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Ain't Necessarily So RSS

Putting food theories to the test with kitchen science

Broiling Up Confusion

Why—or why not—you should use the broiler with the oven open.

By America's Test Kitchen | August 31, 2011

Vegetarian Entrees

THE BELIEF

When broiling, leave the oven partially open.

THE TRUTH

The most probable reason that people believe they should broil with the oven door open is that many ovens have an internal thermostat that temporarily shuts off the broiler element if the temperature climbs too high. Keeping the oven door open, therefore, maintains a lower temperature in the oven, keeps the broiler element on, and allows the food to brown without overcooking. Not all ovens have this feature, so check your manual.

Bottom line? Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the use of your broiler for safe operation. Our recipes account for differences among home broilers by giving a time range and visual cues for doneness.

About the Author: America's Test Kitchen

We're the cooks, editors, and cookware specialists at America's Test Kitchen, a very real 2,500-square-foot kitchen located just outside Boston. Our mission is to find the very best recipes, ingredients, and kitchen equipment—we do the testing so you don't have to. Find us on our blog, public television, radio, or our many books and magazine publications. Go behind the scenes with us in the kitchen on twitter (@TestKitchen) and on Facebook.

Full Bio | Other Posts by America's Test Kitchen

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