English
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Cookw
ar
e g
uide
Cookware guide
To cook food in your microwave oven, microwaves must be able to penetrate the food
without being reflected or absorbed by the dish.
It is important to choose the correct cookware, therefore look for cookware that is marked
microwave-safe.
The following table lists various types of cookware and indicates if and how they should
be used in a microwave oven.
Recommended cooking utensils
•
Glass and glass-ceramic bowls and dishes
— Use for heating or cooking.
•
Microwavable plastic wrap
— Use to cover. Leave a small opening for steam to escape
and avoid placing it directly on the food.
•
Wax paper
— Use as a cover to prevent spattering.
•
Paper towels and napkins
— Use for short-term heating and covering. They absorb
excess moisture and prevent spattering. Do not use recycled paper towels, which may
contain metal and can catch fire.
•
Paper plates and cups
— Use for short-term heating at low temperatures. Do not use
recycled paper, which may contain metal and can catch fire.
•
Thermometers
— Use only those labeled “Microwave Safe” and follow all directions.
Check the food in several places. Conventional thermometers may be used once the
food has been removed from the oven.
Limited use items
•
Aluminum foil
— Use narrow strips of foil to prevent overcooking of exposed areas.
Using too much foil can damage your oven, so be careful.
•
Ceramic, porcelain, and stoneware
— Use these if they are labeled “Microwave Safe”. If
they are not labeled, test them to make sure they can be used safely. Never use dishes
with metallic trim.
•
Plastic
— Use only if labeled “Microwave Safe”. Other plastics can melt.
•
Straw, wicker, and wood
— Use only for short-term heating, as they are flammable.
Not recommended
•
Glass jars and bottles
— Regular glass is too thin to be used in a microwave and can
shatter.
•
Paper bags
— These are a fire hazard, except for popcorn bags that are designed for
microwave use.
•
Styrofoam plates and cups
— These can melt and leave an unhealthy residue on food.
•
Plastic storage and food containers
— Containers such as margarine tubs can melt in the
microwave.