If you forgot to turn on the oven and your food isn't cooking, here's what you can do:
Turn on the oven: First, make sure the oven is safe to use. If it's an electric oven, turn the dial or press the button to the desired temperature. For a gas oven, ignite the flame according to the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the oven to preheat for the recommended time.
Adjust cooking time: Since the oven wasn't preheated, you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Most recipes provide an estimated cooking time based on a preheated oven. Increase the cooking time by approximately 25% to compensate for the oven not being preheated.
Check the food: If you've already started cooking the food, check its current state. If it's still raw or undercooked, leave it in the oven for the adjusted cooking time. Keep a close eye on it and use a food thermometer to ensure it reaches the appropriate internal temperature for safety.
Prevent further issues: To avoid similar situations in the future, create a checklist or reminder system to ensure you turn on the oven before cooking. Double-check the settings and preheat the oven while you prepare the ingredients to save time.
Remember, safety should always be a priority when using kitchen appliances. If you encounter any unusual smells, smoke, or if the food appears to be burning, turn off the oven immediately and assess the situation.