Oven roasters, known sometimes as electric roasters, are a remarkable bit of 20th century technology. They were invented in 1931 by — surprisingly — NESCO, or the National Enameling and Stamping Company. It became a highly sought-after device that could substitute for wood-burning stoves. A versatile invention with great utility, the oven roaster remains a perfect way to prepare meat and vegetables by roasting, baking, braising, steaming, or slow-cooking.