For a long time, I found myself wrestling with a common kitchen dilemma: how to prepare healthy, diverse meals efficiently without resorting to an arsenal of appliances. The constant juggling of a traditional oven, hob, and a basic microwave was becoming a chore, leading to less adventurous cooking and more reliance on quick, often unhealthy, options. This problem needed a robust solution; without it, my culinary aspirations would remain stunted, and the promise of convenient, nutritious home-cooked meals would simply slip away, leaving me with a cluttered kitchen and a growing sense of frustration. That’s why I was on the hunt for a versatile solution that would have helped me immensely.
Considering Your Next Kitchen Essential
The decision to invest in a new kitchen appliance, particularly one in the combination microwave oven category, often stems from a desire for greater efficiency, versatility, and healthier cooking options. People seek these units to declutter their countertops, combine multiple cooking functions into one device, and ultimately save time and energy in the kitchen.
The ideal customer for a sophisticated combi oven is someone who values healthy eating, enjoys experimenting with different cooking methods like steaming, grilling, and convection baking, but is constrained by space or time. This appliance is perfect for individuals or small families looking for a powerful, multi-functional unit to handle everything from reheating leftovers to preparing a full roasted chicken or baked goods. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate smart technology like auto programmes and sensor cooking, simplifying their daily routines.
However, this product category might not be ideal for everyone. If you already have a spacious kitchen with a full-sized oven and dedicated microwave and grill, and rarely cook elaborate meals, a simpler, more basic microwave might suffice. Similarly, if you primarily use your microwave for basic reheating and defrosting, the advanced features of a combi oven might be overkill and an unnecessary expense. For those with extremely limited counter space, even a compact combi oven might feel too large, in which case a mini-oven or a smaller, single-function microwave would be more appropriate.
Before purchasing any combination microwave oven, consider its capacity relative to your household size, the specific cooking functions you’ll use most often (e.g., steam, grill, convection), the wattage for microwave and other modes, ease of cleaning, dimensions (including required ventilation space), and available auto programmes. Also, investigate the reputation of the brand for durability and customer service, as these are long-term investments.
Introducing the Culinary Powerhouse
The Panasonic DS59 Speed Convection Oven is a remarkable 4-in-1 kitchen appliance, combining the functionalities of a microwave, convection oven, grill, and steam oven into a single, sleek unit. It promises healthier, tastier, and faster cooking, aiming to be the only cooking appliance you’ll truly need. Upon purchase, it typically includes the main unit, a crucial microwave rack, and Panasonic’s unique Grill Tray, which is designed to enhance grilling and promote lower-oil frying.
Compared to a market leader, or even previous versions of Panasonic’s own combi ovens, the DS59 often boasts enhanced energy efficiency thanks to its Inverter technology and compact design. Users of previous models have noted that the microwave function is notably stronger, and the steam function offers more options. This specific product is tailored for modern households that prioritize healthy cooking, seek to maximise kitchen space, and desire speed and convenience without compromising on meal quality. It’s less suited for those who rarely cook or only require a basic reheating appliance.
Here’s a quick overview of its strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
* 4-in-1 Versatility: Combines microwave, grill, convection oven, and steam functions.
* Healthy Cooking: Powerful 1100W steam boiler retains nutrients, and the grill tray removes excess oil.
* Speed & Efficiency: Inverter technology and combined heat sources cook food up to 60% faster than traditional ovens.
* Easy to Clean: Flatbed stainless steel cavity, flat grill heater, and special steam cleaning programmes.
* Genius Sensor & Auto Programmes: Simplifies cooking with 32 pre-set menus for various dishes.
Cons:
* Control Panel Illumination: The control panel is not backlit, making it difficult to read in dim lighting.
* Preset Limitations: Some auto programmes may not yield optimal results (e.g., baked potatoes) and custom combinations can be limited.
* Oven Temperature: Max convection temperature is 220°C, which might be insufficient for some recipes.
* Customer Service Concerns: Several users have reported issues with Panasonic’s customer service regarding faults and warranty claims.
* Potential for Defects: Isolated incidents of manufacturing defects like wobbly feet, leaks, or internal glass shattering have been reported.
Features & Benefits That Make a Difference
Having used the Panasonic DS59 Combination Microwave Oven for a considerable period, I can confidently delve into the features that truly stand out and how they translate into tangible benefits in the everyday kitchen. This appliance is more than just a microwave; it’s a multi-talented workhorse designed to streamline cooking processes.
The Power of Steam Cooking
One of the most touted features of the DS59 is its dedicated steam function, powered by an 1100W boiler. This isn’t just a basic steam assist; it generates high-density, pure steam that quickly fills the oven cavity. The experience of cooking with steam is genuinely transformative. Vegetables, fish, and even some meats retain their natural vibrant colours, crisp textures, and, most importantly, their nutritional value. Unlike boiling, where water-soluble vitamins leach into the water, steaming locks in nutrients. For instance, I’ve found that steaming fish and a medley of vegetables in just 15 minutes yields results that are incredibly flavourful and moist, far superior to anything boiled or microwaved alone. This feature is particularly important for anyone focused on healthy eating, as it makes nutritious meals quick and effortless to prepare. It truly helps solve the problem of nutrient loss and bland steamed food, making healthy eating both appealing and convenient.
Fast and Efficient Combination Cooking
The “Speed Convection Oven” aspect of the DS59 refers to its ability to combine different cooking methods simultaneously – microwave, grill, and convection. This is where the appliance truly shines in terms of speed. For example, preparing gratins, roasted potatoes, or even a whole chicken becomes remarkably faster. Panasonic claims up to a 60% reduction in cooking time compared to a standard oven, and in my experience, this holds true for many dishes. This acceleration is thanks to Panasonic’s Inverter Technology, which delivers consistent power levels, preventing hot spots and ensuring even cooking. The benefit here is immense: less time spent waiting for dinner, allowing for more spontaneous meal preparation and freeing up valuable evening hours. It directly addresses the problem of time-consuming traditional oven cooking, making it feasible to create elaborate meals on busy weeknights.
The Genius Sensor and Auto Programmes
With 32 auto programmes and a Genius Sensor, the Panasonic DS59 aims to take the guesswork out of cooking. The Genius Sensor detects the humidity and weight of the food, automatically adjusting cooking time and power levels for optimal results. While this works beautifully for many standard dishes – think reheating, defrosting, or cooking simple meals – I’ve found that for larger portions or specific recipes, a little manual adjustment or using combination modes yields better results. For instance, while the auto programme for fries is convenient for small batches, if you’re cooking a larger portion or a second batch, switching to a combination of grill and microwave settings can ensure consistent crispiness without the need for cooling down between uses. The auto programmes are a fantastic starting point for beginners or for quick, single-portion meals, making cooking accessible and less daunting. They significantly reduce the learning curve and make meal preparation much simpler.
Innovative Flatbed and Grill Tray Design
One of the most practical design innovations is the flatbed stainless steel cavity, which eliminates the traditional turntable. This not only increases the usable cooking space – a generous 27 litres – but also makes cleaning significantly easier. Spills can be wiped down quickly without the obstruction of a rotating plate. Paired with this is the unique non-stick, fluoride-coated grill tray. This tray is ingeniously designed with grooves that efficiently trap excess oil released during cooking, resulting in healthier, crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside food. This is particularly noticeable when grilling chicken or making low-oil fries. The flat grill heater also contributes to easier cleaning, and the grill tray being dishwasher-safe is a definite bonus. These features collectively solve the common headaches of limited space, uneven cooking from turntables, and laborious clean-up after grilling, ensuring a more hygienic and user-friendly experience.
Energy Efficiency and Compact Footprint
Despite its multi-functional capabilities and generous internal capacity, the DS59 is designed to be energy-efficient. Its Inverter Technology is not just for faster cooking but also for saving energy, reportedly reducing consumption by 19% during use and up to 50% in standby mode compared to conventional ovens. Its compact design also means less energy is needed to heat the cavity. While it’s larger than a standard microwave, it’s considerably smaller than a full-sized oven, making it a space-saving solution for smaller kitchens or for those looking to downsize their appliance footprint. Its dimensions (approx. 51.4W x 45.6D x 34.7H cm, with 25cm overhead clearance needed) mean it requires thoughtful placement but offers significant utility in return. This addresses the modern concern for utility bills and kitchen space optimisation, offering a powerful appliance without demanding excessive resources.
Ease of Maintenance and Cleaning
Cleaning kitchen appliances can be a chore, but the Panasonic DS59 genuinely simplifies this task. The easy-clean stainless steel interior, coupled with the flat grill and flatbed design, means there are no nooks and crannies for food to get stuck in. Wiping down the interior is a breeze, and the special cleaning programmes that use steam further assist in loosening grime. The dishwasher-safe grill tray is another convenience that cuts down on manual scrubbing. This focus on easy maintenance is a huge benefit, encouraging regular use of all its functions without the dread of a difficult clean-up, which ultimately promotes more home cooking and healthier habits.
Minor Disadvantages and Considerations
While the benefits are numerous, it’s only fair to address a few minor drawbacks observed during long-term use. The control panel, unfortunately, is not backlit. This means in dimly lit kitchens, reading the options can be a challenge, occasionally requiring external light. Some users, myself included, have found that certain pre-set programmes, like the one for baked potatoes, might not deliver perfectly cooked results and require manual adjustment or alternative combinations. Additionally, the maximum convection temperature of 220°C might limit certain recipes that call for higher heat. Lastly, while the product itself performs well, some customer experiences with Panasonic’s after-sales support for manufacturing defects (such as wobbly feet or internal leaks) have been mixed. However, these issues seem to be isolated and do not detract significantly from the overall performance for the majority of users.
Overall, the features of the Panasonic DS59 Combination Microwave Oven work in synergy to provide a comprehensive and highly effective cooking solution. It’s a robust appliance that truly transforms the cooking experience, making it faster, healthier, and more enjoyable for those who are willing to explore its full range of capabilities.
Insights from Other Users
After thoroughly exploring the features and performance of this appliance myself, I delved into what others are saying online, and the sentiment is largely positive, echoing many of my own findings. Many users expressed satisfaction with the versatile functionality, with one individual commenting how it’s “incredible” and “doesn’t feel right calling it a microwave as it’s so much more than that.” Another long-time Panasonic owner praised the steam function for fish and the “fantastic grill,” noting the convenience of the flatbed and lack of a turntable. While acknowledging the dim control panel, most feedback highlighted the efficiency of the 1000W microwave, significantly cutting down cooking times, and the joy of healthier steamed vegetables and rice. Some mentioned minor quirks like specific auto-programmes not being perfect or the unit requiring adequate space, but these were generally outweighed by the overall satisfaction with its multi-purpose capabilities and ease of cleaning.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
The perennial challenge of cooking nutritious meals quickly and with minimal fuss is one that resonates with many. Left unsolved, it can lead to unhealthy eating habits and unnecessary kitchen stress. The Panasonic DS59 Speed Convection Oven is an exceptional solution to this problem. Its 4-in-1 functionality means you gain a microwave, grill, convection oven, and steam oven in one compact appliance, drastically saving space and simplifying your cooking routine. Secondly, its emphasis on healthy cooking through powerful steam and oil-trapping grill tray makes nutritious meals effortlessly achievable. Finally, the speed and efficiency offered by its combined cooking modes and Inverter Technology ensure that delicious, home-cooked food is on your table in a fraction of the time. This combination microwave oven is genuinely a game-changer for modern kitchens. To transform your cooking experience, Click here to check out the product!