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Combi Ovens
ombi ovens combine convection and steam cooking in a single unit. They can operate in convection
mode, steam mode, or a combination of both. Combi Ovens are highly versatile, and are used for
baking, roasting, steaming, poaching, and more. Technology has moved this category a long way in the
last decade, allowing for network, WiFi and Bluetooth enabled devices to ensure recipes are followed
consistently.
Combi Ovens can be intimidating at first. Conversely, they can also produce outstanding and consistent
results. However, not all Combi Ovens are created equal. Manufacturers have developed a range of
features in this category to allow operators the best of what they require in their
kitchens.
While Rational has the largest marketshare in Canada, many other lines are well
established internationally and for good reason. Lainox and their Naboo line
have a free, cloud-based recipe system making downloading new recipes quick
and seamless for multi-unit applications or to allow chefs to try new menu items
without having to start from scratch. In addition, their touchscreen module is set up
similar to today’s phones and tablets making it easier to use.
Unox, perhaps the largest Combi Oven brand in the world, has innovation at the
forefront with their Intelligent Performance features. “Adaptive.Cooking™” will
automatically set cooking parameters regardless of the amount in the cooking
chamber while “CLIMALUX™” measures humidity to achieve the optimal results.
Garland’s brand ConvoTherm has both a manual
dial option as well as the full programmable
EasyTouch option with a fully automatic cleaning system and disappearing door
for more space and added safety in a busy kitchen.
While every Combi Oven on the market offers unique features and benefits, none are perfect for every
application. Combi Ovens are a significant investment; if your menu only requires a steamer oven or a
traditional oven, it is more cost-effective and practical to opt for those simpler, less expensive, and easier-to-
maintain options.
As with all ovens, capacity is a key consideration. The Combi Oven will either accommodate half-size or
full-size pans, and different ovens accommodate a different number of pans. Another feature touted in the
market is whether the Combi Oven contains a boiler or is boilerless. Boilerless units are less expensive and
require less maintenance. However, in a high demand busy kitchen, a Combi Oven with a boiler will produce
more steam on demand and recover quicker a heavy steam application. Finally, for any piece of cooking
equipment that utilizes a water supply, the cost of a water filter and/or softener should be factored in.
Alto-Shaam includes exclusive features such as
boilerless design, which is standard on their Prodigi
and CT Express Combi models, with up to 80% less
water usage as well as Safevent™ that automatically vents heat and steam
during the last 60 seconds of cooking to keep
staff safe.
Ovens