What Is A Halogen Oven

Table of Contents

What Is A Halogen Oven – Why Are They Becoming So Popular?

[Updated 1 March 2023]In answer to the question what is a halogen oven, visually anyway, they look rather like unearthly giant glass mixing bowls, or maybe a new chic aquarium – but fortunately, looks can be deceptive.

With a UFO saucer-shaped lid that plugs into the wall, these magical ovens can cook a two-course dinner for four with all the trimmings, in two-thirds of the time a conventional oven does.

Sounds Unlikely?

Welcome To The World Of Halogen Ovens!

Countertop halogen ovens truly epitomize the sort of trendy and efficient appliances that start out life being sold mainly on the shopping channels and being given away or offered at half price for buying another product.

But do you know, I think the few of us that have had them for a while must have spread the word because they have really taken off. Of course, lots of appliances get launched, yet don’t stay the course or become a big hit – so the big question is why have these?

Well, these highly versatile ovens do have several inbuilt advantages that might not be initially apparent.

Features

Halogen ovens use halogen bulbs to quickly heat up and cook food up to three times faster than traditional ovens, making meal preparation much more efficient.
Halogen ovens are highly energy efficient, using up to 75% less energy than conventional ovens, helping to reduce electricity bills and carbon footprint.
Halogen ovens have multiple cooking functions, including grilling, roasting, baking, steaming, and even defrosting, providing flexibility in cooking a wide variety of dishes.
Halogen ovens are simple to operate, with easy-to-understand controls and settings. They often come with various accessories, such as baking trays and racks, to make cooking even easier.
Halogen ovens are often compact and lightweight, making them easy to store and move around the kitchen. They are also an excellent option for smaller living spaces or for those who like cooking outdoors or traveling.

Advantages

Can cook everything in one pot.

Cooks much faster-using halogen heating parts and bulbs – halogen technology relies on using the halogen heating elements to convert your electricity into an intense source of heat.

An inbuilt high powered fan circulates the intense heat for faster cooking.

Comparatively small area to heat so faster and cheaper to cook with.

Food is very visible – you can see it throughout the cooking.

You can take the bowl to the table and serve directly out of it.

Fat-free cooking – you don’t add fat to anything.

Simply the best for reheating any pie or pastry.

Food Cooks Beautifully.

Pretty much everything can be cooked in your halogen oven. We really truly don’t use the main oven at all and haven’t since ‘Hal’ as I call mine, arrived. There were a few overcooking incidents until the purchase of a halogen oven cookbook, which my husband kindly bought as a gift….

Disadvantages

It can be quite noisy during operation.
Limited temperature and timing control.
Small food capacity, not suitable for large families or gatherings.
It can’t be easy to clean and maintain.
Limited range of cooking options compared to traditional ovens.
It can consume more energy than a conventional oven.

Perfect Pastry & Garlic Bread

One area this oven scores over everything else I’ve ever used, is in reheating food and especially pastries. The results are superb and very fast.

If you’re in a real hurry and food is from the refrigerator, microwave first to warm, then oven cook for 10 minutes. No more soggy pastry or fruit crumble toppings.

The garlic and herb bread we love (see above) is awesome done in Hal – as is any toast – I know we’d get another just for this alone. Roasted meat and poultry is done to perfection, though in truth I’m more inclined to use the rotisserie oven for bigger joints of beef or lamb.

Halogen Oven Capacity (aka. How Much Can You Cram In It!)

Though compact in anyone’s perception, they vary in size as you would imagine, and are usually sold size wise in quarts of capacity.

In a twelve quart oven you can fit a 5-6lb chicken plus all the potatoes and other root vegetables, and I’d say cooking time will be about 45-60 minutes – but again these ovens do vary, extension rings are covered below, but they add another 2 quarts of cooking area.

For swinging singles or older couples whose family have flown the nest, a smaller capacity oven would likely be big enough, and as there is now a big variety of them. You’ll find they do have significant differences including the price tag.

Points to Consider

Glass bowl halogen ovens are really easy to clean and mostly a wipe around with kitchen spray then a damp cloth is enough. Though manufacturers claim they are self-cleaning – don’t you believe them!

True, you can put water and detergent in then set on ‘wash’. But you still have to empty the water, clean the bits high up where the water doesn’t reach and then empty the dirty water away – and of course, wipe dry. Personally, I’d stick with a wipe around coupled with occasional visits to the dishwasher or sink.

All of which leads nicely to the next point. Whenever they do need a thorough clean, they have to be manhandled (woman handled in most cases) either to the sink or into the dishwasher. Firstly the glass bowl is designed to withstand extremely high temperatures so it’s quite thick, making the bowl a little heavy to transport around if you are in any way frail. Don’t get me wrong, they don’t need a power lifter to move them either.

How big is your sink?

I reckon a good few people have tried and failed to get their oven into the sink for washing. Fine if you do have a dishwasher, a problem if you don’t.

Tip – Never put cold water into the glass bowl right after cooking. They get so hot, cold water can easily cause them to crack.

You also need to consider your dexterity, in that some manipulation of food is required from time to time and tongs work best. Anyone with arthritic hands or similar conditions may not be comfortable with the idea of hovering over very hot food surrounded by sizzling glass. Though I will say that in two years of using my halogen oven almost every day, I’ve never burned myself yet, not even a tiny one – but I’m middle-aged and quite fit.

The Lid

How the oven opens and what you do with the lid when it’s piping hot was my main worry. The reason I bought a halogen oven hinged lid model.

Many ovens where the lid comes right off, come with a stand to rest the lid on, but unbelievably not all of them, leaving you having to think ahead and provide a safe heatproof space. Keep in mind that the lid attaches to the power socket so you can’t take it far without unplugging it first unless you choose one where the cord unplugs from the lid – a few do.

Having got very familiar with using halogen ovens. I wouldn’t now necessarily bother with the hinged lid but would insist on a lid-stand. So overall good advice is to opt for one with a stand provided to hold the lid or go for the hinged lid model and remove the problem entirely.

Halogen Oven Accessories

Do check what’s included in the box in terms of accessories. Some halogen ovens double their capacity by the addition of a wide stainless steel band that balances on top of the glass, the heating element then fits over the ring. This includes the Secura-798dh-Infrared-Turbo-Oven of mine – the back arm holding the lid is extendable. If you click the link you’ll find the full review.

An invaluable accessory is the wire trays, mine are up on legs, meaning you can stack food, even in such a small space. So chops or a roast etc can go on the top, with potatoes or vegetables on the bottom rack or base of the glass oven.

Because the high powered fan circulates hot air so efficiently, you don’t need to move food around. Though I do if I want things crisped or browned at the end of cooking time.

Many of them boast a variety of cooking trays and racks. All of which really do improve the flexibility and cooking capacity. However, unless one is on a special offer, the better-accessorized models usually have a higher price too.

And that’s about it to answer “What is a halogen oven?”, other than to say I wouldn’t part with mine, use it every day and have saved hours in power cost and cooking time. It’s probably the biggest helper and kitchen assistant I’ve got, so yes, I’m a big admirer of these weird looking, turbocharged ovens.

How To Use The Halogen Oven

A halogen oven is a type of small kitchen appliance that uses a halogen bulb to cook food quickly and efficiently. Here are some general steps on how to use a halogen oven:

Preheat the halogen oven by setting the temperature and timer according to the recipe or food you are cooking. The temperature can range from 100°C to 250°C, and the timer can be set up to 60 minutes.
Place the food you want to cook inside the halogen oven, making sure that it is placed on the wire rack or tray with the oven.
Set the temperature and timer according to your cooking recipe or food.
Use the extender ring if your oven comes with one. This will allow you to cook larger items or multiple items at once.
Keep an eye on the food as it cooks. You may need to adjust the temperature or timer if you notice that the food is cooking too quickly or slowly.
When the food is cooked, turn off the halogen oven and carefully remove the food from the oven using oven mitts or a heat-resistant glove.
Clean the halogen oven after each use by wiping it down with a damp cloth. Don’t use abrasive cleaners and scrubbers, as they can damage the oven.

Remember that each halogen oven is different, so be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using your specific model. Also, be cautious when using a halogen oven as it can get very hot and can cause burns if not handled properly.

Things To Take Care of While Using The Halogen Oven

Halogen ovens are countertop appliances that use a halogen bulb to heat and cook food. They are becoming increasingly famous due to their fast cooking times, energy efficiency, and versatility. There are a few things to remember while using a halogen oven to ensure safe and efficient cooking.

Read the instruction manual: Before using a halogen oven, it is essential to read the instruction manual carefully. The manual will provide you with all the necessary information on how to use the oven, what kind of cookware to use, and how to clean it.
Use the right cookware: It is crucial to use the right type of cookware with your halogen oven. Only use oven-safe cookware made of glass, metal, or ceramic. Avoid using plastic cookware or anything with a non-stick coating.
Preheat the oven: Preheating the halogen oven is essential to ensure even cooking. Preheat the oven for at least five minutes before placing the food inside.
Don’t overcrowd the oven: Do not overcrowd the halogen oven with too much food. Leave enough space for the hot air to circulate around the food for even cooking.
Keep an eye on the cooking: Keep an eye on the cooking process and check the food regularly. Unlike a traditional oven, the halogen oven cooks food much faster, and it’s easy to overcook or burn it.
Use oven mitts: Always use oven mitts whenever handling the halogen oven. The oven and the food inside can become extremely hot and can cause burns.
Clean the oven after use: Clean the halogen oven after each use to prevent the build-up of food residue and grease. Please use a damp cloth to wipe the inside and outside of the oven.

By following these simple tips, you can make sure of safe and efficient cooking with your halogen oven.

Factors To Consider While Buying The Halogen Oven

When buying a halogen oven, there are several factors that you should consider to make sure that you get the right one for your needs. Here are the important factors to consider:

Capacity: The size of the oven is an important consideration. A smaller oven may be sufficient for cooking for one or two people, while a larger one may be better suited for larger families or for those who like to entertain.
Wattage: The wattage of the oven will affect its cooking time and efficiency. A higher-wattage oven will generally cook faster and more evenly than a lower-wattage oven.
Controls: Look for an oven that has easy-to-use controls and a clear display. Some models have digital controls that offer precise temperature and cooking time settings, while others have analog controls.
Accessories: Check if the oven comes with any accessories, such as a baking tray, skewers, or a recipe book. These can help you get the most out of your oven.
Price: Halogen ovens are available in a wide range of prices. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and choose a model that fits your budget.
Brand: It’s always a good idea to choose a reputable brand that has a proven track record of quality and reliability. Read reviews and check customer feedback to help you make an informed decision.
Warranty: Finally, look for an oven that comes with a warranty. This can provide peace of mind knowing that you’re protected against any defects or malfunctions.

What Type of Foods Can Be Cooked in a Halogen Oven?

If you have a halogen oven in your kitchen, then there’s no need to limit yourself! This device can prepare anything that can be cooked conventionally in the ordinary oven – from roast potatoes to baked potatoes and beyond – quickly and efficiently.

Meat

A halogen oven is perfect for cooking meats such as chicken, beef, pork, and lamb. It can roast, grill, and even bake meat. The halogen bulbs generate heat that is evenly distributed throughout the oven, resulting in perfectly cooked meat that is moist and tender. You can use the oven for cooking whole chickens, roasts, and even smaller cuts of meat like steaks and chops.

Vegetables

A halogen oven is also great for cooking vegetables. You can roast, grill, or even bake vegetables in a halogen oven. The heat generated by the halogen bulbs ensures that the vegetables are evenly cooked and retain their nutrients. Some of the vegetables that can be cooked in a halogen oven include potatoes, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, and more.

Pizza

Halogen oven can be used to cook pizza as well. You can use a pizza stone and a baking sheet for cooking your pizza. The halogen bulbs generate heat that is perfect for cooking pizza crusts, resulting in a crispy crust that is evenly cooked. You can add your favorite toppings and cheese to create your perfect pizza.

Baked Goods

A halogen oven is also perfect for baking cakes, muffins, bread, and other baked goods. The even heat distribution ensures that the baked goods are cooked evenly and come out moist and delicious. You can use baking tins or trays for baking your goods.

Fish

A halogen oven is perfect for cooking fish as well. You can grill or bake fish in a halogen oven. The even heat distribution ensures that the fish is cooked evenly and retains its moisture. Some of the fish that can be cooked in a halogen oven include salmon, cod, haddock, and more.

French Fries

A halogen oven can also be used to cook French fries. You can cut the potatoes into strips and cook them in the oven. The even heat distribution ensures that the fries are cooked evenly and come out crispy and delicious.

Roasted Nuts

A halogen oven can also be used to roast nuts. In a halogen oven, you can roast almonds, cashews, peanuts, and other nuts. The even heat distribution ensures that the nuts are roasted evenly and come out crispy and delicious.

FAQs

Q1. How does a halogen oven work?

A halogen oven works by using halogen light to generate heat. It is circulated by a fan to cook food quickly and evenly.

Q2. Are halogen ovens safe to use?

Yes, halogen ovens are generally safe to use as long as they are used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Q3. How do I clean a halogen oven?

To clean a halogen oven, you should unplug it and allow it to cool before wiping down the interior and exterior with a damp cloth. You can also remove the glass bowl and wash it in warm soapy water.

Q4. How long does it take to preheat a halogen oven?

Most halogen ovens take between 3 to 5 minutes to preheat.

Q5. Can I use metal utensils in a halogen oven?

No, you should not use metal utensils in a halogen oven as they can scratch the glass bowl and damage the heating element.

Q6. Are halogen ovens more energy efficient than traditional ovens?

Yes, halogen ovens are generally more energy efficient than traditional ovens as they use less electricity and cook food faster.

Q7. Can I bake in a halogen oven?

Yes, you can bake in a halogen oven. In fact, many halogen ovens come with baking trays and racks specifically designed for baking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a halogen oven is a modern appliance that uses a combination of halogen light and convection to cook food quickly and efficiently. It is a versatile and convenient alternative to traditional ovens, as it allows for faster cooking times, uses less energy, and is capable of performing various cooking functions, such as roasting, grilling, and baking. Its compact size and easy-to-use features make it an ideal kitchen gadget for those with limited space or looking to save time and energy. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, a halogen oven is a useful tool to have in your kitchen arsenal.