How to use the yoghurt and rice function in your mini oven

The yoghurt function of your mini oven is one of the most underrated features of the bakeVIA mini oven. Yet it is precisely this function — together with the rice function — that makes your kitchen appliance far more versatile than an ordinary compact oven. In this article, you will find a step-by-step guide on how to use both functions correctly, which temperatures are involved and exactly what you can make with them.

What exactly are the yoghurt and rice functions?

The yoghurt function keeps the inside of the oven at a low, stable temperature — typically around 40 °C. This is the ideal environment for lactic acid bacteria to ferment milk into yoghurt. No fluctuations, no overheating: just consistent, gentle warmth.

The rice function works on a similar principle: a slightly higher, controlled temperature keeps cooked rice warm and fluffy, or allows rice dough (as with glutinous rice) to mature correctly. Depending on the model, this temperature ranges between 60 °C and 80 °C.

How do you use the yoghurt function of your bakeVIA mini oven?

1. Prepare the milk. Heat whole milk to approximately 85 °C, then let it cool down to 40–45 °C. This kills any unwanted bacteria and helps achieve a better texture.
2. Add a yoghurt starter. Stir two tablespoons of fresh plain yoghurt into the cooled milk. These are the live cultures that kick-start the fermentation process.
3. Fill the jars. Distribute the mixture into clean glass jars or a bowl. Cover with a lid or cling film.
4. Set the yoghurt function. Select the yoghurt mode on the bakeVIA mini oven's control panel. Set the temperature to 40 °C and the time to 6 to 8 hours — a longer fermentation time produces a more tangy yoghurt.
5. No preheating required. With the yoghurt function, there is no need to preheat the oven. Place the jars directly inside and start the programme straight away.
6. Let it cool in the fridge. After the fermentation period, place the jars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. The yoghurt will firm up and develop a fuller flavour.

How do you use the rice function correctly?

1. Cook the rice first. Prepare your rice in the usual way, on the hob or in a rice cooker.
2. Set the rice function. Select the rice mode on your bakeVIA mini oven. The temperature is generally between 60 °C and 75 °C — warm enough to keep the rice tender, but not so hot that it dries out.
3. Cover the dish well. Use an oven-safe dish with a lid, or cover with aluminium foil to minimise moisture loss.
4. Keep warm for a maximum of 1 to 2 hours. Longer than 2 hours and the rice may become too dry. Check in between and add a splash of water if needed.

What else can you ferment or keep warm?

The low, stable warmth of the yoghurt mode is also suitable for other fermented products. Think of proofing a sourdough starter (around 28–32 °C), incubating tempeh or keeping homemade kefir warm. The bakeVIA mini oven thus offers a remarkably broad range of preparation possibilities for such a compact appliance.

The rice function is equally handy for keeping dishes such as couscous, steamed potatoes or vegetables warm until serving — without them continuing to cook or drying out.

What is the right temperature for homemade yoghurt in a mini oven?

The ideal temperature for yoghurt fermentation is between 38 °C and 42 °C. Below 35 °C, the yoghurt ferments too slowly or not at all; above 45 °C, the lactic acid bacteria will die. A stable setting of 40 °C for 6 to 8 hours generally gives the best results. The bakeVIA mini oven maintains this temperature precisely and consistently thanks to its accurate thermostat.

Handy tips for better results

• Always use whole milk for a creamier, thicker yoghurt.
• Make sure jars and utensils are clean — residual soap can disrupt the cultures.
• Do not overfill your bakeVIA mini oven: air circulation around the jars helps ensure an even temperature.
• Keep track of the fermentation time: the longer you leave it, the tangier the result. Experiment to find your preferred taste.
• The enamelled interior of the bakeVIA mini oven is easy to clean, even if some milk spills.

Ready to get started?

The yoghurt and rice functions turn the bakeVIA mini oven into far more than just a compact baking oven. Whether you want to make fresh yoghurt every day or keep rice perfectly warm: with the right setting and a little patience, the results are consistently impressive. Browse the full function overview on the bakeVIA product page to find out which model best suits your kitchen routine.