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. Smaller pieces of aluminium foil can be used to cover parts that easily over cook such as chicken legs. 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. �
Microwave Tips
Softening Honey If you have a jar of honey which has crystallised, remove lid and place the jar in the oven, microwave on medium power for 2 minutes. Melting Chocolate Break 100g of chocolate into squares, place in a bowl and heat on high power for 1-2 minutes and stir well. Softening or Melting Butter Melting takes a few seconds on high power. Softening is best done more gently on low power. Freshen or Warm Bread Use medium power for few seconds. Peeling Garlic easily Heat 3 or 4 cloves of garlic on high power for 15 seconds. Squeeze at one end until the clove pops out. Fruit Juice Citrus fruits will yield more juice if they are heated on high power for 15 seconds before squeezing. Cooking Porridge Porridge is easily cooked in the serving dish with no sticky pan to wash. Follow food manufacturers� recommendations.
