the temperature another 25ºF and add to the baking time.When reducing the temperature always check the food for doneness, a minute or two before the minimum time stated in the recipe, as time can always be added. Some recipes will cook faster then others.There is no way to predict exactly how long each recipe will take when you convert it to convection. Convection will be easier to use after you have used it a few times as you will begin to understand the way it bakes.
Selecting Utensils for Convection Baking
Cooking by convection does not require any specially designed baking utensils.You probably have many utensils in your kitchen that are suitable to use.When choosing a baking utensil, consider the material, the size and the shape as they all affect the baking time, the palatability and the appearance of the finished product.
Metal bakeware (aluminum, steel and cast iron) all result in the fastest cooking time and the best end product. Aluminum pans work best for all types of baked goods. For the best browning, use a pan with a dark or dull finish that absorbs heat, when baking pies and breads. A shiny finish works best for cakes and cookies, since it reflects some of the heat and provides a more tender surface. Cookie sheets with only one lip will give the best results, as the heated air can circulate all around the sides of the food. For roasting use the bottom of the broil pan and elevate the meat on a metal roasting rack.
Baked items cook more quickly and evenly if they are individually smaller in size, i.e. two or three small foods do better than one large piece.When single food items are baked, always center the food on the rack. If several foods are being baked, space them evenly on the rack or racks.
TO SET THE OVEN FOR BAKING
Decide if you are going to use BAKE or CONVECTION BAKE.These cooking modes are for baking, roasting or warming using one, two, three or four racks. If you are going to use regular Bake push the Bake Switch (located on the Control Panel) and turn the oven control knob to the temperature used in the recipe.To use Convection Bake push the Convection Switch (located on the control Panel) and turn the oven control knob to the temperature desired.
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