How do you use an electric roaster?
- Turn on the electric roaster oven to 325°F. Place a small amount of liquid such as water or broth on the bottom of the electric roaster, place the ham on the oven rack.
- Cover with the domed lid and cook until the ham is hot all the way through using the cooking chart listed above.
Roasting, Not Steaming
Adding water to the bottom of the roaster oven before cooking defeats the purpose of the unit, as its function is to roast, not steam, the food. Additional moisture may prevent the skin on a turkey, goose or large chicken from browning and crisping, and any natural flavors present in the meat juices may be reduced through dilution.
Roaster Oven Basics
Roasting ovens generally come as 18- or 22-quart units that can accommodate up to a 20-pound turkey or a large beef or pork roast or ham. The high-domed lid on most models provides extra space at the top for oddly shaped cuts of meat, and some units include a removable rack that keeps the meat off the bottom.
Step by Step
All roaster ovens are accompanied by a detailed owner's manual that provides all the information necessary to the proper usage and maintenance of the unit. This includes recipes designed specifically for the oven, and following them assures the best results.
Exception to the Rule
All electric roasting ovens work for many other types of cooking, including baking cakes and casseroles, making soups and steaming foods. Steaming foods such as vegetables requires the addition of water and the use of a separate steaming unit, such as a metal basket or large colander.
