A proving drawer, also known as a proofing drawer or warming drawer, is a drawer that can be heated to very low temperatures, typically ranging from 30ºC to 80ºC. It is used to help bread dough rise properly and keep dishes warm until serving. Proving drawers and warming drawers are essentially the same thing, and the terms are used interchangeably. They can be standalone appliances or built into kitchen cabinets or ranges.
If you dont have a proving drawer, you can use your oven as a proving drawer by using the oven without turning it on. The insulation of the oven provides the gentle heat and draft-free area needed for a good rise.
Proving drawers are useful for more than just bread dough. They can also be used to warm plates, cook a variety of dishes, defrost delicate foods, and keep meals warm if your guests are running late. Some warming drawers even have a slow cook function.
Its worth noting that Paul Hollywood, a judge on The Great British Bake Off, advises against using proving drawers for bread dough. He recommends putting the dough somewhere cool with a bag over the top and waiting for it to double in size slowly, as this is where the flavor comes from.
