Discovering the New Panasonic Range

During a recent visit to a Panasonic Cooking Masterclass in London, I had the opportunity to explore the company's latest lineup of kitchen technology. The event showcased a variety of new releases, including breadmakers, multi-cookers, and air fryers. However, the standout device was undoubtedly the new hybrid air fryer microwave, which integrates two popular kitchen functions into a single, space-efficient unit.


The Panasonic NN-CT55RW: A Versatile Kitchen Solution

Panasonic, the original inventor of the microwave, has entered the hybrid market with the NN-CT55RW. This 4-in-1 model features air frying, convection oven capabilities, a quartz grill, and inverter microwave technology. Key specifications include:

  • Power and Capacity: 1000W microwave output with seven power levels.
  • Volume: 27 litres of interior space with a 34cm turntable.
  • Temperature Range: Adjustable from 30°C up to 220°C.
  • Ease of Use: 19 automated cooking programmes.

How the Air Fryer Hybrid Performs

What sets this unit apart from a standard microwave is its unique airflow system. While traditional microwaves rely on rear-mounted fans, this model utilizes a top-mounted fan to circulate hot air, effectively replicating the cooking environment of a dedicated air fryer. It utilizes an enamel tray and a specialized basket that sits atop the turntable, providing enough room for up to 800g of food.


Testing the Speed: Six-Minute Chicken

During the hands-on demonstration, we prepared crispy chicken using a cornflake coating. I was initially skeptical when the chef claimed the chicken would be ready in just six minutes. «Even though I cook all the time, I always get nervous about cooking chicken so I didn't believe this timing one bit,» I remarked during the process.

To my surprise, the device delivered perfectly cooked, crispy chicken within the six-minute window. This experience has significantly shifted my perspective on multipurpose appliances. For someone who uses both an air fryer and a microwave daily, the prospect of consolidating these functions into one machine is a major convenience.