Review: The LG Neochef

A few weeks ago, I received a brand new LG Neochef microwave to review and keep. Our previous microwave was on its very last legs (we bought it 15 years ago from a friend, second hand, and although it has warmed many a leftover it was time to step down) so the timing was impeccable.

The thing is: you get microwaves, and then you get the LG Neochef. I’ve heard a few rumors about this machine, but it turned out I was even more impressed than I anticipated. I don’t like reviews that are too technical, so here is the bottom line: this is not only a spacious and beautiful microwave, it is also a smart oven. As in, a real oven that can bake, roast and grill. And you know what, it can even be a microwave and an oven at the same time, so your cooking times can pretty much be cut in half, if that’s what you want (that’s the “smart inverter technology” that LG is talking about).

The top reason I love this microwave so much is because of it’s superb, even heating. Food actually gets heated throughout (unlike other microwaves scorching the sides or completely overheating the middle). And butter actually gets properly softened (not half hard and half melted, like my previous microwave did, even on low heat).

I also love it because it is really spacious at 39 liter capacity, it truly looks sleek in a minimalist way, and it is very user friendly – it does everything I want it to do, without me searching for the booklet to look up a setting. I probably won’t end up doing a lot of baking in this microwave, only because I usually bake large quantities of stuff at once and that’s what my oven it for. But I do use and need a microwave daily and cannot do without it: for melting chocolate, for softening butter, for heating milk when baking sponge cakes, for defrosting meat, and so forth and so forth. It works like a dream – even the “time is up” tune sounds great.

The LG Neochef retails for R5499-R6499, depending on the retailer.

I’ll be doing a recipe post using the LG Neochef soon, so keep an eye out. Happy cooking!

If you want to read what LG says about their machine, here’s the full press release:

Combining a convenient design, subtle minimalism and the latest Smart Inverter technology from LG Electronics (LG), the new NeoChef™ takes culinary and microwave ovens to a new level. With the latest design trends, the microwave is both minimalistic and accessible, instantly bringing a touch of class to any kitchen. The ergonomic NeoChef features a simple intuitive control interface as well as a range of hygiene-enhancing features including Anti-Bacterial EasyClean™ that help users keep their ovens clean and fresh.

This elegant LG NeoChef has a unified tempered glass front, a refined matte exterior and is ergonomically designed with a rounded pocket-style handle and diamond cut dial weds form function to not only deliver the ultimate in precision and user-convenience, but to seamlessly blend in with the decor of any kitchen. To simplify operation, the NeoChef extends its usability features into input with its simple intuitive sliding touch control. The advanced microwave has received multiple world-renowned design awards including the 2015 PIN UP Design Award and the 2015 Good Design Award.

Equipped with LG’s unique Smart Inverter, there’s no cooking job the NeoChef can’t handle. The oven uses linear power control between 300 to 1,200 watts to evenly cook or defrost food, while at the same time preserving nutrients and locking in flavour. The Smart Inverter also boosts efficiency, as its motor has a 1200-watt maximum power output.

In addition, LG’s advanced microwave can be used to make healthy, lactobacilli-infused yogurt, and with its Healthy Fry feature is even capable of preserving the distinct taste of each dish while making them healthier, with less oil and 72 percent less fat.

The NeoChef also packs a number of features designed to increase cleanliness and streamline the cooking experience. The Anti-Bacterial EasyClean Coating makes it harder for dangerous contaminants to take root, eliminating 99.99 percent of harmful bacteria.

Equipped with a number of convenience-enhancing features such as its innovative, hexagonal turntable, as well as an energy efficient interior LED lamp that is three times brighter than conventional models, users can easily monitor the entire cooking process.With its compact exterior size, the microwave is at home in any kitchen while it is still able to accommodate large and tall dishes with its increased internal capacity.

“At LG, we’re dedicated to creating appliances with our consumers in mind, and as such we’ve developed this striking new microwave with functionality and beautiful design that will add a touch of class to any kitchen,” said Sofia Kim, MEA Marketing Cooking Team. “Powered by our unique Smart Inverter technology, the NeoChef efficiently and effectively reheats and defrosts food, decreases cooking times and makes it easier than ever for users to prepare delicious, highly-nutritious meals.”