When you have a small meal to warm up, it may seem wasteful to turn on your oven. While the standard toaster oven is especially convenient for small items, what about healthier cooking methods?
Cuisinart Combo Steam and Convection Oven has you covered. Williams-Sonoma have these mini-ovens retailing for $299. This small kitchen appliance combines convection technology and steam settings all in one. You may be wondering, why is convection heating all that great? A convection way of heating circulates warm air, resulting in shorter cooking time, even cooking, and enhanced flavor. While this countertop appliance still holds the same conveniences and features as a countertop toaster oven, you even have the capabilities of proofing your own dough for that perfect bread. Steaming quinoa, rice, or veggies no longer has to be a hassle. This attractive combo mini-oven holds a 47-oz. water reservoir and allows you to steam your food for 2 hours uninterrupted. Because of the steam and convection combo, this is a healthy appliance alternative since the cooking methods keep moisture in, allowing you to cook less with oils. Not only can also choose preset options like warm, bread, bake, broil, toast, or steam, but you can choose one-of-a-kind features such as, “bake-with-steam” or “broil-with-steam.” These customized options allow you to get the moist heat and dry heat depending on what you are cooking. Steam-Roasted Parsnips and Carrots By: Williams Sonoma (click here for full recipe) Ingredients: 2 parsnips, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces 2 carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces 3 fresh thyme sprigs 1 Tbs. unsalted butter, melted 1 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste 10 to 15 fresh mint leaves, slivered Zest and juice of 1 lemon
