INFORMATION YOU NEED TO KNOW
DISH CHECK
If you wish to check if a dish is safe for microwaving, place the empty dish in the oven and microwave on HIGH for 30 seconds. If the dish becomes very hot, do NOT use it for microwaving.
ACCESSORIES
There are many microwave accessories available for purchase. Evaluate carefully before you purchase so that they meet your needs. A microwave-safe thermometer will assist you in determining correct doneness and assure you that foods have been cooked to safe temperatures when using microwave- only cooking. DCS is not responsible for any damage to the oven when accessories are used.
MICROWAVE UTENSILS
The ideal material for a microwave utensil allows energy to pass through the container and heat the food. Many common household items, such as paper plates and glass or plastic bowls, are good choices for warming foods.
When a utensil is used for cooking, it must also be able to withstand contact with hot food or boiling liquid.
Dual-purpose, heat-resistant paper and plastic utensils can be used in microwave and conventional ovens. Look for materials that are marked “safe for microwave or conventional oven up to 400˚F.”Many traditional cooking containers, such as casseroles and measuring cups, are also suitable for microwaving.
Oven-glassand glass ceramic (Pyroceram®) utensils can be used for microwaving,serving and storing. Oven-glass utensils are inexpensive and widely available. Use them for measuring, mixing and microwaving. Choose clear glass for pies, cakes and breads, so you can easily check for doneness through the bottom of the dish.
Microwave-safe Dish Test. If you are not sure whether your dish is safe to use in the microwave oven, use this test. Place the dish in the oven. Measure 1/2 to 1 cup water in glass cup. Place on or beside dish. Microwave at HIGH (100%) for 1 to 2 minutes. If dish remains cool, it is suitable for microwaving. Do not use this test for plastic and metal.
Pottery, stoneware and porcelain offer the convenience of cook-and-serve versatility. Serving bowls, platters, casseroles, plates and cups are practical and attractive. Look for dishware that is marked “microwave-safe”. If you are not sure if your dish is safe to use, use the dish test above.
Plastic cookware (Thermoset®) marked microwave-safe is designed for microwave oven and conven- tional oven use and can withstand temperatures up to 400˚F. Follow manufacturer’s recommen- dations.
Plastic storage containers and tableware marked “dishwasher-safe” and Styrofoam® may be use for short-term heating to serving temperature. Do not use them for cooking raw foods or for heating foods high in fat or sugar, since they distort at fairly low temperatures. “Original” Tupperware® may melt or distort; Ultra 21® lines from Tupperware are designed for microwave use.
Plastic wrap or plastic food-storage bags should not be used for cooking.
Paper plates,hot drink,cups,towels and napkins are good choices for short-term cooking and heating. Avoid recycled paper, which may contain metal chips, and wax-coated paper cups or plates. Paper baking cups absorb excess moisture and save clean-ups. Plain white paper towels are excellent for warming breads, cooking bacon or covering to prevent splatters. Wax paper can be used as a light, nonstick cover that holds in steam; it also prevents splattering for dishes such as chili or spaghetti.
Dual-purpose paper products, such as ovenable paperboard containers, are versatile choices. They are freezer-proof and safe for both microwave and conventional ovens up to 400˚F.
Metal, such as small pieces of aluminum foil, may be used to shield small areas of food (wingtips, leg ends, breast bones) from overcooking and overdefrosting. Metal reflects energy away from food and
