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ENGLISH
COOKING GUIDE
MICROWAVES
Microwave energy actually penetrates food, attracted and absorbed by its
water, fat and sugar content.
The microwaves cause the molecules in the food to move rapidly. The rapid
movement of these molecules creates friction and the resulting heat cooks
the food.
COOKING
Cookware for microwave cooking:
Cookware must allow microwave energy to pass through it for maximum
efficiency. Microwaves are reflected by metal, such as stainless steel,
aluminium and copper, but they can penetrate through ceramic, glass,
porcelain and plastic as well as paper and wood. So food must never be
cooked in metal containers.
Food suitable for microwave cooking:
Many kinds of food are suitable for microwave cooking, including fresh or
frozen vegetables, fruit, pasta, rice, grains, beans, fish, and meat. Sauces,
custard, soups, steamed puddings, preserves, and chutneys can also be
cooked in a microwave oven. Generally speaking, microwave cooking is
ideal for any food that would normally be prepared on a hob. Melting butter
or chocolate, for example (see the chapter with tips, techniques and hints).
Covering during cooking
To cover the food during cooking is very important, as the evaporated water
rises as steam and contributes to cooking process. Food can be covered in
different ways: e.g. with a ceramic plate, plastic cover or microwave suitable
cling film.
Standing times
After cooking is over food the standing time is important to allow the
temperature to even out within the food.
Cooking Guide for frozen vegetables
Use a suitable glass pyrex bowl with lid. Cook covered for the minimum
time - see table. Continue cooking to get the result you prefer.
Stir twice during cooking and once after cooking. Add salt, herbs or butter
after cooking. Cover during standing time.
Food
Portion
Power
Time
(min.)
Standing
time (min.)
Instructions
Spinach
150 g
600 W
4½-5½
2-3
Add 15 ml (1
tablespoon) cold
water.
Broccoli
300 g
600 W
9-10
2-3
Add 30 ml (2
tbsp.) cold water.
Peas
300 g
600 W
7½-8½
2-3
Add 15 ml (1
tbsp.) cold water.
Green beans
300 g
600 W
8-9
2-3
Add 30 ml (2
tbsp.) cold water.
Mixed vegetables
(carrots/peas/
corn)
300 g
600 W
7½-8½
2-3
Add 15 ml (1
tbsp.) cold water.
Mixed vegetables
(chinese style)
300 g
600 W
8-9
2-3
Add 15 ml (1
tbsp.) cold water.
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