What is a combi oven?

A combi oven, also known as a combination oven or combi steamer, is a versatile cooking appliance that combines the functionality of a convection oven, a steam oven, and sometimes a grill or microwave. It is commonly used in commercial kitchens but is also increasingly popular in residential settings.

The main advantage of a combi oven is its ability to cook food using different methods, providing chefs with a wide range of cooking options. It can be used for baking, roasting, grilling, steaming, poaching, and even sous vide cooking. This versatility makes it a valuable tool in professional kitchens where different cooking techniques are required for different dishes.

Combi ovens use both dry heat and steam to cook food, which allows for precise temperature and humidity control. The combination of moist heat from the steam and hot air from the convection element creates a cooking environment that is ideal for many types of dishes. The steam helps to keep food moist, enhances flavor, and prevents drying out, while the convection heat provides even and efficient cooking.

These ovens often come with programmable controls, allowing chefs to set specific cooking parameters such as temperature, time, and humidity levels. This ensures consistent results and reduces the risk of overcooking or undercooking.

Combi ovens can be powered by gas, electricity, or a combination of both. They come in different sizes and configurations to fit the needs of various kitchen setups. Some models even offer advanced features like automatic cleaning systems, touchscreen interfaces, and multiple cooking stages.

In addition to commercial kitchens, combi ovens are commonly used in bakeries, hotels, restaurants, and catering services due to their versatility, efficiency, and ability to handle high cooking volumes. They are also increasingly popular among home chefs who want to recreate professional cooking techniques and achieve restaurant-quality results in their own kitchens.

Overall, a combi oven is a versatile and efficient cooking appliance that combines the benefits of steam cooking and convection heating. It provides chefs and home cooks with a wide range of cooking options, precise temperature control, and the ability to cook large quantities of food consistently.