Known for their timeless design and versatility, AGAs have been a staple in kitchens for nearly a century. However, if you’re new to AGA cooking, the experience can seem a bit daunting at first. Unlike conventional ovens, AGAs operate differently, offering unique benefits—and challenges—that make them stand out. This guide will help you navigate the basics of AGA cooking, so you can start enjoying all the rewards this iconic appliance has to offer.
Understanding the AGA: What Sets It Apart?
The AGA cooker is unlike any conventional oven. It’s always on, powered by a heat source that keeps its various ovens and hotplates at a constant temperature. Traditional AGAs have four ovens—each dedicated to a specific function (roasting, baking, simmering, and warming)—and two hotplates (one for boiling, the other for simmering).
Modern models might have additional features, such as a fan oven or induction hob, but the principle remains the same: the AGA is all about gentle, radiant heat that cooks food evenly and retains moisture.
Key Differences:
- No On/Off Switch: AGAs are designed to be always on, meaning there’s no preheating. You simply use the oven or hotplate that’s at the correct temperature for what you’re cooking.
- Zone Cooking: Each oven and hotplate has a specific temperature range, so you’ll need to adjust your cooking methods to match. For example, the roasting oven is ideal for high-heat cooking, while the simmering oven is perfect for slow-cooked dishes.
- No Cooking Timers: Since the AGA is constantly on, cooking times can be more intuitive. It’s a more hands-on experience, where you learn by observing how your food is cooking and making adjustments as necessary.
Getting Started: Tips for New AGA Owners
- Get to Know Your AGA: The first step in mastering AGA cooking is familiarising yourself with the different ovens and hotplates. Understand which parts of your AGA are hotter and which are cooler. Spend some time experimenting with simple recipes to get a feel for how your AGA performs.
- Invest in AGA-Specific Cookware: While your existing pots and pans will likely work just fine, AGA-specific cookware can make your life easier. Heavy-bottomed, cast iron or enamel cookware works particularly well with AGAs, as they retain heat and distribute it evenly.
- Adjust Your Cooking Techniques: Since AGAs cook with radiant heat, which is gentler and more even than the direct heat from conventional ovens, you may need to adjust your cooking times and techniques. For instance, roasting might take a bit longer, but the results will be succulent and flavorful.
- Use the Oven Shelves Wisely: The positioning of your food in the oven can make a big difference. Higher shelves in the roasting oven are hotter, while lower shelves are cooler. Similarly, the top of the simmering oven is warmer than the bottom. Learn to use these temperature gradients to your advantage.
- Learn the Art of Simmering: One of the AGA’s greatest strengths is its ability to simmer dishes to perfection. Whether it’s a slow-cooked stew or a batch of rice, the simmering oven offers consistent, gentle heat that ensures tender, flavorful results.
- Baking in an AGA: Baking in an AGA is a joy once you get the hang of it. The baking oven provides consistent heat, which is ideal for cakes, breads, and pastries. Because AGAs retain moisture so well, baked goods tend to be softer and more moist than those cooked in conventional ovens.
- Embrace the Warmth: Beyond cooking, your AGA will become a cosy centrepiece in your kitchen, offering a constant source of warmth. Take advantage of this by using your AGA to dry herbs, warm plates, or even proof bread dough.
Overcoming Challenges: The Learning Curve
Switching from a conventional oven to an AGA comes with a learning curve. The constant heat and lack of dials or timers can be a challenge if you’re used to precise controls. It may take a few tries to perfect your favourite recipes, but don’t be discouraged. With practice, you’ll learn how to harness the AGA’s strengths and adapt your cooking style accordingly.
Common Challenges:
- Timing Adjustments: Recipes designed for conventional ovens may require timing tweaks. Keep a close eye on your dishes, especially when trying out a recipe for the first time.
- Heat Management: It can take time to learn which oven or hotplate to use for each cooking task. Patience and experimentation are key.
- Multi-tasking: AGAs are designed for multi-tasking, so don’t be afraid to have a roast in the oven while simmering a sauce on the hotplate. With practice, you’ll learn how to manage multiple dishes at once.
The Rewards of AGA Cooking
Despite the initial challenges, AGA cooking offers many rewards. The even heat distribution results in beautifully cooked meals, with moist, tender meats and perfectly baked breads. The AGA’s versatility also encourages creativity in the kitchen, as you explore new recipes and techniques suited to this unique appliance. Moreover, the AGA becomes more than just a cooker—it’s a warm, welcoming presence that adds character and comfort to your kitchen.
While AGA cooking may require some adjustments, the rewards are well worth the effort. With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll soon be whipping up delicious, home-cooked meals that take full advantage of your AGA’s capabilities. Happy cooking!
If you haven’t purchased your new AGA yet, you can browse our collection of AGA cookers here.