Helpful Tips

Tips for Great Microwave Cooking

  • Remember that cooking times vary according to the wattage of your oven. Follow your instruction guide carefully.
  • Round dishes heat food more evenly. The square corners on a dish receive more energy and the food in those corners will overcook.
  • Food should be cut in same-size pieces so they cook in the same time. If you must cook some uneven pieces, place the thickest pieces at the edge of the plate. The food closet to the outside edge of a dish cooks fastest.
  • To cook small, same-size foods, arrange them in a circle, an even distance apart around edge of the dish.
  • Never cook a whole egg in its shell - it will explode.
  • If your microwave doesn't have a liner, put a microwave-safe plate or paper towel underneath the food.
  • Glass cookware is a good choice for the microwave because you can see what's happening to the food throughout cooking.
  • Prick skins on potatoes, eggplant and squash to let steam escape.
  • Vegetables retain their natural fresh color and texture when cooked in the microwave.
  • Fish cooks in its own juices and will be moist and tender.
  • Chocolate melts easily, and there is less danger of scorching.
  • Custards and puddings will be smooth and creamy if you stir them occasionally.
  • Sugar caramelizes easily in the microwave without a mess.
  • Sauces made with cornstarch will thicken beautifully without lumps.
  • Always be careful of steam when cooking in the microwave. Use potholders to hold hot cooking vessels.
  • Allow ample standing time after you remove your dish from the microwave oven.