Microwave Recipe Preparation and Techniques

Covering

Covering food minimizes the microwave cooking time.

Because microwave cooking is done with time and not direct heat, the rate of evaporation cannot be easily controlled. However, this can be corrected by using different materials to cover dishes. Plastic wrap is the best substitute for a lid as it creates a tighter seal and so it retains more heat and steam. Wax paper and paper towels hold the heat in but not the steam. These materials also prevent splattering. Use a paper towel, wax paper or no cover when steam is not needed for tenderising.

Browning

Meats and poultry, when cooked longer than 10 to 15 minutes, will brown from their own fat. Foods cooked for shorter periods of time can be aided with the help of a browning sauce, worcestershire sauce or soy sauce. Simply brush one of these sauces over meat or poultry before cooking. Baked goods do not need long cooking time and therefore, do not brown. When cakes or cupcakes are iced, no one will notice the visual difference. For cakes or cupcakes, brown sugar can be used in the recipe in place of caster sugar or the surface can be sprinkled with dark spices before baking.

Standing Time

The moisture molecules continue to vibrate in the food when the microwave oven has turned itself off. After all, the molecules were vibrating at 2,450,000,000 times per second during cooking. So cooking continues even after the food is no longer being exposed to the microwaves whether in or outside your microwave oven.

Standing time refers to the time it takes (after the microwave time is completed) to allow the interior of the food to finish cooking.

The amount of standing time varies with the size and density of the food. In meat cookery, the internal temperature will rise between 5°C and 10°C if allowed to stand covered for ten to fifteen minutes. Casseroles and vegetables need shorter standing time, but this time is necessary to allow foods to complete cooking in the centre without overcooking on the edges.

The power level used in microwave cooking also determines the standing time. For example, when using a lower power level the standing time is shorter because of a lower concentration of heat in the food. Foods should always be kept covered while standing in order to retain the heat. If a longer standing time is required (while you cook another food to serve with the first, for instance), cover with aluminum foil.

Converting Your Favourite Conventional Recipes for Microwave Cooking

When adapting conventional recipes for microwave cooking, reduce the conventional cooking time by one quarter or one third.

e.g. A chicken which takes 1 hour to cook in a moderate oven will take 15 to 20 minutes on MEDIUM Power in your microwave oven.

Use similar microwave recipes to help you adapt conventional recipes. Remember, it is always best to undercook a recipe and then add an extra minute or two to finish it off.

Here are some other tips that may help:

Reduce liquids in a conventional recipe by one half

to two thirds, e.g. 1cup (250 ml) should be reduced to 12 cup (125 ml).

Add more thickening such as flour or cornflour to sauces and gravies if you do not reduce the liquid.

Reduce seasonings slightly in a recipe where ingredients do not have time to simmer by microwave.

Do not salt meats, poultry or vegetables before cooking; otherwise, they will toughen and dry out.

If one ingredient takes longer to cook than the others, precook it in the microwave oven first. Onion, celery and potato are examples.

If meat or vegetables are not being browned before cooking, omit any oil or fat that would have been used for browning.

Reduce leavening agents for cakes by one quarter and increase liquids by one quarter.

Biscuits require a stiff dough. Increase flour by about 20 percent. Substitute brown sugar for white sugar and use biscuit recipes that have dark spices or require icing. Because of the short cooking time, biscuits don’t have to brown. Chill dough for half an hour before baking. This produces a crisper biscuit. Bake biscuits on a glass tray lined with greaseproof paper.

Since microwaves penetrate foods about two centimetres from the top, bottom and sides, mixtures in round shapes and rings cook more evenly. Corners receive more energy and may overcook.

Items with a lot of water, such as rice and pasta, cook in about the same time as they would on a conventional stove. (Refer to Rice and Pasta chapter.)

Select recipes that convert easily to microwave cooking such as casseroles, stews, baked chicken, fish and vegetable dishes. The results from foods such as grilled meats, cooked souffles or two-crust pies could be less than satisfactory. Never attempt to deep fry in your microwave oven.

Cooking Guide

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Panasonic NN-MX21 manual Covering, Browning, Standing Time

NN-MX21 specifications

The Panasonic NN-MX21 is a versatile and compact microwave oven that blends advanced technology with user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for any modern kitchen. With its sleek design and 1.2 cubic feet capacity, this microwave fits seamlessly into small spaces while providing ample cooking area for various dishes.

One of the standout features of the NN-MX21 is its inverter technology, which sets it apart from traditional microwave ovens. Unlike conventional microwaves that cook food using a pulsing power method, the inverter technology delivers a consistent stream of power at all temperature settings. This ensures even cooking and defrosting, which is especially beneficial for delicate foods like fish and poultry. As a result, users can expect better texture and flavor in their meals without the risk of hot spots or overcooking.

The NN-MX21 is equipped with a variety of cooking presets that simplify meal preparation. With options for steaming rice, cooking popcorn, or reheating leftovers, it allows users to select the appropriate setting without needing to adjust the power or cooking time manually. Its one-touch sensor cooking feature automatically determines the ideal cooking time based on humidity levels, ensuring optimal results every time.

The microwave also boasts a stylish LCD display, which shows the selected settings, cooking times, and power levels. This user-friendly interface enhances the cooking experience by making it easy to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed. Furthermore, the NN-MX21 includes a delay start feature, enabling users to prep meals ahead of time and have them ready when needed.

Cleaning the Panasonic NN-MX21 is a hassle-free process, thanks to its easy-to-clean interior made from durable materials. The microwave's compact footprint allows it to fit on countertops without taking too much space, making it perfect for apartments or kitchens with limited room for large appliances.

Overall, the Panasonic NN-MX21 combines innovative technology, convenience, and user-friendly features, making it a standout choice for those seeking an efficient microwave oven that meets a variety of cooking needs. Whether reheating, defrosting, or cooking from scratch, the NN-MX21 offers consistent performance and quality results.