1. Preheat the Oven

• Always preheat the oven to the specified temperature before putting food in.

• This is especially important for baked goods like bread, pizza, and pastries to ensure even cooking.

2. Correct Rack Position

• Top rack: Ideal if you want the top of the food to brown quickly.

• Middle rack: Best for most recipes, ensures even cooking.

• Bottom rack: Perfect for foods that need a crispy base, like pizza or bread.

3. Oven Dish Material

• Glass and ceramic dishes heat slowly, so cooking time may be slightly longer.

• Metal pans conduct heat quickly, giving a crispier bottom.

• When using aluminum foil, avoid direct contact with the food to ensure even cooking.

4. Moisture and Covering

• Cover dishes with foil or lids to prevent drying, especially for casseroles or roasts.

• For crispy dishes like pizza or pastries, adjust oven temperature instead of covering to control browning.

5. Temperature and Time Settings

• Follow the recipe’s recommended temperature and cooking time, but adjust slightly for your oven type.

• Gas ovens may run hotter; electric ovens may need a few extra minutes.

6. Avoid Opening the Oven Frequently

• Opening the oven door frequently causes heat loss, extending cooking time.

• This can affect the rise of baked goods like cakes or bread.

7. Grill and Fan Functions

• Fan (convection) mode: Circulates hot air for even cooking.

• Grill function: Use for browning the top of dishes.

• Fan + heat: Speeds up cooking, ideal for large meats or oven bags.

8. Marinating and Greasing

• Marinating meat and vegetables enhances flavor and prevents drying.

• Lightly grease pans to prevent sticking and make cleaning easier.

9. Resting After Cooking

• Let meat and some baked goods rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven.

• This allows internal heat to equalize and improves flavor and texture.

? Summary:

• Preheat, choose the right rack, use suitable cookware, and adjust temperature for the best results.

• Minimize opening the oven, use fan and grill functions wisely, and allow resting for optimal flavor.

Preheat, choose the right rack, use suitable cookware, and adjust temperature for the best results.