Microwave Terms
Covering
Shielding
Standing Time
Venting
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Helpful Information
Term
Arcing
Definition
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.
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.
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.
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 micro waved cake is not placed
on a cooling rack.
After covering a dish with plastic wrap, you vent the plastic wrap by
turning back one corner so excess steam can escape.
