Smeg’s new Combi Steam Oven emerges as a peculiar paradox – a beautifully designed, highly capable countertop cooking device that excels at nearly everything it attempts, while simultaneously struggling to define its essential role in the modern kitchen. This $999.95 marvel, currently available exclusively in the US market, represents both the pinnacle of compact cooking technology and a puzzling addition to the contemporary kitchen lineup.
The Combi Steam Oven‘s aesthetic appeal is immediately apparent, channeling Smeg’s signature mid-century design language across five distinct color options: black, white, red, cream, and light blue. The enamel finish and clean lines create a striking presence that would enhance any kitchen counter. However, this beauty comes with a significant footprint, occupying considerably more space than traditional toaster ovens while offering similar internal cooking capacity.
At the heart of this appliance lies Smeg’s innovative Galileo Multicooking technology, which combines sophisticated airflow patterns with professional cooking algorithms to deliver consistently excellent results. The oven’s versatility is impressive, featuring traditional baking and convection functions alongside steam and air frying capabilities. The integration of 33 automatic chef recipes further simplifies the cooking process across a wide range of dishes, from meats and vegetables to breads and desserts.
The cooking performance of the Combi Steam Oven proves exceptional across various tests. Whether preparing sweet potato fries from scratch, baking blueberry muffins, or roasting vegetables, the results consistently impress. The oven’s steam function adds a particular advantage, helping achieve the perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender interior in items like brussels sprouts, which traditionally prove challenging to cook optimally. Even frozen foods, such as pizzas and pierogies, emerge perfectly cooked with minimal monitoring required.
Technical sophistication is evident in the oven’s design features. The unit maintains a remarkably cool exterior during operation, reaching only 76 degrees Fahrenheit at its hottest point. A built-in cooling system, complete with progress monitoring, helps manage temperature control after use. The integrated water compartment for steam functions is cleverly concealed in the top of the unit, though this design choice contributes to the appliance’s substantial size.
Control comes through two dials that access three primary menus: Traditional Cooking, Steam Cooking, and Chef Menu. While this interface requires some initial familiarization, it provides access to an impressive array of cooking options. The large window and permanent interior lighting allow for easy monitoring of cooking progress, though the operating noise level can reach 65 dB(A), making it notably louder than many conventional ovens.
However, the Combi Steam Oven’s excellence in cooking performance is somewhat overshadowed by practical considerations. The absence of a dedicated toast function seems a curious omission in a device that might otherwise replace a toaster oven. Maintenance presents another challenge, as all accessories require hand washing, and the oven’s interior proves stubbornly resistant to cleaning with non-abrasive cleaners as recommended by the manufacturer.
The most significant question surrounding the Combi Steam Oven isn’t about its capabilities but rather its place in the kitchen ecosystem. Too small to replace a full-sized oven yet too large to serve as a simple toaster oven replacement, it occupies an awkward middle ground that makes its substantial price tag harder to justify. While it excels at specialized tasks like steam cooking and air frying, these functions might be better served by dedicated appliances that consume less counter space.
For those with ample counter space and a appreciation for versatile cooking technology, the Smeg Combi Steam Oven offers undeniable appeal. Its combination of sophisticated cooking capabilities and stunning design makes it a compelling choice for kitchen enthusiasts who prioritize both form and function. The ability to switch seamlessly between different cooking methods while maintaining consistent, high-quality results could make it a valuable addition to certain kitchens.
However, potential buyers should carefully consider their specific needs and kitchen setup before investing in this premium appliance. While the Combi Steam Oven excels at what it does, its price point and size make it a significant commitment that may not easily integrate into every kitchen workflow. For those who can accommodate its physical presence and appreciate its versatile capabilities, it offers a unique combination of style and substance that few other countertop appliances can match.
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