How to Use Anova Perforated Pan and Silicone Mat Together
By Sous Vide and Combi Oven Cooking - Anova Culinary | Published: 2026-10-15
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to pair the Anova Perforated Pan with the Silicone Baking Mat for crispy results and easy cleanup. Step-by-step guide with common mistakes to avoid.
Quick Answer
Use the Anova Precision Silicone Baking Mat when you want a non-stick surface for delicate foods or easy cleanup, and use the Anova Precision Perforated Pan alone when you need maximum airflow for crisping. To use them together, place the silicone mat on a solid surface (like a sheet pan) and set the perforated pan on top only if you need a barrier; otherwise, keep the perforated pan bare for best crisping.
When to Use Each Accessory
The Anova Precision Perforated Pan is designed for the Anova Precision Oven. Its vented surface exposes food to more heat and airflow, which speeds cooking and helps achieve crispy results. Use it for roasted vegetables, air-fried meats, or reheating bread. The Anova Precision Silicone Baking Mat is a non-stick, reusable liner that replaces parchment paper or foil. It is ideal for sticky foods, delicate items like fish, or any time you want to avoid scrubbing. However, the mat blocks airflow, so it is not suitable for foods that need crisping on the bottom. Choose based on your goal: crisping calls for the perforated pan alone; non-stick convenience calls for the silicone mat on a solid pan.
How to Use Them Together (If You Must)
In most cases, you should not combine the perforated pan and silicone mat because the mat defeats the pan's airflow advantage. But if you need a non-stick surface and still want some airflow, you can place the silicone mat on a solid baking sheet and set the perforated pan on top. This creates a barrier that prevents drips while allowing some heat circulation around the food. Use this setup for foods that tend to stick, like marinated chicken or sticky glazes, but expect less crisping than with the bare perforated pan. Always ensure the mat lies flat and does not block the pan's holes.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Both accessories are easy to clean. The silicone mat is dishwasher safe and can be wiped clean; avoid using sharp utensils that can cut it. The perforated pan is warp-resistant steel and should be hand washed to preserve its finish. Do not use abrasive cleaners on either. For stubborn residue on the mat, soak in warm soapy water. The pan's holes can trap food; use a brush to clean them. Regular maintenance ensures longevity and consistent performance.
Step-by-Step: Using the Perforated Pan and Silicone Mat
- Preheat Your Anova Precision Oven: Set the oven to the desired temperature and mode (e.g., bake, air fry, or steam). Preheating ensures even cooking from the start. Checkpoint: Oven reaches temperature before adding food.
- Choose Your Setup: For crisping: use the perforated pan alone. For non-stick: place the silicone mat on a solid baking sheet. To combine: put the mat on a solid sheet, then set the perforated pan on top. Common mistake: Using the mat directly on the perforated pan blocks airflow and prevents crisping.
- Arrange Food in a Single Layer: Spread food evenly without overlapping. For the perforated pan, ensure pieces are not blocking holes. For the mat, leave space between items. Checkpoint: Food cooks evenly and browns consistently.
- Cook According to Your Recipe: Follow your recipe's time and temperature, but monitor for doneness. The perforated pan may cook faster due to increased airflow. Common mistake: Overcooking because you didn't account for faster cooking times.
- Clean Up: Let accessories cool, then wash the silicone mat with soap and water or in the dishwasher. Hand wash the perforated pan to maintain its finish. Next step: Store flat or hang to dry.
Product Facts
- Anova Precision™ Silicone Baking Mat: Durable, food-grade silicone mat is naturally non-stick, eliminating the need for one-time-use parchment paper or tin foil. Saves money and reduces waste; ideal for sticky foods and easy cleanup.
- Anova Precision™ Perforated Pan: Made specifically for the Anova Precision Oven with a vented surface, allowing your food to experience maximum surface area exposure to heat. Promotes even cooking and crisping; perfect for vegetables, breads, and air-fried meats.
- Anova Precision™ Baking Steel: Designed specifically to fit perfectly inside the Anova Precision Oven, providing the most solid oven cooking surface around. Stores and transfers heat quickly and evenly; excellent for artisanal breads and pizzas.
