Quick Answer
You do not need to put water under the pan in a NESCO roaster. The NESCO roaster works by circulating hot air around the food to cook it evenly. Adding water under the pan is not necessary and can actually make the cooking process less efficient. The key is to use the proper pans and racks designed for NESCO roasters so the hot air can circulate properly.
What is a NESCO Roaster?
A NESCO roaster is a countertop electric convection oven designed to cook foods evenly without the need for extra water or steam. Here are some key features of NESCO roasters:
- Circulating fan and heating element provide constant hot air around the food for even cooking.
- Temperatures up to 450°F allow for roasting and baking.
- Optional temperature control allows adjusting heat for different recipes.
- Uses little counter space with dimensions around 17 x 14 x 7 inches.
- Specialized pans and racks designed for optimal air flow.
- Some models have built-in timers and auto shut-off features.
NESCO roasters have been popular kitchen appliances since the 1930s for their convenience and versatility. They can roast meats and vegetables, bake casseroles and desserts, dehydrate fruits and makeshift jerky, and more. The enclosed chamber helps seal in moisture for tender, juicy results.
Why You Don’t Need Water Under the Pan
While some traditional oven roasting recipes call for adding water, broth, or other liquids to the roasting pan, this is not necessary for NESCO roasters. Here are some of the main reasons why:
- The circulating hot air provides enough moisture and self-basting for tender results without extra water.
- Adding liquid under the pan can disrupt optimal air flow and cause uneven cooking.
- Excess moisture from water may lead to soggy foods instead of nicely browned exterior.
- Water evaporating over time may prolong cooking and use more energy.
- Specialized NESCO pans are designed not to need extra moisture.
The key to success is using the properly-sized pans and racks made for NESCO roasters. This allows the hot air to fully surround the food for even cooking on all sides. Adding water alters the cooking environment and disadvantages of the specially designed chamber.
Tips for Cooking without Water in a NESCO Roaster
Here are some tips to get the best results from a NESCO roaster without using water under the pan:
- Use the roasting/broiling pan and rack designed for your model.
- Place meat on a metal trivet inside the pan to elevate it above juices.
- Brush or rub oils/sauces over meat and vegetables before roasting.
- Spray a light coating of oil on pans for easy release.
- For moist casseroles, cover pans tightly with foil.
- Check internal temperatures with a meat thermometer for doneness.
- Let meat rest 5-10 minutes before carving for juicy results.
- Add liquids like wine, lemon juice or broth directly into dishes.
If your recipes seem to be drying out, you can add a small amount of water directly into the bottom of the roasting pan, about 1/4 inch or less. But avoid filling the pan with too much liquid or covering the rack insert completely, as this defeats the air flow purpose.
Sample NESCO Roaster Cooking Times
Cooking times can vary based on the specific cut and size of meat or other foods. Here is a general time chart as a guide for NESCO roaster cooking without water under the pan:
| Food | Cook Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken pieces | 60-90 minutes | 350°F |
| Beef roast | 45-60 minutes per pound | 325°F |
| Pork tenderloin | 60-75 minutes | 350°F |
| Turkey breast | 45-60 minutes per pound | 325°F |
| Casseroles | 45-60 minutes | 350°F |
| Vegetables | 30-45 minutes | 400°F |
Always use a meat thermometer to confirm safe internal temperatures and adjust time accordingly. Let meat rest before carving for maximum juiciness.
Tips for Making Juicy Roasts in a NESCO
You can achieve tender, juicy roasts in a NESCO roaster without water under the pan. Here are some useful tips:
- Choose well-marbled cuts of beef, pork, and lamb for the most flavor and moisture.
- Rub seasoning blends into the meat that have some oil or fat for moisture.
- Sear meat on the stovetop before roasting to help lock in juices.
- Place meat on a trivet or rack so air circulates underneath.
- Roast at 325°F which is ideal for breaking down collagen for tender meat.
- Baste roasts during cooking with pan juices if they appear dry.
- Let meat rest at least 10 minutes before slicing to redistribute juices.
- Use a meat thermometer and stop cooking when interior reaches 5°F below target temperature.
The circulating hot air will penetrate and self-baste roasts for succulent results every time. Monitoring temperature and resting time are also key for mouthwateringly moist roasts from your NESCO.
Making Moist Poultry and Fish
From whole chickens to boneless fillets, you can prepare juicy poultry and fish using your NESCO roaster:
- Pat poultry and fish dry before cooking to help browning.
- Brush with oil or melted butter to keep skin and flesh moist.
- Cook poultry to safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- For fish, cook until it flakes and reaches 140°F internally.
- For whole birds or pieces, tent with foil if skin over-browns.
- Baste poultry with pan drippings or sauce during roasting.
- For stuffed birds, use a meat thermometer in both breast and thigh.
- Avoid overcooking fish; check early and flake to test when opaque.
The convection heat allows for golden crispy skin on poultry while sealing in moisture. Fish remains tender and flaky thanks to the even cooking environment.
Making Juicy Baked Goods
From breads to cakes, you can bake moist goodies in your NESCO roaster:
- Ensure batters/doughs have enough liquid according to recipe instructions.
- Grease pans well so baked goods easily release when cooked.
- For loaves, brush with egg wash or melted butter before baking.
- Use foil to prevent over-browning on surfaces if needed.
- Make fruit pies with juicy fillings like berries, peaches, apples.
- Underbake cheesecakes slightly so the center still jiggles when done.
- Cool cakes completely before frosting to avoid melting icing.
- Store breads and cakes properly, wrapped or in air-tight containers.
The NESCO roaster’s circulated hot air prevents drying so you can enjoy wonderfully moist baked treats. Monitor doneness closely near the end of baking time and adjust accordingly.
Conclusion
In summary, there is no need to add water under the pan when cooking in a NESCO roaster. The countertop convection oven is designed to circulate hot air for moist, tender results. Special pans and racks optimize airflow for proper cooking. Follow recipe guidelines for your model and use meats thermometers for perfectly juicy, safe results. With a bit of practice, you can master moist roasting, baking, and more in your NESCO. Enjoy the convenience of delicious home-cooked food with your versatile countertop oven.