Tips & advice

1. AG-71+72D-EU English 22/11/2005 15:05 Page 10

Before you start...

To make it as easy as possible to use the microwave oven we have put together a few hints and tips for you. Only switch on the oven when the food is already inside.

Setting the cooking time

Defrosting, re-heating and cooking times are generally much shorter than in a conventional oven or hob. So you will need to consult this book for the recommended cooking times. It is better to set shorter rather than longer cooking times. Always test the food after the cooking time has elapsed. It is better then to continue cooking it for a little longer, than to have overcooked food.

Starting temperature

Defrosting, re-heating and cooking times depend on the temperature of the food when you start. For example, deep frozen and refridgerated food will need longer than food that is at room temperature. Standard storage temperaturs of food are assumed for re-heating and cooking times (refridgerator temperature of 5° C, Room temperature of approximately 20° C). For defrosting food a starting temperature of -18° C is assumed.

Cook popcorn only in special microwave safe containers. Refer exactly to the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not use a normal paper or glass container.

Do not cook eggs in the unbroken shells. Pressure builds up inside the shell and this may result in the egg exploding.

Do not heat oil or fat for deep- frying inside the microwave oven. It is impossible to control the temperature of the oil and it may suddenly splash out of the pan.

Do not heat sealed containers such

as jars or tins. The pressure inside the container could cause the container to explode. (The exception is when you are making preserves).

Cooking times

All the times given in this book are guidelines, which can be varied according to the initial temperature, weight and condition of the food (water or fat content etc.)

Salt, spices & herbs

Food cooked in your microwave retains its individual flavour better than it does when conventional preparation methods are used. For this reason you should use salt sparingly and normally add it only after cooking. Salt absorbs liquid and dries out the outer layer of food. Herbs and spices can be used as normal.

Types of use

Microwave: you can defrost frozen foods in a short time.

Combined operation: With the combination of microwave and grill you can cook and roast at the same time. Therefore, the advantages of these appliances will combine sensibly and mutually. The heat of the grill quickly seals the pores of the food and the microwave functions for a short time. The food keeps its moisture inside and is crispy on the outside. Grill: Your oven is provided with a quartz grill, which you can also use without microwave operation like any other conventional grill.

Cooking test

The cooking status of meals can be tested as with conventional preparation:

•Food thermometer: Each food has a certain interior temperature at the end of the heating process. With a food thermometer you can determine whether the food is hot or cooked enough.

•Fork: You can check fish with a fork. If the fish meat is no longer clear and comes easily from the fishbones, it is. If it is over-cooked, it becomes tough and dry.

•Wooden skewer: Cakes and bread can be tested by inserting a wooden skewer. If the skewer remains clean and dry after pulling it out they are done.