COOKING

APPETIZERS / SAUCES / SOUPS

Cooking Appetizers: Tips and Techniques

Recommended

Crisp crackers, such as melba toast, shredded wheat, and crisp rye crackers are best for microwave use. Wait until party time to add the spreads. Place a paper

towel under the crackers while they cook in the microwave oven to absorb extra moisture.

Arrange individual appetizers in a circle for even cooking.

Stir dips to distribute heat and shorten cooking time.

Cooking Sauces: Tips and Techniques

Use a microwavable casserole or glass measuring cup that is at least 2 or 3 times the volume of the sauce.

Sauces made with cornstarch thicken more rapidly than those made with flour.

Cooking Soups: Tips and Techniques

Cook soups in a microwavable dish which holds double the volume of the recipe ingredients to prevent boil-over, especially if you use cream or milk in the soup.

Generally, cover microwaved soups with VENTED plastic wrap or a microwavable lid.

Cover foods to retain moisture. Uncover foods to retain crispness.

Avoid overcooking by using the minimum suggested

time. Add more time, if necessary, only after checking the food.

Not Recommended

Appetizers with a crisp coating or puff pastry are best done in a conventional oven with dry heat.

Breaded products can be warmed in the microwave oven but will not come out crisp.

Cook sauces made with cornstarch or flour uncovered so you may stir them 2 or 3 times during cooking for a smooth consistency.

To adapt a conventional sauce or gravy recipe, reduce the amount of liquid slightly.

Stirring occasionally will help blend flavors, distribute heat evenly, and may even shorten the cooking time.

When converting a conventional soup recipe to cook in the microwave, reduce the liquid, salt, and strong seasonings.

MEAT

Cooking Meat: General Directions

Prepare the meat for cooking.

-Defrost completely.

-Trim off excess fat to avoid splattering.

-Place the meat, fat side down, on a microwavable rack in a microwavable dish.

-Use oven cooking bag for less tender cuts of meat.

-Arrange the meat so that thicker portions are toward the outside of the dish.

-Cover the meat with waxed paper to prevent splattering.

Tend the meat as it cooks.

-Drain juices as they accumulate to reduce splattering and keep from overcooking the bottom of the meat.

-Shield thin or bony portions with strips of foil to prevent overcooking.

NOTE: Keep the foil at least 1 inch from the oven walls, and do not cover more than one-third of the meat with foil at any one time.

Let the meat stand covered with foil 10-15 minutes after you remove it from the oven. The internal temperature of the meat may rise from 5-10°F during standing time.

The Meat Cooking Table on the next page provides detailed directions, Power Level, and Cooking Time settings for most cuts of meat.

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Amana A CO15ZOA owner manual Appetizers / Sauces / Soups, Meat

A CO15ZOA specifications

The Amana A CO15ZOA is a compact, high-performance countertop oven designed to cater to the needs of modern kitchens. This versatile appliance combines the functionality of an oven, air fryer, and toaster, making it an ideal choice for individuals and families looking to save both time and space.

One of the standout features of the Amana A CO15ZOA is its innovative cooking technology. The unit utilizes advanced convection cooking, which circulates hot air around the food, ensuring even cooking and browning. This technology reduces cooking times significantly compared to traditional ovens while enhancing the texture and flavor of the food. The ability to air fry is another major advantage, allowing users to prepare crispy dishes with minimal oil, promoting healthier cooking without sacrificing taste.

The Amana A CO15ZOA is equipped with several cooking modes, including bake, broil, toast, and air fry, providing a wide array of culinary possibilities. Users can effortlessly switch between these modes, making it easy to experiment with different recipes. The intuitive control panel features a digital display that shows cooking times and temperatures, ensuring precision in food preparation.

In terms of capacity, the Amana A CO15ZOA is designed to accommodate a variety of dishes. Its spacious interior can easily hold a 12-inch pizza or multiple slices of bread, making it suitable for meal preparation for both small and larger gatherings. The removable crumb tray allows for easy cleanup, while the non-stick interior lining prevents food from sticking, further simplifying maintenance.

Energy efficiency is another important aspect of the Amana A CO15ZOA. Its compact design reduces energy consumption compared to larger wall ovens, making it a cost-effective option for everyday cooking. The unit heats up quickly, reducing preheating time and getting meals on the table faster.

Safety is also a priority with the Amana A CO15ZOA. The oven includes features such as auto shut-off and cool-touch housing, ensuring a safe cooking environment for users.

Overall, the Amana A CO15ZOA countertop oven stands out for its multifunctionality, advanced technologies, and energy-efficient design. It is an excellent addition to any kitchen, providing users with the tools they need to create a variety of delicious meals with ease. Whether you are a busy professional, a parent, or someone who enjoys cooking, this versatile appliance can help streamline your culinary tasks, making meal preparation a breeze.