What type of containers may be used?

Microwave function

In the microwave function, it is important to remember that the microwaves are reflected by metallic surfaces. Glass, porcelain, ceramic, plastic and paper will allow the microwaves to pass through.

Therefore, metallic pans and dishes for cooking or containers with metallic components or decorations may not be used in the microwave. Glassware and ceramic with metallic decorations or parts (e.g. lead glass) may not be used.

The ideal materials to be used for cooking in a microwave oven are refractory, heat-resistant glass, porcelain or ceramic. Very fine crystal and porcelain should only be used for a short time, to defrost or reheat foods that have already been cooked.

Test the dishes

Place the dish inside the oven at the maximum power level for 20 seconds. If it is cold or not very hot, it is suitable. However, if it gets very hot or causes an electrical arch, it is not suitable.

Hot foods transmit heat to the dish, which may become very hot. Therefore, always use a

glove!

•Pay attention to the manufacturer’s instructions that are printed on the packaging,

•Aluminium containers should not be higher than 3 cm and they should not come into contact with the walls of the cavity (minimum distance 3 cm). The aluminium lid should be removed.

•Place the aluminium container directly on the rotating plate. If the grille is used, the container should be placed on a porcelain plate. Never put the container directly on the grille!

•The cooking time will be longer because the microwaves only enter the food from above. In case of doubt, only use microwave-safe dishes.

•Aluminium foil may be used to reflect the microwaves during the defrosting process. Delicate foods, such as poultry or minced meat, may be protected from excessive heat by covering the respective ends.

•Important: the aluminium foil must not come into contact with the walls of the cavity, as this could cause an electrical arch.

Grill function

In the case of the grill function, the dish must be resistant to temperatures of at least 250ºC.

Plastic dishes are not suitable.

Combined function

In the combined function, the dishes that are used must be suitable for both microwave and grill cooking.

Aluminium containers and foils

Precooked foods in aluminium containers or wrapped in aluminium foil may be placed in the microwave oven if the following instructions are followed:

Lids

The use of glass or plastic lids or adherent film is recommended, for the following reasons:

1. They prevent excessive evaporation (especially in very long cooking periods);

2.The cooking process is faster;

3.The food does not go dry;

4.The aroma is preserved.

The lid should have holes to avoid any type of pressure from building up. Plastic bags should also have openings. Baby bottles and baby food jars and other similar containers must only be heated without the lid, as they might explode if it is left on.

The following table gives general guidelines on the type of dishes that are suitable for each situation.