Apr 07, 2006 05:52 AM
29005 Views
(Updated Apr 07, 2006 05:53 AM)
Cooking has always been my bete noire.
But one has to cook willy-nilly.
A microwave oven makes life in the kitchen a lot easier.
It cuts down cooking time.
One can get away with the use of very little oil.
Much has already been said on choosing and maintaining your microwave.
I'd only like to add that one should buy a model with 700 Watts or more.
Also,clean the interior with a soft,moist cloth.
Here are a few cooking tips from my kitchen......
Before chopping onions, top and tail first.Heat in the microwave for just a
minute.Now when you chop,you won't have tears in your eyes.
To make breadcrumbs,cube the bread first.Heat for 3 to 4 minutes. Wait till dry.
Crumble in blender and store in air-tight container.
While reheating soups use the high setting,except for creamed soups which
should always be reheated on low.
Before removing,allow food to stand in the microwave for a while.
Bread can be warmed just prior to serving.
Plates can also be warmed. Just put a little water on every plate.
A stack of plates can be warmed at one go. Put a little water between plates and
some on the uppermost plate.
To ensure quicker cooking, food should be stirred at regular intervals.
Salt should not be added to meats while cooking, as it will make the meat tough.
Always cover with a lid or cling film while cooking, taking care to leave a small air
vent.
VERY IMPORTANT - DONTS :
Never heat water in a microwave. If you must, then always ensure that a wooden
spatula is inserted in the water.
Cook eggs carefully. Shells and yolks can explode in your face.Never boil eggs in
the microwave.Always pierce yolks with a fork prior to cooking.
Never use metallic containers and aluminium foil. It will cause arcing.
Never use plastic containers. They are carcinogenic.
