Showing posts with label oven. Show all posts
Showing posts with label oven. Show all posts

10/23/2010

Dacor Convection Microwave Review

Dacor Convection MicrowaveIn late September of 2007 I purchased a DCM24 Convection Microwave oven for $550 and had it built in which cost more than the DCM24.I had 5 problems with this appliance with the most serious being its durability: 1) Popcorn and other things cannot be cooked without inverting a glass dish on the turntable otherwise the microwave worked fine, but the same cannot be said for the convection oven;2) When cooking with convection it has a strong fan that circulates the heat around the oven, but it also circulates the smells from the oven all over the house; 3) It was a mess to clean the inside of the oven after cooking meat and other items (other than baking breads)with convection; 4) When cooking meat and casseroles, it took much longer than the cookbook predicted time, but I will say that it did a good job baking rolls and muffins; 5)MOST IMPORTANTLY when it was 22 months old it DIED: the only things that worked were the light and the fan.I called a Dacor appliance repairman and they took it in to the shop to diagnose the problem.Several days later I was told that it would cost $355 to have it repaired. I told them that they could keep it.I will purchase a Sharp microwave - I've had 2 of them that lasted for over 10 years, and an Oster toaster oven for a small convection oven.

N. L. Olsen

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Product Description:
Dacor Convection Microwave - DCM24BK. 1.5 Cubic Foot Capacity. 900 Watts. Sensor Modes. Allows Convection, Broiling, And Combination Roasting And Baking. Auto-Defrost. Built-In Or Counter Top Installation. Black Finish

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10/21/2010

Sharp SuperSteam Microwave Oven Review

Sharp SuperSteam Microwave OvenFirst off this is a VERY attractive appliance.The picture on the website does not do it justice, as weird as that may seem.It is substancial, well built, and looks and feels like something from a professional kitchen.Even though the measurements are documented, the oven just seems bigger.Personally, I think it's too big for a counter and would be best mounted into a unit.There could be some problems with mounting because you absolutely DO need the recommended space above, behind and to the sides - you can't get away with putting it up against anything if you plan on using the steam feature.

Good things:
The convention over works exactly as it should - I made a cake and it came out super-fluffy and perfectly cooked in and out, and very moist.Also made a sandwich and the bread was nice and crispy and the tomatoes inside were perfectly cooked.I made two chickens - one with the steam and one without.Both were good, but the one with the steam did get brown (lightly) and looked better, although they both tasted great and moist.

Microwave works fine.Downside is that there is no spinning wheel, so you have to stir and flip things around - AND - the microwave keeps stopping to tell you to do that.A bit annoying.

Although the job wheel feels very expensive and all the options are laid out well - I would prefer some buttons, espcially with the microwave.You can't just pop something in and start nuking.YOu have to press the microwave button and then use the wheel to go down one selection and then press enter and then use the wheel to spin to a time and then you can finally hit start.They should have moved that up one level to make it faster.

You get several well built pans and racks with this, which is very nice bonus.

The instructions are overwhelming, but when you actually go to use the oven, it makes sense.

Putting the water in for the steam function is very easy - a little box/cup thing comes out, you fill it and put it back in.done.

The auto sense microwave warming part works really well.I always want to doubt that it will work, but it actually does.

Overall it's a very intelligent unit, looks gorgeous and can completely replace your oven and microwave.Downside is that interface, which although it is slick, I don't much care for it and seems to require more thought than I care to put into microwaving something.

I would give it 4.5 stars because of that - but really it's a very nice oven.

One more thing - oddly enough, it does not put out excessive amounts of heat compared to your regular oven.You can open it during cooking and not get blasted by heat (although you should be careful).And cooking the chickens didn't heat up my whole kitchen or apartment like the oven usually does.The steam will kick up the humidity, but not that much.

Update - I wanted to add that I made a Flan recently and it came out perfectly.Usually I make it in a regular oven in a water bath.I skipped the water bath and just put it into the Sharp and chose convection oven - it came out perfectly cooked from edges to the middle!Anyone who has made a Flan will know how hard it is to get the center to cook correctly without overdoing the sides.I was pretty happy with this.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sharp SuperSteam Microwave Oven

Product Description:
Sharp's new SuperSteam Oven offers a unique combination of the healthiest ways to cook, all in one versatile appliance: SuperSteam Convection, Steam, Convection and Microwave. SuperSteam Convection is a combination of two types of cooking: superheated steam and convection heat. Sharp uses state-of-the-art technology to superheat steam. Unlike conventional steam, superheated steam helps brown and crisp foods on the outside, while adding moisture to the inside. When combined with convection cooking, the results are exceptional. Foods that are good for you look and taste better than you ever expected. The AX-1200S can also be used for traditional steaming, for microwave cooking or as a convection oven for baking or roasting.

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9/16/2010

KitchenAid Architect Series II : KEMS378SSS 27in Microwave Combination Wall Oven - Stainless Steel Review

KitchenAid Architect Series II : KEMS378SSS 27in Microwave Combination Wall Oven - Stainless SteelWe purchased this in March of 2009. It came with the following:Turntable, Convection grid, Crisper pan & handle, baking tray and steamer vessel.

There are so many features in here that I don't think I've used everything.
First, the Convection Microwave Oven:
De-Frost - I'm not a big menu planner so defrosting before I cook has to work quickly and efficiently for me. Apart from the usual cooking power options (High 100%, 90%, 80% etc) I can choose from Meats, Poultry, Fish, Bread, Juice & Manual. The microwave calculates the defrosting time based on the weight that I input. The manual has guidelines and pound to kilogram conversions.

Re-Heat - The options include Dinner Plate, Sauce, Soup, Pizza, Casserole, Beverage and Manual. The microwave bases the reheating on how many cups of sauce/soup/casserole/beverage is inputed and the number of slices of pizza. For example, I want to heat a cup of coffee. (Ghastly to some, I know, but I've done it) The microwave will ask you how many cups and whether you want it warm or hot. Simple & easy.

Manual Cooking - Just input the cooking power and the cooking time and you're all set!

Popcorn - Works like in other microwave ovens. Pop it based on the bag size.

Steam Cooking - The vessel comes in 3 parts: the cover, the food holder and the water container and they all fit together. I've steamed fresh vegetables, frozen vegetables and a lot of dim sum. They've all been delicious. The options are Potatoes, Fresh Vegetables, Frozen Vegetables,, Fish fillets, Shrimp & Manual. Again, the microwave calculates the cooking times on how many cups and how many ounces. The steaming vessel is dishwasher safe.

Soften/Melt - The options are Margarine, Ice Cream, Cream cheese and the softening/melting time is based on how many sticks and ounces you have. We love to bake and we have a fondness for ice cream cakes so this has been so useful.

Crisper Pan Frying - This is the one feature that I've only tried a couple of times. I still like to use the old frying pan, I'll admit. I followed the guide in the manual and made an omelet.

Timer - I use this mostly when I'm making pasta on the stove top. I can have this running while the oven is cooking something else.

The Microwave converts to a Convection oven/Easy Convect. I just put the grid on the turntable. I've done smaller amounts of cookies, some chicken, baked potatoes and french fries this way.

The bottom part of this oven is the Electric Convection Oven. In "traditional" oven mode I can choose from Bake, Broil & Bread Proof. In convection mode, there's Bake, Broil & Roast. Just to give me something else to think about there's also an EasyConvect option. There's also the Options key that does the fahreinheit & celsius conversion, turns the sound on/off/high/low, dehydrates,oven temperature calibration, Sabbath mode and turn the turntable on/off.

To clean, I turn on the Self Clean Mode, choose the number of hours I want and wipe down when it's cool. The manual advises against using commercial oven cleaners.

Again, so many features. The bottom line is I've been very happy with this oven. It replaced an ancient GE that came with our house. A lot of thought went into this purchase since we also had to hire someone to chip away at a brick wall that also housed a fireplace that we wanted to keep. I chose this oven because of the brand, the stainless steel, its size & features and because I wanted the microwave oven off my counter. Notice that I mention the manual quite a bit. It has a lot of information!

Highly recommended.

Click Here to see more reviews about: KitchenAid Architect Series II : KEMS378SSS 27in Microwave Combination Wall Oven - Stainless Steel

Product Description:
- Microwave Oven Features- Convection cooking provides more even results in less time- EasyConvect Time and Temperature Conversion System takes the guesswork out of convection cooking- Custom reheat and custom defrost functions- Soften and melt cycles- Steam cook cycle including steam container- Easy minute control adds time in one-minute increments- CrispWave Technology provides grilling, frying, and convection cooking options- Oven Features- Even-Heat True Convection System provides even heating throughout oven- EasyConvect Time & Temperature Conversion System- Conventional thermal cooking with two-element balanced baking and roasting- High-speed, adjustable broiling performance for large or small quantities- Closed-Door Convection Broil with Full & Center Settings- True-Broil Reflector concentrates heat for optimum broiling- Enhanced self-clean cycle includes an energy-saving quick setting- Removable temperature probe accurately measures internal temperature of meats, poultry, and liquid-based casseroles- Proof bread without needing a bread maker- Dehydrate fruits and vegetables for fresh taste throughout the year- Hefty Slide-Out Racks with Handles- SatinGlide Roll-Out Extension Rack with Handle- 2 Halogen oven lights allow a more natural view of cooking progress- Blue-Enameled Cavity- Large window provides a wide, full view of all three racks- Full glass inner door provides easy clean-up and sleek look- Beveled edges create a soft, integrated look with surrounding cabinets- Oven & Microwave Oven Features- Certified by STAR-K KOSHER CERTIFICATION- Responsive glass-touch oven display with lockout- Architect Series II styling

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8/23/2010

.6 Cf Rotary Microwave Review

.6 Cf Rotary MicrowaveWe were looking for a microwave for a dorm. Had to be 600 watts. Very hard to find. This has controls on the front which is important for ease of use. Found 20 sellers on Amazon but only one had the microwave in stock. It arrived in perfect condition. Advice is to look early.

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Product Description:
The 0. 6 cu ft Microwave uses 600-watts of power, and has 6 power levels and 2 rotary selector knobs. Your food will be perfectly cooked every time! Additional features include: 2 rotary selector knobs, removable glass turntable, time defrost, end-of-cycle signal, and pull handle design

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8/08/2010

R-820BW Microwave Oven Review

R-820BW Microwave OvenI have to say, this is a great product!
As a microwave it works fine, What I liked best was the convection feature.
I would rather manual time my food to my liking instead of using the preset compucook features.

My advise is to follow your normal cookingtimes for items you cook often in a regular oven, just reduce the temperature by 25 degrees.

example:
If you like chicken breast that are frozen(no need to thaw)
Place them in a Pyrex dish add seasoning of your choice..garlic, oregano, onions, etc.
a little olive oil or oil of choice.

chose the convection button, then press 1 for preheating oven. normal cook temperature would be 375 degrees for 40-45 min. Just set temp. at 350

The oven will preheat( be patient)takes about 3 min. the oven will beep when ready. (if you forget don't worry it will stop on it's own if you do not respond within 20 min or so.)
Place frozen chicken in along with seasoning.

Then go relax! No need to worry about burning if you forget!!
If you want it browned a little more use the add minute feature before it finishes.

Biscuits come out great! evenly browned to perfection..I used to make them a lighter brown because I was always afraid I would forget about them and burn them.
( those last few minutes in a normal oven browns fast)
But it turns off by it's self so don't worry, just write down the time you like best and it will come out the same every time.

This convection microwave is perfect if you are a busy person with many things going on at one time.

Only one complaint, the clock display is hard to view if you are tall, the screen can't be seen to well. Just step back a little to get a good view.
A normal counter top gives a perfect view of screen if you are 5'2"-5'9"

Availability: In Stock. Ships from and sold by UnbeatableSale, Inc.

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Product Description:
Carousel turntable system: 12.75 inch diameter porcelain enamel2-line, 12-digit interactive DisplayAuto-Touch, programmable to 4 sequencesConvection Temperature Control: 100, 150, 275, 450 F in 25 degreeincrementsCompuDefrost, CompuCook, CompuBake, CompuGrill, CompuRoast, CompuPizzaAutomatic Popcorn and Reheat keysCustom HelpColor WhiteMinute PlusKitchen TimerTouch OnAuto StartChild LockAudible Signal EliminationLanguage optionsOven Capacity: 0.9 cu. ft.Oven Intereior: Stainless steel with lightInterior Dimensions: 13 7/8in x 7 1/2in x 14 1/2inPart Number: R-820BW

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7/14/2010

Sharp 1-1/2-Cubic-Foot 900-Watt Convection Microwaves Review

Sharp 1-1/2-Cubic-Foot 900-Watt Convection MicrowavesWow, after reading the other reviews I had to throw my 2 cents in.It's big all right but that's the only point I have in agreement with the other reviewers.

I've had the R-930CS for almost a year.It really lives up to what Sharp says it does.It bakes, broils and microwaves -- all well!I use it to cook meat and it's done a great job on steaks, fresh sausage and chicken.

It also has a nifty feature called Sensor Cook, which is intelligent microwaving.It works for a number of foods including vegetables, frozen entrees and hot dogs.I use it for hot dogs, actually frozen hot dogs.I had no idea how long to cook a frozen hot dog.Not a problem.Slap a couple on a plate, hit Sensor Cook - Hot Dog and the oven does the rest.They come out perfect.

Would I get this oven if I just needed a microwave?Of course not.( I'm not even sure what you use a 1.5 cubic foot microwave for.)But if you need a microwave and a regular oven all in a countertop package, the R-930CS is great.

The cleanup of this oven is easy too.None of the horror stories from the early generation microwave convection combos.This one is stainless steel on the inside.No protruding parts.It (so far) cleans up with a damp paper towels or sometimes with a bit of dishwashing liquid.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sharp 1-1/2-Cubic-Foot 900-Watt Convection Microwaves

Product Description:
Sharp microwave oven R-930AK black convection sensor cook, interactive display,compudefrost plus 11 power level.

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7/11/2010

Sharp 900-Watt 0.9 Cubic Foot Convection Microwaves Review

Sharp 900-Watt 0.9 Cubic Foot Convection MicrowavesGiven the tremendous functionality, and especially for the price, I cannot in good conscience give this oven less than 5 full stars.However, that is definitely not to imply that it is perfect.Nothing is, and this is no exception.So, while others here have done a fine job of highlighting the positive aspects (which is in fact why I bought one, too), I will try to provide a more balanced perspective. First, though, a quick re-cap of those highlights.Yes, this oven really does do the job of three: a conventional microwave, a convection unit, and a toaster oven.In fact, that does not do it justice because it does even more than that.You cannot, for example, grill a burger in any of those types, but you can in this.Especially for a small kitchen, this is phenomenally useful.In just a couple of weeks, I've already become reliant on its non-microwave functions for a variety of things, from roast chicken to frozen French fries, both of which come out better than in my conventional oven and in much less than half the time.And cleanup has not been an issue.

Still, there are flaws.Others have noted the wobbly turntable and difficult to read LCD display, and this is true - but I think there are more serious ones.I'll start with build quality since that was the first one I encountered.I've unfortunately had a chance to explore this in-depth, thanks to a broken fan assembly in mine.This was not shipping damage, either, but a manufacturing defect.In checking out the problem, I was able to examine things on the inside, it was clear that the unit is built to a very tight price point.There is an abundance of crimped sheet metal, a minimum number of screws, and cheap plastic snap-ins securing (barely) too many of the vital components.I'll also note that Consumer Reports has been reporting failure rates for Sharp built-in microwaves (the only variety they track reliability in) many times that of the other brands.That said, this unit replaced a Sharp countertop microwave which was still going strong at 13 years.Another weak point - this time of the design - is the ratio of exterior to interior space.In other words, the cavity is quite small for the amount of space the oven takes up, even compared to other convection units.In fact, my counter can just barely accommodate its depth.This is likely partially the result of its `economical' design.Also related to that, no doubt, is the omission of a doneness sensor, which I would expect on any microwave at this price, convection or not.This sensor is what allows a microwave to automatically reheat dishes, and shut off when it detects, through the amount of steam given off, that a dish is done heating.Instead, we are given reheat presets, which are never adequate (unless maybe you weigh your food first and configure it just right on the plate).

However, not all the preset programs are useless.In fact, much to my surprise, some are invaluable.I expected that all the co-called `Compu-` settings were simple time presets, but this is not the case.Many of these are fairly complex cooking routines, sometimes involving all three methods in various sequences.For example, the Compu-Roast 1 program will cook a darn good roast chicken automatically, using microwave, convection, and even the upper grill for browning near the end.The hamburger Compu-Grill program works similarly well, though I believe with just the 2 grills.(It is not always possible to tell what cooking mode is being used).These programs make it simple for even a mediocre cook like myself to begin using the oven instantly and with good results.And it prevents it from becoming merely an overpriced microwave (like my mother's KitchenAid has: it has convection and an upper grill, too, but no programs, so they remain unused after 2 years).Nonetheless, the presence of such helpful programs does not preclude it having a doneness sensor which is virtually a standard feature these days.Ideally, it would also have a linear power supply like the Panasonics do, allowing truly low-power microwaving, rather than simply cycling full power on and off to simulate low power operation.But not many other manufacturers do this, and that may be expecting too much.Finally, beware that this oven will draw more current than a comparably-sized microwave-only unit: up to 13 amps.This can tax a typical 15 amp household circuit if anything else is plugged in.Add a toaster, for example, and you will trip a breaker (I have).

To summarize, while the build quality is a concern, very few ovens I am aware of offer as much functionality to bake, roast, microwave and grill - and fewer still offer preset programs making all that flexibility readily accessible.None do it for so low a price.In fact, of the few other countertop convection microwaves I could find, nearly all were over three hundred dollars actual selling price.That makes this unique oven a bargain in several ways.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sharp 900-Watt 0.9 Cubic Foot Convection Microwaves

Product Description:
Sharp microwave oven R-820BK black convection/grill 2 line interactive display 35 automatic settings, combination cooking plus 11 power levels.

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7/04/2010

Cuisinart CMW-200 1-1/5-Cubic-Foot Convection Microwave Oven with Grill Review

Cuisinart CMW-200 1-1/5-Cubic-Foot Convection Microwave Oven with GrillI live in a small downtown unit in San Francisco, so anything that takes up space has to earn it's living. This unit is now the only "oven" I use, and it's wonderful. I see many complain about how long it takes to "heat up," but that's a misunderstanding of using convection heat. Just put whatever you want to cook in the oven--cakes, breads, lasagna, etc.--and it will cook as the oven heats. Because of the convection, there are no "hot spots" and nothing will burn. The only adjustment is the cooking time, but that can be gauged with a little practice. Easy to clean, makes wonderful toast, pies, fresh breads and roast cuts of meat.... I don't know what I'd do without this. The microwave is very flexible and easy to use with many different choices on the control panel.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart CMW-200 1-1/5-Cubic-Foot Convection Microwave Oven with Grill

Product Description:
With its brushed stainless-steel and black frame, embossed Cuisinart logo, and dark tinted-glass window, this convection microwave oven and grill not only looks great on the kitchen counter, but it also provides an array of convenient features. Its spacious 1-1/5 cubic-foot interior includes a 12-inch glass tray, which rotates for even heating, as well as a reversible grill rack for use with the grill function. The unit's sleek touchpad control panel with an easy-to-read LCD display offers single and combinations settings for an unlimited number of cooking options. Choose from nine preset options, plus a grill function, as well as two convenient defrost functions for defrosting food by weight or time. Its multi-stage cooking feature allows the microwave to be set to shift automatically from one stage of operation to another for perfect results. The unit can also be used to convection bake or roast with and without microwave function. For added convenience, its stainless-steel interior prevents the absorption of odors and sanitizes easily. An instruction manual with recipes comes included. The 1000-watt microwave oven measures 23-2/3 by 21 by 14-3/5 inches and carries a three-year limited warranty.

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6/24/2010

Panasonic NN-C994S Genius Prestige 1-1/2-Cubic-Foot 1100-Watt Convection Microwave Oven, Stainless Review

Panasonic NN-C994S Genius Prestige 1-1/2-Cubic-Foot 1100-Watt Convection Microwave Oven, StainlessI bought this oven one week ago to replace a Sharp model R-930CS convection microwave, which I had been using for almost 2 years.The black display on the Sharp was hard to read and the microwave didn't work as well as the $79 one I use at work.It was really a leap of faith to buy another convection microwave expecting different results but I found an outstanding deal on Ebay so I took the plunge.

So far this oven has met all of my expectations. It heats my frozen entrees completely and it does a great job popping popcorn.It even has 3 different levels for popping different sized bags.The sensor reheat works well too.

I've even had a couple of happy surprises.First of all I noticed this oven is really nice looking.Not only are the buttons easier to read than the touchpad I used before but they have a stylish high quality appearance.I also like the ceramic turntable more than the metal one I had before.It may not contain large spills as well but I'm guessing it'll be easier to clean.

The biggest surprise for me has been how intuitive/user-friendly the controls have been.After selecting the function I want to use (e.g. microwave, convection, sensor cook, etc.), the next appropriate button or knob lights up so there's no need to read the text message to know which step to take next.I've barely had to refer to the instruction manual at all.

I haven't had a chance to use the convection oven yet so I'll have to come back and update my review when I do.I guess I'm just not as wary about the convection functions because all of the problems I had with my previous oven were related to the microwave functions.Of course reliability will take much longer to determine too.But so far so good!

Update after 3 months - This is definately the right oven for me.I've pretty much used all of its features now and I can't think of any negatives.The convection oven works great and the ceramic tray is a breeze to wash.I haven't regretted my decision for a moment.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Panasonic NN-C994S Genius Prestige 1-1/2-Cubic-Foot 1100-Watt Convection Microwave Oven, Stainless

Product Description:
Panasonic Inverter Technology perfects the art of cooking with microwave ovens, delivering delicious flavor, excellent color, and superb shape and texture in the foods you cook. The consistent delivery of microwave energy means delicate foods can simmer without the edges and surfaces overcooking. Foods have the look and taste you expect - without the wait! The convection oven setting performs like a full-size oven, delivering benefits such as more even browning for baking cakes and pies, and faster roasting of poultry and meats, which seals in juices and prevents drying out. The Stainless Fingerprint Resistant finish on the front of our Genius Prestige Convection microwave ovens helps reduce the amount of unsightly smudging normally found on stainless appliances. So your microwave will look its best even when you are preparing some of your messiest recipes.

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6/20/2010

Panasonic NN-SN667B 1-1/5-Cubic-Foot 1300-Watt Microwave Oven, Black Review

Panasonic NN-SN667B 1-1/5-Cubic-Foot 1300-Watt Microwave Oven, BlackThis replaced a similar sized Panasonic microwave oven that had a problem with the door button getting stuck or popping out. So far it seems to work very well. It's quieter than the previous mmodel and a little smaller for outside dimensions while the interior capacuty is the same as the old model. The inverter technology seems to work well for defrosting, much better than previous microwaves I've owned,and the sensor reheat and cook work very well also. My only complaint is that to use the sensor cook you key in a number from 1-9, but nowhere in the instructions does it explain what number corresponds to what type of food you are cooking. There are less expensive microwaves out there with similar features except for the inverter technolgy, but in my opinion it's worth the extra.

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Product Description:
With a 1-1/5-cubic-foot capacity and 1300 watts of power, this family-size microwave oven provides quick and easy meal preparation. The unit's automatic 13-1/2-inch turntable ensures even heating, while its one-touch sensor cooking adjusts power levels and calculates cooking times automatically, making reheating and cooking a variety of foods easier than ever. A pulsing delivery of very low microwave power keeps food temperature at a constant level--without overcooking; the improved keep-warm menu now includes five items, so foods like stew, gravy, and desserts remain warm in the oven until they're ready to be served. Other highlights include Inverter Turbo Defrost for thorough defrosting, five-button and flat-panel controls, a four-digit display, 10 power levels, five multi-stage cooking options, and more/less control, as well as a popcorn key, Quick Minute, delay start, and a timer. The countertop microwave oven measures 11-7/8 by 20-3/8 by 15-15/16 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

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6/18/2010

Sharp R-820JS 0.9-Cubic Foot Grill 2 Convection Microwave, Silver Review

Sharp R-820JS 0.9-Cubic Foot Grill 2 Convection Microwave, SilverI acquired this microwave when I was moving to a flat with limited kitchen space, and my primary reason for the choice was that the Sharp model was multi-functional. Since I've begun using it, I happily have ceased to sing a requiem for the toaster oven, separate grill, and other items I was 'consolidating' in this purchase.

I have used the Sharp microwave for grilling and roasting, as well as normal microwave functions, and the results are better than I could have expected. Grilled and roasted foods are extremely tender and juicy - at least of the quality one could expect from a conventional oven. I have had similar success with cooking vegetables.

Reheating muffins and breads has amazing results - they seem fresh baked and, unlike breads normally heated in a microwave, do not harden in a minute. I have used the convection feature for preparing breads, and had especially stunning results with preparing a frozen chicken pie. I suppose the surrounding air from the convection oven was the reason, but it seemed like a fresh-baked meat pie.

There are a few drawbacks, which would not compromise my five star rating because of the great versatility and high quality of the unit overall. The 'auto' roast, defrost, and grill features are very convenient, as is the prompting (telling one when to turn over the meat, for example), but they are very limited in the weight restrictions. For example, if one is defrosting ground meat, it has to be a certain weight - significantly more than that of a single hamburger. Though grills and roasts would mostly fit in to the specifications, this is a drawback for defrosting, where one must estimate times and key them in manually.

Another difficulty I have experienced, when grilling on the rack, is that drippings which fall either on to the carousel tray or a pan placed under the meat can become badly burnt and baked on. This was slightly disappointing for my intentions of preparing gravies on the side. My single attempt to do so meant I had to soak the pan overnight and then scrape. The grilling results are wonderful, as far as the effect on the meats, but there is a great deal of smoke generated. Whenever I grill, it sets off the smoke alarm - probably best to roast, then only grill at the end.

I would advise anyone purchasing this microwave to read the manual in full. The capabilities will not be realised otherwise. I actually use the unit less for 'standard microwaving' than for its other features.

One further comment: the Sharp microwave cookbook, which is advertised in the manual for the unit, is useful but not specific to the multi-functional machine. It contains only microwave recipes - none for grilling, roasting, or convection.

Overall, and considering that it can replace several appliances, this microwave is an extraordinary value.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sharp R-820JS 0.9-Cubic Foot Grill 2 Convection Microwave, Silver

Product Description:
Sharp convection microwave, R820JS silver family size convection microwave, bakes, grills, roasts, 11 power levels, stainless interior, turntable. Enhanced browning and crisping are possible in a convection microwave oven. That's because only the Grill 2 Convection has "double" grills that emit radiant heat both over and under food.

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