Cookware
One of the most attractive things about microwave ovens is that they cook food quickly. For meals in minutes, microwave ovens are perfect for people who don’t have a great deal of time to spend cooking. Technology has come a long way since the microwave oven was invented. Modern microwaves can cook a full roast dinner.
How they Work
Microwave ovens use "micro waves" to heat the food. As the waves are absorbed by water, fats and sugars, the molecules within the food begin to move. It’s the friction between the molecules moving that causes the food to heat.
"Micro waves" are not absorbed by most plastics, glass or ceramics and are reflected by metal, so never place metal pans or utensils within the oven when using the microwave function.
Types of Microwave Ovens
Solo Microwave Ovens
Solo or basic microwave ovens use only microwave energy to cook food. They are ideal for defrosting, reheating, cooking ready meals and jacket potatoes.
Solo microwave ovens are supplied with manual or touch button controls. Manual controls are fine but they don't offer the same level of precision as touch button controls.
Microwave Oven with Grill
Have all the features of a solo microwave oven, but have an integral grill fitted. It can be used as a stand-alone grill, for browning or crisping your food or in conjunction with the microwave.
Combination Microwave
Combination ovens have a microwave, a grill and a convection (fan assisted) oven that can really help reducing your cooking time. They give you greater flexibility when cooking and are generally larger allowing you to cook things like a roast, casseroles and baking cakes.
Stock Pot
Can be used for stews, cooking stock or soups.
Built-in Microwave Ovens
These offer a designer look to your kitchen and free up work top space. They vary from simple standard ovens to top-of-the-range models and are usually supplied with a fitting kit.
Power and Size
Microwave power is measured in watts, and can range from 600W to 1100W. The higher the wattage, the quicker your food will cook.
Oven capacities vary from 17L (litres) up to 40L. If you’re after a family-sized microwave you should consider an oven between 20L and 27L. The larger ovens have a larger turntable, which generally means more interior height and width. When planning which microwave to purchase always take into account the exterior size, you need to be sure it will fit on your work top.
Features to Consider
Accessories
It's important to use the right cooking accessories when microwaving, you should consider using microwave-safe equipment i.e. trays, dishes and steamers, plus heatproof glass e.g. Pyrex.
Auto Defrost
Pre-set programmes that defrosts frozen foods.
Auto Cook
Cook vegetables, pizzas or even rice and pasta by using one of the several pre-set programmes.
Multiple-Sequence Cooking
This automatically changes the cooking type during one cooking cycle i.e. microwave to grill, plus ensuring the best cooking time is used; for example, first microwaving for 5 minutes and then grilling for a further 3 minutes.
Child Lock
Prevents young children from accidentally starting the microwave oven.
Drop-Down Door
An option to consider if the position of your side hinged microwave oven causes difficulty when accessing it.
Oven Materials
Depending on price, microwave ovens will either have a stainless steel or painted interior.
Sensor Cooking
Sensors within the microwave oven detect moisture within the food and automatically adjust the power levels and cooking time accordingly.
Hints & Tips
Use only microwave-safe containers or tableware and don’t use anything with a metal trim. Never use metal containers or objects; even twist-ties as they have metal in them. If in doubt consult the manufacturer’s directions.
Covered foods should be vented this will help steam escape during cooking. When cooking large amounts of food, stir halfway through the cooking time; this will help to reduce any possible ‘cold spots’.
Leave food to stand for 2 minutes once it’s cooked as the heat will continue to spread throughout the food. Be careful when taking food out; although the container may not be that hot, the food inside will be.
Keep your microwave clean, a dirty oven will cook more slowly and unevenly. Avoid using scouring pads, steel wool and abrasives.
Running your microwave when it's empty will damage it. Microwave ovens heat food quickly so always take care when warming baby food. Never feed a child food directly from a microwave without first stirring it thoroughly and testing the temperature.
Help Lines
Supplier Helplines
Bosch
0844 892 8979
Neff
0844 892 8989
Panasonic
0844 844 3852
Samsung
0845 726 7864
Sharp
08705 274277
Swan / JMB
01733 404709
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