Defrosting Tips
1. It is better to underestimate defrosting time if you are unsure. Food will continue to defrost during the standing time. 2. Separate food as soon as possible. 3. Turn large items, e.g. joints, halfway through the defrosting time, or at pause. 4. Remove any thawed food as soon as possible. 5. Remove or open any packaging before defrosting. 6. Place food in a larger container than that which it was frozen in, this will allow for easy stirring. 7. Begin thawing poultry, breast side down and turn over halfway through defrosting time or at pause. Delicate areas such as wing tips can be shielded with small pieces of smooth foil. 8. Standing time is very important, particularly for large, dense foods which cannot be stirred to ensure that the centre is completely defrosted before cooking.
Microwave Hints
� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � Always keep the oven clean � avoid spill-overs and do not forget to clean under the glass tray and the inside of the door. Preferably use round or oval casseroles with a lid when cooking in your microwave oven. Do not use metal or metal decorated casseroles. Certain plastic materials can melt and be warped by hot food. Cover the food when cooking. Use a glass lid, a plate or grease proof paper. Pastry, bread and the like can be defrosted directly in a bread basket or on a paper towel. If frozen food is heated in its packaging, the packaging should be opened. Packaging containing metal or metal decoration must not be used unless specifically recommended for use in the microwave. Remove metal clips and wire ties. Food with peel or skin should be pierced with a fork � e.g. potatoes and sausages. Do not boil eggs in the microwave oven as they can explode. Put large, thick pieces close to the edge of the casserole and try to cut the food in to even sized pieces. Always place the food in the centre of the oven. The food will be evenly cooked if you stir or turn it a few times. Always set a shorter cooking time than indicated in your recipe to avoid over cooking. The larger the amount of food the longer it takes. Use little or no water for vegetables. Use less salt and spices than for �normal� cooking. Season afterwards. · Allow a few minutes �standing� time after the oven has switched off to ensure complete and even cooking results. Always ensure food is piping hot throughout before serving. Use pot holders or gloves when taking dishes and food from the oven.
