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When unsure that a cooking
con tainer is suitable for use in
your microwave, check by the
follow ing test:
1. Fill a microwave safe
measur ing jug with 300ml
(
1
⁄
2
pt) cold water.
2. Place it on the turntable
along side the dish to be
tested. If the dish you are
testing is a large dish, then
stand the measur ing jug on
top of the empty dish.
3. Heat on HIGH power for
1 minute.
Result
If the dish is suitable for micro -
waving, it will remain cool,
whilst the water in the jug will
begin to feel warm. If the
testing dish feels warm, do not
use as it is obvious ly
absorbing microwave energy.
N.B. This test does not apply
to plastic or metal based
con tainers e.g. Le Creuset
®
style dishes, which should not
be used as they are cast iron
covered with enamel.
Containers to use
OVEN GLASS
Glass that is heat
resistant e.g. Pyrex
®
,
is ideal.
Do not use delicate
glass which may crack
due to the heat from
the food. Do not use
lead crystal which may
crack or arc.
CHINA AND CERAMIC
Glazed china plates,
saucers, bowls, mugs
and cups can be used
if they are heat
resistant. Porcelain
and ceramic are also
ideal. Fine bone china
should only be used
for reheating for short
periods, otherwise the change in tempera ture
may crack the dish or craze the finish. Do not
use dishes with a metal rim or pattern. Do not
use jugs or mugs with glued handles, since the
glue can melt in a microwave.
POTTERY, EARTHENWARE,
STONEWARE
Only use if completely
glazed. Do not use if
partially glazed or
unglazed, as they are
able to absorb water
which will absorb
microwave energy,
making the container
very hot and slowing
food.
FOIL/METAL CONTAINERS
NEVER ATTEMPT TO
COOK IN FOIL OR
METAL con tai ners –
the microwaves cannot
pass through and the
food will not heat
evenly – this may also
damage your oven.
Use wooden kebab
sticks instead of metal skewers.
Quick Check Guide to Cooking Utensils
Choosing the correct container is a very important factor in deciding the success or failure of your
cooking.
Testing Dishes for Suitability
