Smeg COF01 10-in-1 Multifunction Countertop Oven with Steam & Air Fry: A Comprehensive Review
The Smeg COF01 10-in-1 Multifunction Countertop Oven with Steam & Air Fry is a luxurious addition to any kitchen. Combining retro-inspired aesthetics with modern functionality, this appliance promises versatility, style, and performance. However, with a premium price tag and some usability quirks, it may not be the perfect choice for everyone. Let’s dive into the details to see if this countertop oven deserves a spot in your kitchen.
Pros and Cons of the Smeg COF01
Pros:
- Large Cooking Capacity: With a 30-liter internal cavity, this oven can handle large meals, making it ideal for families or entertaining.
- Stylish Design: The retro-inspired design adds timeless elegance to any kitchen.
- Excellent Cooking Results: Delivers consistent and high-quality results across various cooking modes.
Cons:
- Long Preheat Times: The oven requires significant preheating, which may not suit those seeking quick meal prep.
- High Price: At $999, this is one of the most expensive countertop ovens on the market.
Key Features of the Smeg COF01
1. 30-Liter Internal Capacity
The Smeg COF01 boasts an impressive 30-liter capacity, which is larger than most countertop ovens. Whether you're roasting a whole chicken, baking a large batch of cookies, or air frying a family-sized portion of fries, this oven can handle it all.
2. 10-in-1 Versatility
This appliance is more than just an oven. It also functions as:
– A steamer
– A grill
– An air fryer
– A convection oven
– And more, with 33 preset cooking programs for a variety of dishes.
3. Chef Menu
The built-in “Chef Menu” offers 33 auto-cooking presets, allowing you to cook everything from sausages to vegetables with ease. Simply input the weight of the food, and the oven calculates the ideal cooking time.
4. Steam Functionality
Equipped with a water tank, the Smeg COF01 allows you to add steam to your cooking for moist and flavorful results. This is particularly useful for dishes like salmon or bread dough.
Design and Build Quality
The Smeg COF01 is undeniably a showstopper. Its retro-inspired design, complete with bold “Smeg” lettering and a minimalist control panel, makes it a statement piece for any kitchen. However, its size (500x500x400 mm) means it takes up significant counter space. If you have a small kitchen, you’ll need to carefully consider whether you can accommodate this appliance.
The oven comes with three accessories:
– A wire rack for grilling
– A standard baking tray
– A perforated tray for steaming and air frying
Performance and Cooking Tests
During testing, the Smeg COF01 impressed with its ability to deliver consistently excellent results. Here are some highlights:
Air Frying
We tested frozen chips at 210°C for 20 minutes. The result? Crispy, golden fries that rivaled those from a dedicated air fryer. However, the preheat time added an extra 5-7 minutes to the process.
Steaming
Using the Fan Grill & Steam mode, we cooked salmon fillets marinated in lemon juice and black pepper. The result was perfectly browned, crispy skin with moist, flavorful flesh. This was one of the standout performances of the oven.
Baking
Garlic bread and homemade garlic knots baked beautifully. The fan-assisted oven mode delivered even browning and soft interiors. However, the 15-minute preheat time doubled the total cooking duration.
Roasting
Hasselback potatoes cooked on the Fan Grill & Steam mode at 220°C with 60% steam came out tender and crispy in just 30 minutes—no parboiling required.
Defrosting
Defrosting was less successful, as pork loin steaks remained partially frozen after 90 minutes. However, cooking them on the Chef Menu's pork setting yielded juicy and well-cooked results.
Comparisons with Competitors
At $999, the Smeg COF01 is significantly more expensive than competitors like the Ninja Combi 12-in-1 Multi-Cooker & Oven or the Dreo ChefMaker. While it offers a larger capacity and superior design, these alternatives provide faster preheat times and more user-friendly controls at a fraction of the price.
Who Should Buy the Smeg COF01?
You Should Buy It If:
- You value style as much as functionality.
- You need a large-capacity countertop oven.
- You’re willing to spend a premium for high-quality results.
You Should Skip It If:
- You’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
- You prioritize fast cooking and preheating times.
- Counter space is at a premium in your kitchen.
Final Thoughts
The Smeg COF01 10-in-1 Multifunction Countertop Oven with Steam & Air Fry is a stunning appliance that delivers excellent cooking results across a variety of functions. However, its long preheat times and high price make it less appealing for those seeking speed or affordability. If you’re looking for a stylish, versatile oven and don’t mind the premium price tag, the Smeg COF01 is a worthy investment.
Where to Buy:
For those exploring alternatives, consider the Ninja Combi 12-in-1 Multi-Cooker & Oven or the Dreo ChefMaker, both of which offer excellent performance at a lower cost.
FAQs
What is the cooking capacity of the Smeg COF01?
The Smeg COF01 has a 30-liter internal capacity, making it one of the largest countertop ovens available.
Does the Smeg COF01 include accessories?
Yes, it includes a wire rack, a standard baking tray, and a perforated tray for steaming and air frying.
What is the maximum temperature of the Smeg COF01?
The oven reaches a maximum temperature of 230°C, ideal for grilling and air frying.
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