MICROWAVE COOKING ADVICE
Microwaves cook food faster than conventional cooking. It is therefore essential that certain techniques are followed
to ensure good results. Many of the following techniques are similar to those used in conventional cooking.
WARNING: Liquids and foods must not be heated in sealed containers or jars/containers with lids on, as
pressure will build up inside and may cause the jar/container to explode.
COOKING ADVICE NOTES:
• Always attend the oven when in use.
• Ensure that the utensils are suitable for use in a microwave oven.
• Only use microwave popcorn within the recommended packaging (follow the manufacturers instructions). Never
use oil unless specifi ed by the manufacturer and never cook for longer than instructed.
WARNING: If you exceed recommended cooking times and use power levels that are too high, food
may overheat, burn and, in extreme circumstances, catch fi re and damage the oven.
Arrange
Place the thickest parts of food towards the outside of the dish. e.g. Chicken drumsticks.
Foods that are placed towards the outside of the dish will receive more energy, so cook quicker, than those in the
centre.
Cover
Certain foods benefi t from being covered during microwave cooking.
Use vented microwave cling fi lm or a suitable lid.
Pierce
Foods with a shell, skin or membrane must be pierced in several places before cooking or reheating as steam will build
up and may cause food to explode. e.g. Potatoes, Fish, Chicken, Sausages.
NOTE: Eggs should not be heated using microwave power as they may explode, even after cooking has ended. e.g.
poached, fried, hard boiled.
Stir, turn and rearrange
For even cooking it is essential to stir, turn and rearrange food during cooking. Always stir and rearrange from the
outside towards the centre.
Stand
Standing time is necessary after cooking so it enables the heat to disperse equally throughout the food.
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