Purpose of the Lower Storage Compartment in Your Oven
Here's the Lowdown on Your Oven's Bottom Drawer
Every home's oven varies, from gas ones to electric, and even vintage stoves with unique quirks. Yet, a common spot remains consistent: the bottom compartment. Though it may look familiar on the surface, this drawer's function can differ from home to home. Here's what you should know about your oven's bottom drawer and how it should be utilized, ensuring kitchen victories and preventing any potential kitchen disasters.
Keeping Your Oven Game in Check:## What's Your Oven's Bottom Drawer For?
Regardless of how much your oven's bottom looks like your neighbor's, it could serve an entirely separate function. Misusing that drawer may lead to kitchen mishaps, even a fire. Here are the three most popular uses for the oven's bottom drawer.
Storage for Goodies
If the bottom compartment on your oven resembles a deep, metal drawer with no heating components, chances are it's for storage. It's not meant for heating, but it can still retain some oven heat. So, stash baking sheets, muffin pans, or other pots and pans (as long as they're heat-safe) to save your counters some space. Avoid storing anything plastic or flammable inside.
Warm and Cozy
On some ovens, the bottom compartment can heat food after cooking, making it perfect for large gatherings or holidays. That lasagna or side dish stays fresh and warm while you concentrate on the main dish. Look for a "Warming" button or a dial labeled as such, or check your appliance details to confirm its purpose and suggested uses.
Sizzling and Browning
A step up from warming is broiling, a common feature of the bottom drawer on gas ovens. This function helps quickly brown or toast foods, like cheese dishes. Be cautious; broiling gets hot quickly, so watch your food to avoid burning. Do not use it for warming dishes. Always double-check if your oven's broiling option is in the main part of the oven or in the bottom drawer.
The bottom drawer's versatility illustrates the oven's adaptability, serving various cooking needs based on the oven model. Keep your knowledge updated to make the most of your cooking experience!
- The oven's bottom drawer, though it might appear similar in various homes, could serve a unique function, such as storage, warming, or broiling.
- If your oven's bottom drawer resembles a deep, metal, non-heating drawer, it is likely used for storing heat-safe kitchen tools products like baking sheets, muffin pans, or kitchen appliances.
- Some ovens have the ability to heat food after cooking in the bottom drawer, making it ideal for large gatherings or holidays, keeping dishes warm while the main dish is prepared.
- Broiling is a common feature in the bottom drawer of gas ovens, useful for quickly browning or toasting foods, such as cheese dishes, though caution should be exercised as broiling heats up quickly and should not be used for warming dishes.
- RealSimple suggests regularly checking your oven's features to maximize your cooking experience and understand its adaptability, ensuring that you are making the most out of the versatility of your kitchen appliances.
