Which Microwave Oven?
It’s a very rare kitchen that doesn’t have a microwave oven. But only 40 years ago most people wouldn’t have known what to do with a microwave oven, now they are an essential appliance in most kitchens. Microwave ovens come in various types including combination microwaves, which might include a grill, a convection heater or both. The Parmco Combiwave has grill and fan forced cooking functions as well as being a microwave oven.
Microwave ovens work by emitting high frequency radio waves that excite the water molecules in food, causing them to collide with each other and generate heat. Microwave radiation only penetrates the first inch or so of the food after which heat is transferred towarsd the centre by conduction. Uneven heating of food is common with hot spots and cold spots in the dish. Therefore it is advisable to stir the food periodically to distribute the heat more evenly. The excitement caused by the microwaves continues for a minute or thwo after it’s switched off so it’s advisable to let the food stand for a while to avoid the danger of scalding.
Microwaves do take up valuable bench space if that is where they are placed. Far better to plan a space for them in one of the cabinets either over or under the bench. Most microwaves can be housed in an opening or 600 mm W X 350 mm H but this doesn’t apply to combination microwave ovens, which can get very hot when used for baking or grilling. So do be mindful of the installation requirements of the model of your choice.
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