A multi-functional microwave is cheaper than employing a sous chef, so we tested two to see if they could handle cooking Christmas dinner
Panasonic 4-in-1 NN-CS89LB
What’s the story?
A drop-down door design in glossy black with three shelves makes the Panasonic appear closer to a traditional oven than a nuke-it microwave. But it’s packing radio waves, alongside convection cooking (basically a regular oven but faster), a grill and a steam option, courtesy of a removable 800ml water tank.
Panasonic’s roast boast is a 40% faster cooking time than most rivals thanks to its Inverter tech, which uses up to three heat modes simultaneously – so you can crisp a lasagna after cooking from frozen. Being able to cook on multiple levels means you can fit more in, and there are 36 presets.
Is it any good?
While the control panel is nowhere near as intuitive as the Sage’s, this multi-function powerhouse roasted a medium-sized chicken in 35 minutes and smashed out crispy roast potatoes and honey-covered veg in just 23. It was also able to steam our Christmas pudding to perfection.
Having the extra shelf capacity meant we could cook more than one dish at once, and the manual was easy to follow. Once we knew that preset 17 meant roast potatoes, we naturally added them to a fry-up the next day too. Bonus.
Price £470 / stuff.tv/CS89LB
● 1000W microwave, grill, steam, convection (max 230°C) ● 31-litre capacity ● 50x48x39cm, 21.5kg
Stuff says ★★★★★ A smart all-rounder to make you think twice before you start preheating your main oven