WHAT ARE MICROWAVES?
Microwaves are generated in the microwave oven by a magnetron and cause the water molecules in the food to oscillate. Heat is generated by the friction which is caused, with the result that the food is thawed, heated or cooked.
SUITABLE OVENWARE
GLASS AND CERAMIC GLASS
Heat-resistant glass utensils are very suitable. The cooking process can be observed from all sides. They must not, however, contain any metal (e.g. lead crystal), nor have a metallic overlay (e.g. gold edge, cobalt blue finish).
BROWNING DISH
A special microwave dish made from ceramic glass with a metal alloy base, which allows food to be browned. When using the browning dish a suitable insulator, e.g. a porcelain plate, must be placed between the turntable and the browning dish. Be careful to adhere exactly to the pre-heating time given in the manufacturer's instructions. Excessive pre-heating can damage the turntable and the turntable stand or can trigger the safety-device which will switch off the oven.
CERAMICS
Generally very suitable. Ceramics must be glazed, since with unglazed ceramics moisture can get into the ceramic. Moisture causes the material to heat up and may make it shatter. If you are not certain whether your utensil is suitable for the microwave, carry out the utensil suitability test.
METAL
Generally speaking, metal should not be used, since microwaves do not pass through metal and therefore cannot reach the food. There are, however, exceptions: small strips of aluminium foil may be used to cover certain parts of the food, so that these do not thaw too quickly or begin to cook (e.g. chicken wings). Small metal skewers and aluminium containers (e.g. of readycooked meals) can be used. They must, however, be small in relation to the food, e.g. aluminium containers must be at least 2/3 to 3/4 filled with food. It is recommended that you transfer the food into a dish suitable for use in the microwave. When using aluminium containers or other metal utensils there must be a gap of approx. 2 cms between them and the walls of the cooking area, otherwise the walls could be damaged by possible arcing.
PORCELAIN
Very suitable. Ensure that the porcelain does not have a gold or silver overlay and that it does not contain any metal.
PLASTIC AND PAPER UTENSILS
Heat resistant plastic utensils which are suitable for use in the microwave can be used to thaw, heat and cook food. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Heat-resistant paper made for use in a microwave oven is also suitable. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
KITCHEN PAPER
can be used to absorb any moisture which occurs in short heating methods, e.g. of bread or products in bread crumbs. Insert the paper between the food and the revolving plate. The surface of the food will stay crispy and dry. Covering greasy food with kitchen paper will catch splashes.
NO UTENSIL SHOULD HAVE A METAL OVERLAY - parts such as screws, bands or handles. UTENSIL SUITABILITY TEST
If you are not sure whether your utensil is suitable for use in your microwave oven, carry out the following test: Place the utensil into the oven. Place a glass container filled with 150 ml of water on or next to the utensil. Switch on the oven at 800 W power for 1 to 2 minutes. If the utensil stays cool or just warm to the touch, it is suitable. Do not use this test on a plastic utensil. It could melt.
MICROWAVE CLING FILM
This, or heat-resistant film, is very suitable for covering or wrapping. Please follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
ROASTING BAGS
Can be used in a microwave oven. Metal clips are not suitable for fastening them since the roasting bag foil might melt. Fasten the roasting bag with string and pierce it several times with a fork. Non heat-resistant food wraps are not recommended for use in a microwave oven.
