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.

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Sharp R-395F(S), R-330F J operation manual Hints

R-330F J, R-395F(S) specifications

The Sharp R-395F(S) and R-330F J are two standout microwave ovens that bring a blend of modern technology, stylish design, and practical features to the kitchen. These models from Sharp showcase the brand's commitment to quality and innovation, making cooking more convenient and efficient.

The Sharp R-395F(S) is known for its sleek stainless steel finish, which not only adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen but also makes for easy cleaning. This microwave offers a generous capacity of 39 liters, accommodating large dishes with ease. With a powerful output of 900 watts, it ensures rapid cooking and reheating, allowing users to prepare meals in a fraction of the time compared to traditional ovens.

One of the prominent features of the R-395F(S) is its inverter technology. Unlike conventional microwaves that cycle on and off, the inverter maintains a consistent power level, providing more precise cooking results. This technology is particularly beneficial for delicate tasks like defrosting and simmering, ensuring that food is evenly cooked without overheating.

Additionally, the R-395F(S) incorporates a range of auto-cook programs designed to simplify meal preparation. These presets take the guesswork out of cooking times and power levels, making it an ideal choice for busy households. The user-friendly control panel is intuitive and easy to navigate, enhancing the overall cooking experience.

On the other hand, the Sharp R-330F J comes with a slightly smaller capacity of 33 liters but retains many of the advanced features of its sibling. With a similar output of 900 watts, it delivers efficient cooking results. This model is also equipped with sharp’s inverter technology, making it suitable for a wide range of cooking tasks, from reheating leftovers to preparing complex dishes.

The compact design of the R-330F J makes it perfect for kitchens with limited countertop space while still offering sufficient interior room for various cooking needs. Its aesthetic appeal, combined with practical functions, makes it a versatile option for any kitchen environment.

Both models feature a child lock for safety, ensuring that little hands cannot accidentally operate the microwave. This is particularly beneficial for families with young children.

In conclusion, the Sharp R-395F(S) and R-330F J microwave ovens are excellent examples of how technology and design can come together to enhance the cooking experience. With their powerful performance, user-friendly features, and elegant designs, they are perfect additions to any modern kitchen.