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When unsure that a cooking
container is suitable for use in
your microwave, check by the
following test:
1. Fill a microwave safe
measuring jug with 300ml
(
1
⁄
2
pt) cold water.
2. Place it on the turntable
alongside the dish to be
tested. If the dish you are
testing is a large dish, then
stand the measuring 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 obviously
absorbing microwave energy.
N.B. This test does not apply
to plastic or metal based
containers 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 temperature 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
down the cooking of food.
FOIL/METAL CONTAINERS
NEVER ATTEMPT TO
COOK IN FOIL OR
METAL containers –
the microwaves
cannot pass through
and the food will not
heat evenly – this may
also damage your
oven. Small items in
shallow foil containers can be REHEATED in
the microwave, but take care that containers
do not touch the oven walls or door. Use
wooden kebab sticks instead of metal skewers.
DO NOT RE-USE FOIL CONTAINERS AS
THEY MAY BECOME DENTED OR
DAMAGED AND ARCING MAY OCCUR.
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
