Sunbeam SGA9901 COOKING UTENSILS GUIDE continued, Cooking Techniques, Not Recommended, Stirring

COOKING UTENSILS GUIDE (continued)

NOT RECOMMENDED

Glass jars and bottles -- Regular glass is too thin to be used in a microwave. It can shatter and cause damage and injury.

Paper bags -- These are a fire hazard, except for popcorn bags that are designed for microwave use. Styrofoam plates and cups -- These can melt and leave unhealthy residue on food.

Plastic storage and food containers -- Containers such as margarine tubs can melt in the microwave. Metal utensils -- These can damage your microwave. Remove all metal before cooking.

Note:

Should you wish to check if a dish is safe for microwaving, place the empty dish in the microwave and microwave on high for 30 seconds. A dish that becomes very hot should not be used.

COOKING TECHNIQUES

Your microwave makes cooking easier than conventional cooking, provided you keep these considerations in mind:

STIRRING

Stir foods such as casseroles and vegetables while cooking to distribute heat evenly.

Food at the outside of the dish absorbs more energy and heats quicker, so stir from the outside to the center.

The microwave will turn off when you open the door to stir your food.

ARRANGEMENT

Arrange evenly shaped foods, such as chicken pieces or chops, with the thicker, meatier parts towards the outside of the turntable where they receive more microwave energy.

To prevent overcooking, place delicate areas, such as asparagus tips, towards the center of the turntable.

SHIELDING

Shield food with narrow strips of aluminum foil to prevent overcooking.

Areas that need shielding include poultry wing tips, the ends of poultry legs, and corners of square baking dishes.

Use only small amounts of aluminum foil, as larger amounts may damage your microwave.

TURNING

Turn foods over midway through cooking to expose all parts to microwave energy.

This is especially important when cooking large foods such as roasts.

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