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Microwave terms.
Arcing
Arcing is the microwave term for sparks in the
oven. Arcing is caused by:
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edges act like antennas).
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rimmed dishes.
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metal pieces.
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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.
