Commercial Rotating Rack Ovens

The movement of the rack and the food virtually eliminates any possibility of inconsistent heating or baking by doing the work of turning foods for the operator. That means consistent results time after time, with no scorching or undercooked dough centers. With their large windows and attention-grabbing motion, rack ovens make good merchandisers, as well, giving customers a glimpse of what's cooking if they're installed behind the counter.

Because of the moisture inlet, rack oven models need to be tied into your building's water supply. They also need a drain connection to remove condensate from spent steam. The units themselves come pre-plumbed, which makes installation easier, but you must ensure you have the space and resources necessary to install it in your facility.

The rotating oven also comes with a rack that can be removed without the need for tools to allow for simple cleaning of the entire cabinet. The rack is built with pan slides that can hold up to eight 18-in. x 26-in. full-size sheet pans. The slides can be adjusted on 1-inch increments to accommodate pans of different depths.

These also have pan racks built into the frame beneath the oven to hold products while they wait to be baked or as they cool.

Controls

In addition to the expected time and temperature controls, rack ovens include a few special features that you typically won't find on other equipment.

• Beside the rotating racks, another feature that sets this equipment apart from its kitchen counterparts is the ability to inject steam into the cooking chamber. Lots of dishes can benefit from the presence of steam during the baking process, from bread to vegetables, and this oven can inject steam for several seconds, with the exact time determined by the operator.
• For better control over the steam process, these ovens have built-in vents that can be opened and closed with a button on the control panel to clear excess moisture. That lets you ensure you have just the right amount of steam for the recipe you're preparing.
• A fan delay feature will slow the fan, pausing convection for up to ten minutes so that breads can rise and begin to develop a crust before convection completes the baking process.

What Can I Bake in a Rotating Rack Oven?

These ovens can cook anything that a traditional standard or convection oven can, and usually with better results.

This type of oven lends itself particularly well to baking bread. Steam is a secret weapon in the arsenal of many master bread bakers. By introducing steam into the rotating oven, you accomplish two things: First, you slow down the formation of the crust, which allows your bread to rise higher than it would otherwise. Second, the steam helps bring out the sugars on the bread's surface. As the loaf bakes, those sugars caramelize, creating a crispy, flavorful crust.

Meats can be roasted directly on the oven rack. When you do this, it is recommended that you insert a pan half-full of water on the bottom rack slide. This will catch grease, keep the rack oven clean, and help maintain moisture.

Common Questions About Commercial Rotating Rack Ovens

What makes rotating rack ovens so efficient?

The rotating racks ensure even heat distribution, eliminating cold spots to ensure consistent cooking. The movement of the racks also prevents scorching or undercooking, delivering consistent results every time.

Can I bake a variety of foods in a rotating rack oven?

Yes. These versatile ovens can bake anything a standard or convection oven can and with superior results, especially for items like bread and baked goods that benefit from steam.

How easy is it to clean a rotating rack oven?

Cleaning is simple thanks to removable racks that don't require tools. The racks can be adjusted to accommodate different pan sizes, and the oven's design makes it easy to wipe down after each use.

Do rotating rack ovens require any special installation?

Yes, they need to be connected to a water supply and have a drain to remove condensate. However, the ovens come pre-plumbed to simplify installation, as long as the necessary space and resources are available.

What is the best commercial oven for baking?

The best commercial oven for baking depends on your specific needs, including what you're baking, the volume you produce, and your budget. However, convection ovens are generally considered the most versatile and popular choice for commercial baking due to their excellent heat distribution, which ensures even cooking and browning. They're particularly well-suited for cakes, pastries, cookies, and breads.

Deck ovens are favored for artisan breads and pizzas, offering precise temperature control and excellent crust development. Rack ovens are ideal for high-volume production, allowing you to bake large quantities simultaneously.

Advantages of Commercial Rotating Rack Ovens

Rotating rack ovens offer uniform baking and versatile cooking options with steam injection for enhanced results. Their ease of cleaning and adjustable pan slides make them user-friendly, and their large windows provide an engaging display for customers. These ovens also save time with efficient cooking and maintenance features, ensuring high productivity for commercial kitchens.