What is the difference between conventional and fan oven?

Conventional ovens use the heating elements located at the top and bottom of the oven to generate heat. The heat rises and circulates naturally within the oven, resulting in an uneven distribution of heat. This uneven heat can lead to dishes being cooked unevenly, with the food closest to the heating elements cooking faster than the food in the center or at the back of the oven.

Fan ovens, also known as convection ovens, incorporate a fan that circulates the hot air within the oven, ensuring a more even distribution of heat. This results in faster and more uniform cooking, reducing the chances of unevenly cooked dishes. Fan ovens are particularly effective for baking pastries and cakes, as they help to create a crispy outer crust while maintaining a soft and moist interior.

Here are the key differences between conventional and fan ovens:

1. Heat Distribution: Conventional ovens have a natural convection of heat, leading to uneven heat distribution. Fan ovens use a fan to circulate the hot air, resulting in uniform heat distribution throughout the oven cavity.

2. Cooking Speed: Fan ovens cook food faster compared to conventional ovens due to the circulating hot air. The circulation of hot air helps transfer heat more effectively, reducing the overall cooking time.

3. Energy Efficiency: Fan ovens are more energy-efficient than conventional ovens. By circulating the hot air, they require less energy to maintain the desired temperature and distribute it evenly.

4. Cooking Techniques: Conventional ovens are suitable for most types of cooking, including roasting, baking, and broiling. Fan ovens are particularly well-suited for baking pastries and cakes, as the circulating hot air creates a crispy crust and a moist interior.

5. Cooking Placement: In conventional ovens, it is essential to rotate baking sheets or pans halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. With fan ovens, food placement is less critical as the circulating air helps distribute the heat evenly.