Suitable ovenware
7
UK
What are microwaves?
Microwaves are generated in the microwave oven by a magnetron and cause the water molecules in the food to
oscillate. Heat is generated by the friction which is caused, with the result that the food is thawed, heated or cooked.
Glass & ceramic glass
Heat-resistant glass utensils are very
suitable. The cooking process can be
observed from all sides. They must not,
however, contain any metal (e.g. lead
crystal), nor have a metallic overlay
(e.g. gold edge, cobalt blue finish).
Ceramics
Generally very suitable. Ceramics must be glazed, since
with unglazed ceramics moisture can get into the
ceramic. Moisture causes the material to heat up and
may make it shatter. If you are not certain whether
your utensil is suitable for the microwave, carry out the
utensil suitability test.
Porcelain
Very suitable. Ensure that the porcelain does not have a
gold or silver overlay and that it does not contain any
metal.
Plastic & paper utensils
Heat resistant plastic utensils which are suitable for use
in the microwave can be used to thaw, heat and cook
food. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Heat-resistant paper made for use in a microwave oven
is also suitable. Follow the manufacturer's
recommendations.
Kitchen paper
can be used to absorb any moisture which occurs in
short heating methods, e.g. of bread or products in
bread crumbs. Insert the paper between the food and
the revolving plate. The surface of the food will stay
crispy and dry. Covering greasy food with kitchen paper
will catch splashes.
Microwave cling film
This, or heat-resistant film, is very suitable for covering
or wrapping. Please follow the manufacturer's
recommendations.
Roasting bags
Can be used in a microwave oven. Metal clips are not
suitable for fastening them since the roasting bag foil
might melt. Fasten the roasting bag with string and pierce
it several times with a fork. Non heat-resistant food wraps
are not recommended for use in a microwave oven.
Browning dish
A special microwave dish made from ceramic glass with
a metal alloy base, which allows food to be browned.
When using the browning dish a suitable insulator, e.g.
a porcelain plate, must be placed between the turntable
and the browning dish. Be careful to adhere exactly to
the pre-heating time given in the manufacturer's
instructions. Excessive pre-heating can damage the
turntable and the turntable stand or can trigger the
safety-device which will switch off the oven.
Metal
Generally speaking, metal should not be used, since
microwaves do not pass through metal and therefore
cannot reach the food. There are, however, exceptions:
small strips of aluminium foil may be used to cover
certain parts of the food, so that these do not thaw too
quickly or begin to cook (e.g. chicken wings). Small
metal skewers and aluminium containers (e.g. of ready-
cooked meals) can be used. They must, however, be
small in relation to the food, e.g. aluminium containers
must be at least 2/3 to 3/4 filled with food. It is
recommended that you transfer the food into a dish
suitable for use in the microwave. When using
aluminium containers or other metal utensils there
must be a gap of approx. 2 cms between them and the
walls of the cooking area, otherwise the walls could be
damaged by possible arcing.
No utensil should have a metal overlay - parts such
as screws, bands or handles.
Utensil suitability test
If you are not sure whether your
utensil is suitable for use in your
microwave oven, carry out the
following test: Place the utensil into
the oven. Place a glass container filled
with 150 ml of water on or next to the utensil. Switch
on the oven at 800 W power for 1 to 2 minutes. If the
utensil stays cool or just warm to the touch, it is
suitable. Do not use this test on a plastic utensil. It
could melt.
1. AG-21+22D-EU English 22/11/2005 15:34 Page 7
