HINTS

Always place the stems of vegetables – e.g. cauliflower, broccoli – toward the outside of the dish. The stems are tougher than the flower, so this will ensure even cooking.

Ice-cream containers were made for freezing food and are not suitable for use in a microwave oven.

Remember: When melting chocolate in the

microwave oven, it holds its shape until stirred. Heat for 2-21/2minutes per 100 g on MEDIUM. DO NOT COVER.

Jams and chutneys are great when made in the microwave, as they retain their colour and flavour. As cooking time is so short, less evaporation occurs. Therefore pectin or a jam setting agent is required to make jam set.

To obtain more juice from oranges, lemons or limes, prick skin, microwave 30 seconds on HIGH and stand 2 minutes before squeezing.

Warm jam for a quick glaze. Heat 2-3 tablespoons for 30 seconds on HIGH; strain if necessary while hot.

Soften cream cheese for dips or beating by removing foil wrapper and cooking for 1 minute on MEDIUM LOW.

To melt marshmallows, place 100 g in a large bowl. Cook for 30 seconds on HIGH.

To dissolve gelatine, mix 1 teaspoon gelatine with 2 tablespoons water and cook for 20-30 seconds on HIGH. Stir well.

To blanch almonds place 100 g in a bowl with 1 cup of water. Cook for 5 minutes on HIGH.

If brown sugar becomes hard, simply soften in the microwave oven. Place a cup at a time in a bowl with a slice of bread. Cover with plastic wrap and cook for 40 seconds on HIGH.

Soften 6-8 honey-snap biscuits for 30 seconds on HIGH. Shape into base of patty dish for quick tartlet cases.

Place a chocolate after-dinner mint on top of 6 patty

cakes; arrange cakes evenly on turntable. Cook about 50-60 seconds on HIGH, or until chocolate is soft. Gently spread chocolate mint evenly over patty cake for a quick icing.

To soften honey, remove metal lid from jar and microwave on HIGH for 30 seconds.

Stuffed mushrooms are a terrific idea. Provided the filling is cooked, twelve mushrooms placed on a layer of paper towel will take approximately 3 minutes to heat on HIGH.

To remove odours, place 1-litre water with slice of lemon or 1 teaspoon vanilla essence in the micro wave.

Cook for 20 minutes on HIGH.

As microwave cooking time is so quick, food should be seasoned to taste with herbs and spices after cooking.

To peel a tomato, pierce the skin with a fork 3-4 times.

Place on a rack and cook for 45-60 seconds on HIGH. Stand for 3 minutes before peeling.

Lightly prick the skin of chicken before cooking. This prevents the loud popping noises.

Peeling garlic is made easier by placing a clove in the microwave for 10 seconds on HIGH.

Pierce the skin of chicken livers with a fork before cooking to prevent popping of the internal fat. Cover with paper towel when cooking.

The flavour of wine in food is highlighted with the short microwave cooking time, so adjust the quantity to your taste.

Tomato sauce can be warmed for 30 seconds on HIGH to give it a pouring consistency. (ensure lid is removed.)

When cooking sauces in the microwave use less liquid: the absence of direct heat means sauces do not reduce as much as stovetop-prepared sauces.

Rice and pasta cook well in small quantities. Use a

large container to prevent boiling over.

FOIL. Contrary to popular belief, foil can be used in the microwave – for shielding, not covering. It must not come in contact with the walls of the micro wave. Foil directs microwave energy away from delicate or thin areas of food, toward areas that need more cooking. It is essential for even defrost- ing. Place foil over the thawed sections, allowing the frozen portions to continue defrosting.

To enhance the colour and flavour when roasting chicken, mix some brown sugar, honey and a little soy sauce together and brush both sides of poultry before and during cooking.

To blanch vegetables for freezing, place 150 g of vegetables in a dish with 1 tablespoon of water. Cover and cook on HIGH for 1/3 of the usual cooking time. After cooking, immerse immediately in iced water, package, label, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Do not add salt to vegetables before cooking, as salt draws out the moisture and causes vegetables to toughen.

24

Page 42
Image 42
Sharp R-390H(S) operation manual Hints

R-390H(S) specifications

The Sharp R-390H(S) is a standout microwave oven known for its blend of innovative technology, robust features, and user-friendly design. This appliance caters to modern cooking needs while ensuring efficiency and convenience in the kitchen.

One of the main features of the R-390H(S) is its power output. With a powerful 900 watts of cooking power, it allows for quick heating, defrosting, and cooking of various food items. The microwave also offers multiple power levels, giving users the flexibility to select precisely the right power for their cooking tasks. This ensures optimal results, whether it is heating a beverage, cooking vegetables, or defrosting meat.

The R-390H(S) incorporates advanced microwave technology, such as a turntable that ensures even cooking and heating. The turntable rotates food during cooking, allowing microwaves to penetrate evenly. This technology helps prevent hot or cold spots in the food, enhancing the overall cooking experience.

This model also features an intuitive control panel, making it easy for users to operate. The clear display and well-organized buttons allow even novice cooks to enjoy the benefits of microwave cooking without hassle. Additionally, it includes various auto-cook programs that simplify meal preparation. Users can easily choose from a range of presets tailored for specific foods such as popcorn, baked potatoes, and pizza.

Another highlight of the R-390H(S) is its compact design, ideal for kitchens with limited space. Its sleek, modern exterior complements any kitchen decor while its size allows for easy installation on countertops without compromising cooking capacity.

Safety is an essential consideration in the R-390H(S) design. It features a child safety lock, which prevents unintended usage and protects young children from accidents.

In summary, the Sharp R-390H(S) combines advanced microwave technology, user-friendly features, and a compact design to create an appliance that fits seamlessly into any kitchen environment. With its high cooking power, versatile options, and safety features, it remains a reliable choice for consumers looking for an efficient and effective microwave oven for their culinary needs.