In the ever-evolving world of professional cuisine, the introduction of innovative equipment has revolutionised the way we cook. Among these advancements, commercial combi ovens and steamers stand out as a quintessential component in modern professional kitchens. These multifaceted appliances have redefined efficiency and versatility in cooking, making them indispensable in commercial catering.
What is a Combination Oven/Combi Steamer?
A combination oven, commonly referred to as a combi steamer, is a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a convection oven and a steam cooker. This dual functionality allows chefs to steam, grill, bake, roast, sauté and fry with a single piece of equipment. The key lies in its ability to precisely control both temperature and humidity, offering unparalleled control over the cooking process. Learn how combination ovens have evolved since their creation to understand exactly how far the technology has advanced in a relatively short period of time.
The Technology Behind Combi Ovens
Combi steamers use a sophisticated blend of steam and convection cooking. The steam aspect provides moist heat, which is ideal for retaining the natural flavours, nutrients, and colours of food. This is particularly beneficial for delicate items like vegetables and seafood, which require gentle cooking. On the other hand, the convection mode circulates dry heat, perfect for achieving a crispy texture in baked goods and roasted meats.
The true brilliance of combi steamers lies in their ability to seamlessly switch between these two cooking modes or even combine them. This hybrid cooking technique enables chefs to achieve a variety of textures and flavours that would typically require multiple appliances.
Capable of performing multiple cooking techniques, combination ovens can amalgamate multiple types of catering equipment into a single appliance for ultimate convenience, space saving and cooking versatility.
Grilling: While traditional grilling is done over an open flame, combi ovens simulate this effect through high-temperature convection heating. The intense, dry heat creates a similar sear and char as a grill.
Baking: The convection mode provides even, dry heat necessary for baking. It ensures that baked goods rise properly and have a uniform texture and colouration.
Roasting: Combining convection heat with a controlled amount of steam allows for perfect roasting. The dry heat creates a crispy exterior, while the steam ensures the interior remains moist.
Frying: Although combi ovens don't fry in the traditional sense, they can mimic the effects of frying. By using high-heat convection cooking combined with an injection of steam, foods can achieve a similar crispy exterior as they would through frying.
Steaming: The steam mode in a combi oven is ideal for steaming foods. It maintains the right level of humidity and temperature, preserving the food's moisture, texture, and nutrients.
Other Cooking Results: Precise temperature and humidity controls allow for slow cooking, dehydrating, proofing dough, and even sous-vide style cooking when used with appropriate containers.
Why are Combi Steamers Essential to Modern Professional Kitchens?
The versatility of combi steamers makes them an invaluable asset in commercial kitchens. Their multifunctionality not only saves space by reducing the need for multiple appliances but also enhances workflow efficiency. Chefs can switch between cooking modes with ease, ensuring optimal results for every dish.
Moreover, combi steamers are designed for consistency and precision, crucial in a professional setting where every dish must meet high standards. The ability to control humidity and temperature with precision means that recipes can be replicated perfectly, every time.
In addition to their cooking prowess, combi steamers are also champions of energy efficiency. By consolidating multiple cooking processes into one appliance, they reduce energy consumption, which is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly.
Catering to a Diverse Menu
Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of combi steamers is their ability to cater to a diverse range of menu items. From steaming vegetables to roasting large cuts of meat and baking delicate pastries, these ovens handle it all. This versatility makes them particularly valuable in commercial kitchens where menu diversity is key to attracting a broad customer base. Combination ovens and steamers are a substantial investment for businesses, yet represent a key piece of equipment for smooth service and consistent, repeatable results. Our Comprehensive Combination Oven Buying Guide explains the intricacies of commercial combi ovens and the features to look out for when choosing the right equipment.
Combi steamers represent the pinnacle of modern cooking technology, offering versatility, efficiency, and precision in a single appliance. Their ability to combine steam and convection cooking makes them indispensable in professional kitchens, where quality, consistency, and efficiency are paramount. Whether it’s for grilling, baking, roasting, or sautéing, combi steamers deliver optimal cooking results, solidifying their status as a cornerstone of modern commercial catering equipment.