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Your oven is a versatile appliance that lets you bake, broil, and simmer your food to perfection.

If that describes you, were here to help.

Woman putting food in oven

We consulted Glenn Lewis, president ofMr.

What is a broiler?

A broiler is simply a heating element in your oven thats used to cook food from above.

Vegetables cooking under a broiler

A broiler provides direct heat to your food, causing it to brown, char, or caramelize.

Broilers are perfect for creating golden, crispy finishes!

Its also ideal for quickly toasting bread for garlic toast or crostini.

Heating element in oven

How do broilers work?

Thats different from how an oven cooks food.

Ovens use a bottom element to fill the appliance with hot air to roast or bake your food.

Woman putting broiler pan with fish fillet slices into oven

When should you use your broiler rather than your oven to cook food?

Use the main oven for baking or slow roasting when you need consistent heat throughout, recommends Bond.

Our experts shared their top tips on using a broiler to achieve the perfect crispy finish for your dish.

Wilton Non-stick Broiler Baking Pan Set

Preheat the broiler

Your broiler must reach your desired temperature before putting your food underneath the element.

So, once youre ready to cook, turn on the broiler and allow it to preheat.

[It] needs time to get up to temperature, just like your oven, explains Bond.

Woman holding an oven door open

Prep your food

Season your food using salt, pepper, and dry rubs or seasoning mixes.

Avoid marinades, which can splatter when broiled and cause your oven to smoke.

And stay close to your oven while broiling food.

P.C. Richard & Son

[The] high heat means things can go from golden brown to burnt in seconds, warns Bond.

Also, dont crowd the broiler; leave space for air circulation to ensure even cooking.

Remove the food and let it cool slightly

Remove the food once its ready using oven-safe gloves.

GE Appliances PB965YPFS…

It’s made of non-stick stainless steel, and is dishwasher safe and measures 11 x 7 inches.

Should I leave the oven door open when broiling?

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