16
OVEN USE
Setting the Oven
The Convection Bake mode is used for baking, roasting or warming using one, two or three racks. To use
Convection Bake, push the Convection Button (located on the control panel) and turn the control knob to the
temperature desired. Models RDT-484GG, RDT-485GD, RDT-486GL and RDT-486GD have two ovens. The oven
on the left side can be used for regular bake only; simply turn the control knob to the temperature desired.
Converting Recipes to Convection Baking
Low-sided baking utensils will give the best results as the hot air can reach all sides of the food easier. The oven
temperature can be left the same as the recipe and the food will be cooked in a shorter period of time. The
temperature can be lowered 25ºF and the food will probably take the same length of time to cook as the recipe
states. If you find that food is adequately browned on the outside, but not done in the center, lower the
temperature another 25ºF and add to the baking time. When reducing the temperature always check the food
for doneness, a minute to two before the minimum time stated in the recipe, as time can always be added.
Some recipes will cook faster than others. There is no way to predict exactly how long each recipe will take
when you convert it to convection. Convection will be easier to use after you have used it a few times as you
will begin to understand the way it bakes.
Selecting Utensils for Convection Baking
Cooking by convection does not require any specially designed baking utensils. You probably have many
utensils in your kitchen that are suitable to use. When choosing a baking utensil, consider the material, the size
and the shape as they all affect the baking time, the palatability and the appearance of the finished product.
Metal bakeware (aluminum, steel and cast iron) all result in the fastest cooking time and the best end product.
Aluminum pans work best for all types of baked goods. When baking pies and breads for the best browning,
use a pan with a dark or dull finish that absorbs heat. A shiny finish works best for cakes and cookies, since it
reflects some of the heat and provides a more tender surface. Cookie sheets with only one lip will give the best
results, as the heated air can circulate all around the sides of the food. For roasting use the bottom of the broil
pan and elevate the meat on a metal roasting rack. Glass-ceramic or glass utensils do not conduct heat as well
as metal, but they can be used. Use them for foods that do not require a dark brown crust or crisping, such as
soufflés.
Baked items cook more quickly and evenly if they are individually smaller in size, i.e. two or three small foods
do better than one large piece. When single food items are baked, always center the food on the rack. If
several foods are being baked, space them evenly on the rack or racks.
To Get the Best Results
■ Follow the recommendations above.
■ Metal utensils give better results in convection than do glass baking utensils. If you use glass, it usually is not
necessary to lower the temperature an additional 25°F.
■ Use a minute timer and set for less than the minimum time suggested in the recipe, the first time you use a
recipe in the convection mode. Be sure to note the new baking time on your recipe, for future reference.
■ Be sure to read the basic information on convection before using the oven for the first time (see page 15).
■ Keep in mind that convection baking results vary, depending on type of product. In many cases, standard bake
yields superior results over convection.
Convection Baking Rack Position
One to three racks can be used simultaneously during convection baking. Place the rack/s in the desired
position before turning the oven on. Store the unused racks out of the oven. Rack position 2 (second from
bottom) will probably be used the most for single rack baking. When baking on more than one rack, you do not
need to stagger the pans. However, allow at least 1-inch of space between the oven walls and the pans so the
heated air can circulate.