Introducing the AGA eR7i
The AGA has long been synonymous with luxury, tradition, and exceptional cooking performance. Now, with the introduction of the latest AGA model, the eR7i, AGA has taken a significant step forward, combining timeless design with cutting-edge technology to meet the demands of today’s cook. This model gives you everything you love about an AGA heat storage cooker, but with the added convenience of a two-zone induction hob, fan-assisted oven, grill, and touchscreen that allows you to select from a range of cooking temperature settings.
An All-Electric cooker
The eR7i is a departure from traditional AGA models in one key aspect: it’s powered by electricity. This marks a significant shift for the brand, but it doesn’t compromise the exceptional cooking performance that AGA is renowned for. In fact, the eR7i offers the same rapid boiling, even simmering, but with a more precise temperature control than its gas and oil-powered predecessors.
Intuitive Touchscreen Interface
One of the most impressive features of the eR7i is its intuitive touchscreen interface. This modern addition allows you to easily adjust temperature settings and access a range of useful features. The touchscreen is not only functional but is also easy to use. The multiple individually controlled cooking zones make it a versatile addition to any kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a feast for a large gathering or a simple meal for two, the eR7i can handle it all. The ability to cook multiple dishes simultaneously saves time and ensures that everything is ready at the same time.
Energy Efficiency
The eR7i also offers the ability to manage energy use through its independently controlled features, all operated by a touchscreen control panel. This allows you to customize your cooking experience and reduce energy consumption. As an all-electric cooker, the eR7i is compatible with solar and renewable energy sources, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly choice for your home.
Cast Iron Ovens
The AGA eR7i’s cast iron ovens are another highlight of this exceptional appliance. The top cast iron oven is ideal for roasting and baking, while the bottom cast iron oven is perfect for simmering. These ovens have fast heat-up times for radiant cooking, taking only one hour for the best results. They use radiant heat, which is a slow and gentle cooking method that helps to retain the goodness and flavour of your food. Cast iron ovens are also known for their even heat distribution and ability to maintain a consistent temperature, making them ideal for a wide range of cooking tasks. The cast iron also radiates useful heat into the kitchen, providing additional warmth and comfort. This can be particularly beneficial during the colder months.
The eR7i Handheld Programmer
The AGA eR7i also comes with a handset which is used to programme the heat storage ovens and manage your energy use. The handset displays the time, date, and programme events, making it easy to monitor and control your cooker’s settings. The programmer is designed to conserve energy by turning the ovens off when not needed, whether overnight, during work hours, or while on holiday. This provides greater flexibility for your lifestyle and reduced running costs.
Grill
The eR7i also includes a powerful grill. The grill is located in the top cast iron oven. It can be used to sear steaks, grill vegetables, and cook a variety of other dishes. You can easily adjust the distance between the food and the heating element to achieve the perfect cooking temperature. The grill is a versatile addition to the eR7i, allowing you to cook a wider range of dishes and achieve a variety of cooking effects.
Conventional Fan-Assisted Oven
The eR7i is the first cast-iron heat storage AGA to include a conventional fan-assisted oven in the 100 model. Located behind the door in the bottom left, this oven is ideal for baking and roasting, with 8 pre-set cook settings. The fan helps to circulate heat evenly throughout the oven, and it’s ready within 12 minutes, ideal for when you need to cook quickly without heating up the kitchen.
Oven Venting
The ovens on the eR7i room vent through the three outlets located centrally to the rear of the top plate between the traditional hotplate with dome lid and the induction hob. It is recommended to have an extractor or recirculating fan above it to ensure proper ventilation and prevent any build-up of moisture.
Cleaning the Ovens
The cast iron ovens feature an Altrashell™ coating, making them easier to clean. This durable coating protects the surface of the ovens and simplifies maintenance. Plus, the stainless steel inner door liners on the roasting/baking and simmering ovens can be removed for ease of cleaning.
Cast Iron Hotplate
The AGA eR7i also features a controllable cast-iron boiling or simmering plate beneath a traditional polished stainless-steel lid. This traditional AGA feature heats up in just 10-12 minutes, allowing you to use it for quick boiling or simmering tasks without the need to leave it on when not in use, saving energy. The hotplate is manual only and cannot be programmed with the handheld timer.
Induction Hob
Next to the hotplate, you’ll find a two-zone induction hob with bridging capability. This innovative feature allows you to use the hob as two separate cooking zones for two pans, or you can bridge the two zones to create a larger cooking area for a griddle or fish kettle. This versatility makes the induction hob suitable for a wide range of cooking tasks.
The induction hob also offers a range of low temperature functions, including:
- Set to 1 (44°C): Ideal for defrosting, melting butter or chocolate.
- Set to 2 (70°C): Keep warm, once you’ve prepared food.
- Set to 3 (94°C): The perfect simmer.
These low temperature functions provide precise control for delicate cooking tasks.
The induction hob is packed with automatic functions, including:
- Boil dry detection: Prevents dry boiling and ensures that your food doesn’t burn.
- Heating up to frying temperature: Heats up to the ideal temperature for frying.
- Timer functions: Set timers for individual cooking zones or for the entire hob.
- Keep simmering or re-boil powerfully: Maintains a consistent simmer or brings food back to a boil with ease.
- Permanent pot detection: The induction hob will not turn on without a pot or pan on it and will automatically turn off when removed.
- Booster function: Provides extra power for rapid boiling.
These automatic functions make cooking easier and more efficient.
AGA eR7i Models
The eR7i is available in four sizes: the 100, 150, 160, and 210 models.
- The 100 is a three-oven model.
- The 150 is a five-oven model, like the 100 model but with the addition of a hot cupboard located on the left-hand side.
- The 160 model is also like the 100 model but with the addition of a module.
- The 210 model is the largest, combining the AGA eR7i with the addition of the hot cupboard and module, resulting in a total of seven ovens.
Vitreous Enamel Finish
Beyond its functional benefits, the AGA eR7i is a true aesthetic masterpiece. Its traditional design complements any kitchen style, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. It is more than just a cooking appliance; it’s a statement piece that will be admired for years to come. The eR7i is available in all 17 AGA colours, allowing you to choose the perfect shade to complement your kitchen decor.
Conclusion
The AGA eR7i is a remarkable fusion of tradition and innovation. It offers the exceptional cooking performance that an AGA cooker is known for, combined with the convenience and efficiency of electric power. This versatile cooker allows you to cater for large gatherings while offering precise control for smaller meals. It is ideal for busy kitchens and everyday use. With its intuitive touchscreen interface, multiple cooking zones, and stylish design, the eR7i is a must-have for discerning home cooks.