Food Characteristics

Bone and Fat

Both bone and fat affect cooking. Bones may cause irregular cooking. Meat next to the tips of bones may overcook while meat positioned under a large bone, such as a ham bone, may

be undercooked. Large amounts of fat absorb microwave ener- gy and the meat next to these areas may overcook.

Density

Porous, airy foods such as breads, cakes or rolls take less time to cook than heavy, dense foods such as potatoes and roasts. When reheating donuts or other foods with different centers be very careful. Certain foods have centers made with sugar, water, or fat and

these centers attract microwaves (For example, jelly donuts). When a jelly donut is heated, the jelly can become extremely hot while the exterior remains warm to the touch. This could result in a burn if the food is not allowed to cool properly in the center.

Quantity

Two potatoes take longer to cook than one potato. As the quantity of the food decreases so does the cook- ing time. Overcooking will cause the moisture content in the food to decrease and a fire could result. Never leave microwave unattended while in use.

Shape

Uniform sizes heat more evenly. The thin end of a drumstick will cook more quickly than the meaty end. To compensate for irregular shapes, place thin parts toward the center of the dish and thick pieces toward the edge.

Cooking Techniques

Piercing

Foods with skins or membranes must be pierced scored or have a strip of skin peeled before cooking to allow steam to escape. Pierce clams, oysters, chicken liv- ers, whole potatoes and whole vegetables. Whole apples or new potatoes should have

a 1-inch strip of skin peeled before cooking. Score sausages and frankfurters. Do not Cook/Reheat whole eggs with or with- out the shell. Steam build up in whole eggs may cause them to explode, and possibly damage the oven or cause injury. Reheating SLICED hard-boiled eggs and cooking SCRAM- BLED eggs is safe.

Browning

Foods will not have the same brown appearance as conventionally cooked foods or those foods which are cooked utilizing a browning feature. Meats and poultry may be coated with browning sauce, Worcestershire sauce, barbecue sauce or shake-on browning sauce. To use, combine

browning sauce with melted butter or margarine and brush on before cooking.

For quick breads or muffins, brown sugar can be used in the recipe in place of granulated sugar, or the surface can be sprinkled with dark spices before baking.

Spacing

Individual foods, such as baked potatoes, cup- cakes and appetizers, will cook more evenly if placed in the oven equal distances apart.

When possible, arrange foods in a circular pat- tern.

Size

Thin pieces cook more quickly than thick pieces.

Starting Temperature

Foods that are at room temperature take less time to cook than if they are chilled, refrigerated, or frozen.

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Panasonic NN-SD297 important safety instructions Food Characteristics, Cooking Techniques

NN-SD297 specifications

The Panasonic NN-SD297 countertop microwave oven is a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation, performance, and user-friendly design. This versatile appliance is aimed at individuals and families looking for efficient cooking solutions that enhance their kitchen experience.

One of the standout features of the NN-SD297 is its inverter technology. Unlike traditional microwave ovens that rely on a pulsing method to control power levels, inverter technology delivers a constant stream of cooking power. This means food can be cooked more evenly, allowing for precise defrosting and heating without the common issue of overcooked edges or cold centers. This is particularly beneficial for delicate foods such as fish, vegetables, and sauces, ensuring they maintain their flavor and texture while being heated or reheated.

The NN-SD297 also boasts a spacious 2.2 cubic feet capacity, making it large enough to accommodate a variety of dishes, from dinner plates to casserole dishes. It is equipped with a sleek, stainless steel finish that not only gives it a modern look but also enhances its durability. Additionally, a user-friendly interface with a clear, easy-to-read LED display makes programming the microwave straightforward, even for those less familiar with technology.

This model features a robust selection of cooking options, including a variety of preset buttons for popular dishes. With options for popcorn, pizza, and beverages, users can quickly choose the correct settings without second-guessing. The sensor cooking feature is another highlight, automatically adjusting power levels and cooking times based on the moisture released from foods, taking the guesswork out of cooking.

Safety is also a priority for Panasonic, and the NN-SD297 includes a child safety lock to prevent unintended use. This feature is essential for families with young children, providing peace of mind for parents.

In conclusion, the Panasonic NN-SD297 countertop microwave oven combines advanced inverter technology with a user-friendly design. Its ample capacity and array of cooking options make it a versatile addition to any kitchen. With its emphasis on even cooking, safety, and modern aesthetics, this microwave stands as a reliable appliance for daily cooking and reheating needs. The NN-SD297 is not just a microwave; it’s a culinary companion that enhances cooking precision and provides a seamless kitchen experience.