Table-top halogen ovens

Raksha

Be aware, the lids are cumbersome, especially when still plugged in (unless you get a hinged lid model which i would recommend). They self clean function doesn't do anything bar warm the water, the base will need a scrub at least, although you can limit this will careful use of kitchen foil.
I actually tripped over while trying to find clear worktop space for my lid a few weeks ago

jellybubble

Thank you for your reply.

I just read somewhere that you need to turn the food a lot as well. For my needs a mini table top conventional oven might be better. (I know they are a very different thing.)

But I think it would be easier for me to use than a halogen or my main oven. It would be at table top height so better to reach than my main one and being a smaller size should still save on electricity.

Niblet

Hi there,

Not sure where else to post this so hope I'm in the right place! I recently moved into a bedsit and I've bought myself a Cookworks halogen oven from Argos, because I can't bear to be without an oven and I hate microwaves. I read such amazing things about them... but even though I am a very competent cook I can't seem to get the knack. I don't find that they cook faster, but I do find that it strangely manages to make most things a little crispy on the edges (or burned) and rather soggy elsewhere. Is there some wonderful technique I need to learn? Please share your experiences I really want it to be a success!
Thanks in advance!

joedenise

Not sure I can really help because I haven't got that particular halogen oven but I find things usually need to be moved around or turned over about halfway through cooking. I too don't find it cooks faster than a normal oven. I usually cook things in dishes or on a small baking tray so I think that helps a bit with heating from underneath IYKWIM.

Denise

MrsJ2008

If you have a couple of racks move your food to the lower rack (if getting crispy) or turn the temperate down a little. Ours was never used until our main oven broke and now i'd never be without the little powerhouse ;0)

[Deleted User]

I had one and I hated the thing, sold it and brought a panasonic combi microwave, brilliant. I rarely use the main oven on the cooker and I can cook a 1.3kg in 45 minutes. While that is standing before I carve it the roast potato and stuffing cook in 30 minutes.

jpscloud

I don't have a full size cooker - I use a halogen with a microwave, a slow cooker and (rarely) a portable hob.

The best way to use a halogen is as a high power fan assisted grill - if you have an extender ring with yours, that does make a difference when cooking meat etc.

My best advice is do meat in a slow cooker, and any casseroles/stews/bolognaise/chilli type stuff.

I found pizza less easy in the halogen, but switched to baguette style ones, which do great.

It takes a bit of getting used to, but a halogen really is a great piece of kit if you persevere.

Justamum

There's a long thread here which might have advice https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/978783

Jnelhams

They are good, practice by cooking a slice of toast in it to see what difference the fan speeds and tray heights make to how the toast browns.
Somethings do cook quicker, but others like Potatoes don't unless you microwave them first and then brush them with a little olive oil and pop in the halogen for 15-20 mins.

Jnelhams

No smaller is going to quickly prove a pain when you decide to roast a chicken or make bread. I would try to buy one of the ones that have a hinged lid rather than the normal removable lid types as those lids stands can be a real pain in the neck. The self clean is a bit of a misnomer as you still have to empty it ! but it does at least loosen any backed on dirt.