Sous vide cooking has gained immense popularity in recent years, and the Breville Joule Sous Vide has been a standout product in this space. Known for its precision, compact design, and ease of use, the Joule has become a favorite among home cooks and professionals alike. But with the introduction of the new Joule Turbo, the question arises: is the upgrade worth it? In this review, we’ll dive into the features of the Breville Joule Sous Vide, explore what makes it a top pick, and compare it with the Joule Turbo to help you decide which one is right for you.
Our Top Pick
The Breville Joule Sous Vide has earned its reputation as one of the best sous vide devices on the market. With a sleek, compact design that easily fits into any kitchen, it’s a powerful tool that doesn’t take up much space. Weighing just 1.3 pounds, the Joule is lightweight and portable, making it easy to store or take on the go.
Key Features
- Precision Cooking
- One of the standout features of the Joule is its precise temperature control. It can maintain temperatures with an accuracy of 0.2°F, ensuring that your food is cooked exactly as you like it. Whether you’re cooking a steak to the perfect medium-rare or gently poaching eggs, the Joule delivers consistent results every time.
- Powerful Heating Element
- The Joule is equipped with a 1100-watt heating element, which heats water faster than many of its competitors. This means you can get started on your cooking more quickly, saving valuable time in the kitchen.
- App Integration
- The Joule’s app is one of its most celebrated features. Available on both iOS and Android, the app allows you to control the device remotely, set cooking times and temperatures, and access a wide range of recipes. The app also includes visual doneness guides, which are particularly helpful for beginners.
- Compact Design
- Measuring just 11 inches in height, the Joule is one of the smallest sous vide devices available. Its minimalist design is both stylish and functional, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
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Performance
In terms of performance, the Breville Joule Sous Vide is hard to beat. The powerful heating element ensures that water reaches the desired temperature quickly, and the precise control allows for perfect cooking results every time. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced sous vide cook, the Joule’s intuitive app makes it easy to achieve professional-quality results.
However, one potential drawback is that the Joule relies heavily on its app for operation. While the app is user-friendly, some users may prefer a device with more manual controls. Additionally, the Joule’s compact size means it has a slightly lower water capacity compared to larger models, which could be a consideration for those cooking larger quantities of food.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Precise Temperature Control: Ensures consistent cooking results every time.
- Compact Design: Easy to store and portable.
- Powerful Heating Element: Heats water quickly, saving time.
- User-Friendly App: Offers remote control, recipes, and visual doneness guides.
Cons:
- App Dependency: Heavy reliance on the app for operation.
- Limited Water Capacity: Smaller size may not be ideal for larger quantities.
What to Look For in a Sous Vide Device
When choosing a Breville Joule Sous Vide device, consider the following factors:
- Precision and Control
- Accurate temperature control is crucial for sous vide cooking. Look for a device that can maintain a consistent temperature within a narrow range.
- Heating Power
- A powerful heating element will heat water more quickly and maintain the desired temperature more efficiently. This is especially important if you’re cooking larger quantities of food.
- Ease of Use
- A user-friendly interface, whether on the device itself or through an app, can make a big difference in your cooking experience. The Breville Joule’s app is a great example of how technology can simplify sous vide cooking.
- Size and Design
- Consider how much space you have in your kitchen and whether the device’s size will be a good fit. The compact design of the Joule is ideal for smaller kitchens or for those who want a portable option.
- Price vs. Features
- Determine whether the additional features of a more expensive model, like the Joule Turbo’s faster cooking times, are worth the extra cost for your needs.
FAQs
- Is the Breville Joule Sous Vide suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Breville Joule Sous Vide is an excellent choice for beginners due to its user-friendly app and precise temperature control. The app includes visual guides and recipes that make it easy to get started with sous vide cooking. - How much faster is the Joule Turbo compared to the original Joule?
The Breville Joule Sous Vide Turbo can cook food up to 50% faster than the original Joule, thanks to advanced algorithms and more efficient heating. - Can the Joule Turbo replace the original Joule?
While the Joule Turbo offers faster cooking times, it retains the same core features as the original Joule. Whether it’s worth the upgrade depends on how much you value the faster cooking speeds. - Does the Breville Joule Sous Vide require a special container?
No, the Joule can be used with any container that can hold water and fit the device. However, a dedicated sous vide container with a lid can help improve efficiency and reduce water evaporation. - Is the Breville Joule app necessary to operate the device?
Yes, the Joule relies heavily on its app for operation. While this adds convenience and features, it may not be ideal for those who prefer more manual controls.
Conclusion
The Breville Joule Sous Vide is a top-tier device that delivers precision, power, and convenience in a compact package. Its app integration makes it particularly appealing for tech-savvy cooks, while its reliable performance ensures consistent results. The new Joule Turbo offers the added benefit of faster cooking times, making it an attractive option for those who want to save time in the kitchen. However, the higher price may not be justified for everyone, especially if you’re already satisfied with the original Joule’s performance. Whether you choose the Joule or the Joule Turbo, you’re investing in a high-quality Breville Joule Sous Vide device that will elevate your cooking to new heights.
