The fan in an oven, commonly known as the convection fan, is used in certain cooking situations to enhance the cooking process. Here are some cases in which you might want to use the fan of the oven:
Baking: The convection fan is particularly useful for baking. It circulates the hot air evenly around the food, resulting in more consistent and even baking. Cakes, cookies, pastries, and breads often benefit from using the convection fan as it helps to achieve a golden, evenly cooked crust while maintaining a moist interior.
Roasting: When roasting meats or vegetables, the convection fan can help to achieve more even browning and faster cooking. The circulating hot air helps to crisp the exterior of the food while retaining moisture inside. It can also reduce cooking times, making it useful when you want to cook large cuts of meat or roast multiple dishes simultaneously.
Multi-rack cooking: If you are cooking on multiple racks at the same time, using the convection fan can ensure that the heat is evenly distributed among the different levels. Without the fan, the heat may be uneven, resulting in uneven cooking and browning. The convection fan helps to overcome this issue by promoting better airflow and heat distribution.
Dehydrating: If your oven has a dehydrating function or a low-temperature setting, using the convection fan can aid in the dehydration process. The circulating air helps to remove moisture from fruits, vegetables, and herbs, allowing them to dry more evenly and quickly.
Preheating: In some ovens, using the convection fan during the preheating stage can help to distribute the heat more quickly and evenly throughout the oven. This can reduce the overall preheating time, making it more efficient.
It's important to note that not all recipes or cooking instructions are designed for convection cooking. Some recipes may require adjustments when using the convection fan, such as reducing cooking times or adjusting temperatures. Always refer to the recipe instructions or consult the oven's user manual for specific guidance on when and how to use the convection fan for optimal results.