How much space do I need for a convection microwave? You can also combine functions – such as roast or grill – with the microwave function, to speed up the cooking time. This quick preheat means they are also cheaper to run than standard ovens, so they can offer considerable savings on energy costs. The upside is that they are great for reheating pre-cooked pastries and pizzas, as they can reach a high temperature in a short time – but many only have a maximum temperature of 200☌. Some models come with a crisp plate, which is designed to heat food from below, but your food is restricted to the size of the crisp plate.Ĭonvection microwave ovens are ideal for smaller spaces, such as kitchenettes, caravans, campervans, holiday homes and granny flats 'Because it doesn't have a base element,' explains Fiona, 'results are not great for browning and crisping pastries and pizzas on the bottom'. What if you're cooking pizza or pastry from scratch? If you're cooking large volumes, such as a Sunday roast with multiple roasting trays of meat and veggies, you'll still need to use a regular oven as a convection microwave oven can't do multiple shelf cooking.īut if you're cooking smaller quantities on a single tray, you can combine cooking functions such as convection and grill for browning meat and roasting vegetables. They would also suit people living on their own who are cooking smaller quantities of food, or they can be useful for a large family that needs extra oven space.Īnd good news if you always have hungry kids prowling around the house: 'They're also great for teenagers who like a hot afternoon snack, as they're easy to operate and heat up more quickly than conventional ovens,' suggests Fiona.Ĭan a convection microwave replace an oven? You can also use it in combination mode, which combines the microwave with either the bake or grill functions to reduce the cooking time,' she says.īecause they are smaller than conventional ovens, convection microwave ovens are ideal for smaller spaces, such as kitchenettes, caravans, campervans, holiday homes and granny flats. Because of this, it can be used as a microwave, an oven, or a grill. 'A convection microwave has an element and a fan, as well as a top element for grilling. But are convection microwaves worth the money? CHOICE kitchen appliance expert and home economist, Fiona Mair, says they are a useful, versatile appliance. What do you get when a regular microwave morphs with a benchtop oven? Convection microwaves allow you to steam, reheat and cook food, just like a microwave, but you can also use them for browning and crisping – functions you'd usually need an oven or grill for.Īll this in a unit that's smaller than an oven and can sit on your benchtop.

Microwave air fryer