Microwave Terms
18
29-6290
USING
YOUR OVEN:
Microwave
Terms
Term
Definition
Arcing
Arcing is the microwave term for sparks in the oven. Arcing is caused by:
■ metal or foil touching the side of the oven.
■ foil that is not molded to food (upturned edges act like antennas).
■ metal such as twist-ties, poultry pins, gold-rimmed dishes.
■ recycled paper towels containing small metal pieces.
■ plates or dishes with a metallic trim or glaze with a metallic sheen.
Covering
Covers hold in moisture, allow for more even heating and reduce cooking time. Venting plastic
wrap or covering with wax paper allows excess steam to escape.
Shielding
In a regular oven, you shield chicken breasts or baked foods to prevent over-browning. When
microwaving, you use small strips of foil to shield thin parts, such as the tips of wings and legs
on poultry, which would cook before larger parts.
Standing Time
When you cook with regular ovens, foods such as roasts or cakes are allowed to stand to
finish cooking or to set. Standing time is especially important in microwave cooking. Note that a
microwaved cake is not placed on a cooling rack.
Venting
After covering a dish with plastic wrap, you vent the plastic wrap by turning back one corner so
excess steam can escape.
