AEG MC2661E Tips & advice, Metal, Utensil Suitability Test, Before you start, Suitable ovenware

Suitable ovenware

Metal

Generally speaking, metal should not be used, since microwaves do not pass through metal and therefore

cannot reach the food. There are, however, exceptions: small strips of aluminium foil may be used to cover certain parts of the food, so that these do not thaw too quickly or begin to cook (e.g. chicken wings). Small metal skewers and aluminium containers (e.g. of ready- cooked meals) can be used. They must, however, be small in relation to the food, e.g. aluminium

containers must be at least 2/3 to 3/4 filled with food. It is recommended that you transfer the food into a dish suitable for use in the microwave.

When using aluminium containers or other metal utensils there must be a gap of approx. 2 cms between them and the walls of the cooking area, otherwise the walls could be damaged by possible arcing.

No utensil should have a metal overlay metal parts

such as screws, bands or handles.

UTENSIL SUITABILITY TEST

If you are not sure whether your utensil is suitable for use in your microwave oven, carry out the following test: Place the utensil into the oven. Place a glass

container filled with 150 ml of water on or next to the utensil. Switch on the oven at 900 W power for 1 to 2 minutes. If the utensil stays cool or just warm to the touch, it is suitable. Do not use this test on a plastic utensil. It could melt.

Tips & advice

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 to then 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 refrigerated food will need longer than food that is at room temperature. Standard storage temperatures of food are assumed for re-heating and cooking times (refrigerator temperature of 5° C, room temperature of approximately 20° C). For defrosting food a starting temperature of approximately -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 their unbroken shells. Pressure builds up inside the shell and this may result in the egg exploding. Prick the yolk before you cook it.

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).

All indicated cooking times...

are guidelines only. Cooking times may vary depending on starting temperature, the weight and composition (water, fat content, etc) of the food.

Salt, herbs and spices

Food cooked in the microwave oven retains its taste better than with conventional cooking methods. Use salt sparingly and as a rule only add salt after the food has cooked. Salt binds liquids and dries out the surface of food. Herbs and spices can be used as normal.

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