Food Characteristics

Cooking Techniques

Bone and Fat

Both bone and fat affect cook- ing. Bones may cause irregu- lar cooking. Meat next to the tips of bones may overcook

while meat positioned under a large bone, such as a ham bone, may be under- cooked. Large amounts of fat absorb microwave energy 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 care- ful. 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 cooking 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.

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.

Piercing

Foods with skins or mem- branes must be pierced scored or have a strip of skin peeled before cook- ing to allow steam to escape. Pierce clams,

oysters, chicken livers, 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 without 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 SCRAMBLED 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, com- bine 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, cupcakes and appetizers, will cook more evenly if placed in the oven equal distances apart. When

possible, arrange foods in a circular pattern.

21

Page 23
Image 23
Panasonic NN-SD688S, NN-SD698S important safety instructions Food Characteristics Cooking Techniques

NN-SD688S, NN-SD698S specifications

The Panasonic NN-SD688S and NN-SD698S are two high-performance microwave ovens designed to meet the needs of modern households. With cutting-edge technology and innovative features, these models offer a convenient way to heat, cook, and defrost a variety of foods.

At the heart of both models is the Inverter Technology, which provides consistent and precise cooking power throughout the microwave's cooking time. Unlike traditional microwaves that use a turn-on, turn-off method to regulate cooking power, the inverter system delivers a steady stream of energy. This allows for evenly cooked meals, reduces the chances of overcooking, and ensures delicate items like fish and vegetables retain their texture and flavor.

Both the NN-SD688S and NN-SD698S boast a spacious 1.2 cubic feet capacity, allowing users to easily accommodate large dishes and multiple servings. The sleek and modern stainless steel design ensures these microwaves fit seamlessly into any kitchen décor, while also being easy to clean and maintain.

The microwaves come equipped with an array of smart cooking features, including the Sensor Cook function. This technology automatically detects the steam released from food and adjusts cooking time and power levels accordingly. This feature takes the guesswork out of microwave cooking, ensuring perfectly cooked meals without constant monitoring.

Another standout feature is the Keep Warm function, which helps maintain food temperature without cooking it further. This can be especially useful when preparing multiple dishes or when meals need to be served at different times.

Both models also include a variety of pre-programmed cooking options, providing quick access to commonly prepared items. With one-touch settings for popcorn, pizza, and more, users can select their desired food type and let the microwave handle the rest.

In terms of safety, Panasonic has integrated a child safety lock to prevent accidental operation, which offers peace of mind for families with young children.

In summary, the Panasonic NN-SD688S and NN-SD698S microwaves reflect the brand's commitment to innovative cooking solutions. With features such as Inverter Technology, Sensor Cook, and a sleek design, these models are perfect for those seeking efficiency, convenience, and ease of use in their kitchen appliances. Whether reheating leftovers, cooking fresh meals, or defrosting ingredients, these microwaves offer versatility and reliability, making them essential tools for any modern kitchen.