To use your LG microwave as a convection oven, you're activating a built-in convection feature rather than converting the appliance. Many LG microwave models are combination units designed to offer both microwave and convection cooking capabilities.
Activating the Convection Bake Feature on Your LG Microwave
Using the convection function allows your LG microwave to bake and roast much like a traditional oven, circulating hot air for even cooking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Convection Baking
Follow these steps to set up and start the convection bake feature:
- Prepare Your Cookware: Ensure you are using oven-safe cookware suitable for convection ovens, such as glass, ceramic, or metal dishes. Avoid plastic containers. Many LG convection microwaves come with a metal rack; use this to allow for better air circulation around your food.
- Access the Convection Function: Locate the "Convection," "Bake," or "Convection Bake" button on your microwave's control panel. Press it.
- Set the Temperature: After pressing the convection button, you will typically be prompted to enter your desired cooking temperature. Use the number pad to input the temperature (e.g., "3," "5," "0" for 350°F).
- Start Preheating: Once the temperature is set, press the Start button. This will initiate the preheat function on the unit. The microwave will begin to heat up to your selected temperature.
- Wait for Preheating Completion: The unit will notify you when preheating is done. A notification sound will typically play, and a message like "Preheat Finish" or "Ready" will appear on the display.
- Place Your Food: Carefully open the microwave door and place your food inside, ideally on the metal rack provided, if applicable.
- Set Cook Time (Optional) and Start Cooking:
- For recipes that require a specific bake time, you might need to enter the cooking duration after placing the food.
- Press the Start button again to begin the convection cooking cycle.
- Monitor and Adjust: Keep an eye on your food. Convection ovens often cook faster than conventional ovens, so you might need to adjust cooking times or temperatures slightly.
Essential Tips for Convection Cooking
- Consult Your Manual: Always refer to your specific LG microwave's owner's manual for precise instructions, as button names and steps can vary slightly between models. You can often find digital copies on the LG Support website.
- Use the Metal Rack: If your microwave came with a metal rack, use it during convection cooking. It elevates the food, allowing hot air to circulate evenly around it, which is key to convection's efficiency.
- Temperature Adjustments: Many recipes developed for conventional ovens might need slight adjustments when cooked in a convection oven. A general rule of thumb is to reduce the temperature by 25°F or decrease the cooking time by 20-25%.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure there's enough space around your food for the hot air to circulate. Overcrowding can hinder the convection process.
- Ventilation: Ensure the microwave's ventilation is clear, especially when using it for longer convection cycles.
By following these steps, you can effectively utilize the convection capabilities of your LG microwave to bake, roast, and brown a variety of dishes with excellent results.
