New culinary options

Press, 31 August 1989, Page 28

New culinary options

Today’s kitchen appliances offer consumers exciting choices. Instead of buying what is available, consumers can now buy appliances with all the functions they want. This change has come about through advances in technology and the arrival of Euroepan concepts in New Zealand, says Mr Paul Anticich, the sales director for Kitchen Appliances Specialists. The efficiency of modern appliances has helped change the modern kitchen into a cook’s paradise. When you are buying

appliances, the same old advice holds good — that you get what you pay for. You should buy the best you can afford after thinking about the cooking needs of your particular household — the number of people in it and the most-used cooking methods such as grilling or deep frying. The European influence is strong on today’s market. European appliances are designed to be energy efficient, have a long life and to fit into any space — because when peole move house, all the appliances go too. European oven exteriors are smaller, but he cavities are the same size. They are made to fit flush with joinery for a streamlined appearance.

Ovens are made in seval colour options. White

and brown are the most popular. Black, grey, beige and profiline (stainless steel) are other choices. Most models are multi-function ovens, featuring bake, grill, fan bake and fan grill. Single ovens are the biggest sellers. Underbench ovens are a popular choice. Hobs have become more versatile, easy to clean, functional and well-priced. “Fischer” hobs fit this category, Mr Anticich says. "Jenn-Air” hobs are made with optional function of a grill for barbecuing or a griddle for cooking bacon and eggs.

“Domino” hobs can have gas elements for speed, electric, ceramic for easy cleaning, grilling, or a deep fryer. Rangehoods and downdraughts help eliminate cooking odours and are

found in most modern kitchens. Rangehoods can be integrated — an important kitchen concept where the front panels of the appliance match the cupboard fronts. Downdraughts work by taking cooking smells down under the hobs and out through the floor. Refrigerators can also be integrated. They are made in special sizes and to fit under benches. Frost-free deep freezes are a boon for busy people. Microwave ovens are probably the most revolutionary modern kitchen appliance. Their speed and efficiency has transformed the approach to food preparation. Not only

are they energy efficient, they cook food in a healthy way, because no fat is required. Water soluble vitamins are not destroyed and natural flavour is enhanced. The colour of vegetables looks especially attractive.