Cooking Techniques

(continued)

Covering

As with conventional cooking, moisture evaporates during microwave cooking. Casserole lids or plastic wrap are used for a tighter seal. When using plastic wrap, vent the plastic wrap by folding back part of the plastic wrap from the edge of the dish to allow steam to escape. Loosen or remove plastic wrap as recipe directs for stand time. When removing plastic wrap covers, as well as any glass lids, be careful to remove them away from you to avoid steam burns. Various degrees of moisture retention are also obtained by using wax paper or paper towels.

Shielding

Thin areas of meat and poultry cook more quickly than meaty portions. To prevent overcooking, these thin areas can be shield- ed with strips of aluminum foil. Wooden toothpicks may be used to hold the foil in place.

CAUTION is to be exercised when using foil. Arcing can occur if foil is too close to oven wall or door and damage to your oven will result.

Cooking time

A range of cooking time is given in each recipe. The time range compensates for the uncontrollable differences in food shapes, starting temperature, and regional prefer- ences. Always cook food for the minimum cooking time given in a recipe and check for doneness. If the food is undercooked, con- tinue cooking. It is easier to add time to an undercooked product. Once the food is overcooked, nothing can be done.

Stirring

Stirring is usually necessary during microwave cooking. Always bring the cooked outside edges toward the center and the less cooked center portions toward the outside of the dish.

Rearranging

Rearrange small items such as chicken pieces, shrimp, hamburger patties, or pork chops. Rearrange pieces from the edge to the center and pieces from the center to the edge of the dish.

Turning

It is not possible to stir some foods to dis- tribute the heat evenly. At times, microwave energy will concentrate in one area of the food. To help insure even cooking, these food need to be turned. Turn over large foods, such as roasts or turkeys, halfway through cooking.

Stand Time

Most foods will continue to cook by conduc- tion after the microwave oven is turned off. In meat cookery, the internal temperature will rise 5°F to 15°F (3°C to 8°C), if allowed to stand, tented with foil, for 10 to 15 min- utes. Casseroles and vegetables need a shorter amount of standing time, but this standing time is necessary to allow foods to complete cooking to the center without over- cooking on the edges.

Test for Doneness

The same tests for doneness used in con- ventional cooking may be used for microwave cooking. Meat is done when fork-tender or splits at fibers. Chicken is done when juices are clear yellow and drumstick moves freely. Fish is done when it flakes and is opaque. Cake is done when a toothpick or cake tester is inserted and comes out clean.

ABOUT FOOD SAFETY AND COOKING TEMPERATURE

Check foods to see that they are cooked to the United States Department of Agriculture’s recommended temperatures.

TEMPFOOD

160˚F ...for fresh pork, ground meat, boneless white poultry, fish, seafood, egg dishes and frozen prepared food.

165˚F ...for leftover, ready-to-reheat refrigerated, and deli and carryout “fresh” food.

170˚F ...white meat of poultry.

180˚F ...dark meat of poultry.

To test for doneness, insert a meat ther- mometer in a thick or dense area away from fat or bone. NEVER leave the thermometer in the food during cooking, unless it is approved for microwave oven use.

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Panasonic NN-SD377 Covering, Shielding, Cooking time, Stirring, Rearranging, Turning, Stand Time, Test for Doneness

NN-SD377 specifications

The Panasonic NN-SD377 is a modern microwave oven that reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and user-friendly design. With its sleek, contemporary exterior and high-tech features, this appliance caters to the needs of today’s cooking enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of the NN-SD377 is its inverter technology. Unlike traditional microwaves that use a transformer to provide heating, Panasonic's inverter system delivers a consistent stream of cooking power. This ensures even heating and defrosting, making it ideal for delicate tasks like melting chocolate or softening butter. Users can bid farewell to cold spots and overcooked edges, achieving results that are closer to traditional cooking methods.

The NN-SD377 boasts a spacious 0.8 cubic feet capacity, accommodating a variety of dish sizes. Its compact design allows it to fit comfortably on kitchen countertops while still providing ample cooking space for meals. Moreover, the microwave incorporates a smart sensor cooking feature that takes the guesswork out of cooking times. The sensor detects the level of steam and moisture emitted from the food, automatically adjusting the cooking time and power accordingly, guaranteeing perfectly cooked dishes every time.

User convenience is paramount with the NN-SD377, as it comes equipped with a user-friendly control panel that includes a convenient one-touch cooking option for popular tasks, such as popcorn or reheating pizza. The microwave’s clear LED display enhances visibility, making it easy to monitor cooking progress.

In terms of design, the NN-SD377 features an elegant stainless steel finish that seamlessly blends with modern kitchen aesthetics. The sleek door and large viewing window allow home cooks to easily check on their food without disrupting the cooking cycle.

Safety is also a priority, as the microwave includes a child lock feature, ensuring that little ones cannot accidentally operate the appliance. Furthermore, its easy-to-clean interior and removable turntable enhance maintenance, allowing users to keep their microwave hygienic with minimal effort.

In conclusion, the Panasonic NN-SD377 stands out in the microwave market through its powerful inverter technology, sensor features, and user-friendly design. Whether reheating leftovers or preparing new culinary creations, it offers the versatility and efficiency that modern kitchens require.