How it Works
AEG-Electrolux
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EMS2685
User Manual
44 pgs1.15 Mb0

AEG-Electrolux EMS2685, EMS2685K, EMS2685X, EMS2685B User Manual

Model EMS2685
INSTRUCTION BOOK
MICROWAVE OVEN WITH GRILL
1. EX-72D-UK English 09/02/2006 13:47 Page A
1. EX-72D-UK English 09/02/2006 13:47 Page B
Important safety instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 - 4
Oven & accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Control panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Before operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Setting the clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Suitable ovenware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 - 9
Tips & advice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 - 13
Microwave power levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Grill & dual grill cooking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Other convenient functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 - 18
Auto cook & defrost operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 - 20
Auto cook & defrost charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 - 23
Recipes for auto cook menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 - 25
Care & cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Service & spare parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
Guarantee conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Important information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
1
CONTENTS
The symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product may not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local city office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.
1. EX-72D-UK English 09/02/2006 13:47 Page 1
2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
To avoid the danger of fire
The microwave oven should not be left unattended during operation. Power levels that are too high or cooking times that are too long may overheat foods resulting in a fire.
The electrical outlet must be readily accessible so that the unit can be unplugged easily in an emergency. Do not store or use the oven outdoors.
If food being heated begins to smoke, DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR. Turn off and unplug the oven and wait until the food has stopped smoking. Opening the door while food is smoking may cause a fire.
Only use microwave-safe containers and utensils. See Page 8 - 9.
Do not leave the oven unattended when using disposable plastic, paper or other combustible food containers.
Clean the waveguide cover, the oven cavity, the turntable and turntable support after use. These must be dry and free from grease. Built-up grease may overheat and begin to smoke or catch fire.
Do not place flammable materials near the oven or ventilation openings. Do not block the ventilation openings. Remove all metallic seals, wire twists, etc., from food and food packages. Arcing on metallic surfaces may cause a fire. Do not use the microwave oven to heat oil for deep frying. The temperature cannot be controlled and the oil may catch fire. To make popcorn, only use special microwave popcorn makers. Do not store food or any other items inside the oven. Check the settings after you start the oven to ensure the oven is operating as desired. See the corresponding hints in this operation manual.
To avoid the possibility of injury
WARNING:
Do not operate the oven if it is damaged or malfunctioning. Check the following before use: a)The door; make sure the door closes properly
and ensure it is not misaligned or warped.
b)The hinges and safety door latches; check to
make sure they are not broken or loose.
c)The door seals and sealing surfaces; ensure
that they have not been damaged.
d)Inside the oven cavity or on the door; make
sure there are no dents.
e)The power supply cord and plug; ensure that
they are not damaged.
Never adjust , repair or modify the oven yourself. It is hazardous for anyone other than a competent person to carry out any service or repair operation which involves the removal of a cover which gives protection against exposure to microwave energy.
Do not operate the oven with the door open or alter the door safety latches in any way. Do not operate the oven if there is an object between the door seals and sealing surfaces.
Do not allow grease or dirt to build up on the door seals and adjacent parts. Follow instructions for “Care & Cleaning”, Page 35. Failure to maintain the oven in a clean condition could lead to a deterioration of the surface that could adversely affect the life of the appliance and possibly result in a hazardous situation.
Individuals with PACEMAKERS should check with their doctor or the manufacturer of the pacemaker for precautions regarding microwave ovens.
To avoid the possibility of electric shock
Under no circumstances should you remove the outer cabinet. Never spill or insert any objects into the door lock openings or ventilation openings. In the event of a spill, turn off and unplug the oven immediately and call your local Service Force Centre.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS: READ CAREFULLY AND KEEP FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
1. EX-72D-UK English 09/02/2006 13:47 Page 2
3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Pierce the skin of such foods as potatoes, sausages and fruit before cooking, or they may explode.
To avoid the possibility of burns
Use pot holders or oven gloves when removing food from the oven to prevent burns. Always open containers, popcorn makers, oven cooking bags, etc., away from the face and hands to avoid steam burns.
To avoid burns, always test food temperature and stir before serving and pay special attention to the temperature of food and drink given to babies, children or the elderly.
Temperature of the container is not a true indication of the temperature of the food or drink; always check the food temperature. Always stand back from the oven door when opening to avoid burns from escaping steam and heat. Slice stuffed baked foods after heating to release steam and avoid burns. Keep children away from the door and accessible parts that may become hot when the grill is in use. Children should be kept away to prevent them burning themselves. Do not touch the oven door, outer cabinet, rear cabinet, oven cavity, ventilation openings, accessories and dishes during GRILL mode, DUAL GRILL mode and AUTO COOK operation as they will become hot. Before cleaning make sure they are not hot.
To avoid misuse by children
WARNING: Only allow children to use the oven without supervision when adequate instructions have been given so that the child is able to use the oven in a safe way and understands the hazards of improper use.
Do not lean or swing on the oven door. Do not play with the oven or use it as a toy. Children should be taught all important safety instructions: use of pot holders, careful removal of food coverings; paying special attention to packaging (e.g. self-heating materials) designed to make food crisp, as they may be extra hot.
Do not immerse the power supply cord or plug in water or any other liquid. Do not allow the power supply cord to run over any hot or sharp surfaces, such as the hot air vent area at the top rear of the oven. Do not attempt to replace the oven lamp yourself or allow anyone who is not authorised by Service Force to do so. If the oven lamp fails, please consult your dealer or contact your local Service Force Centre. If the power supply cord of this appliance is damaged, it must be replaced with a special cord. The exchange must be made by an authorised Service Force technician.
To avoid the possibility of explosion and sudden boiling:
WARNING: Liquids and other foods must not be heated in sealed containers since they are liable to explode.
Never use sealed containers. Remove seals and lids before use. Sealed containers can explode due to a build up of pressure even after the oven has been turned off. Take care when microwaving liquids. Use a wide­mouthed container to allow bubbles to escape.
Microwave heating of beverages can result in delayed eruptive boiling, therefore care has to be taken when handling the container.
To prevent sudden eruption of boiling liquid and possible scalding:
1. Stir liquid prior to heating/reheating.
2. It is advisable to insert a glass rod or similar
utensil into the liquid whilst reheating.
3. Let liquid stand for at least 20 seconds in the oven
at the end of cooking time to prevent delayed eruptive boiling.
Do not cook eggs in their shells, and whole hard boiled eggs should not be heated in microwave ovens since they may explode even after microwave cooking has ended. To cook or reheat eggs which have not been scrambled or mixed, pierce the yolks and the whites, or the eggs may explode. Shell and slice hard boiled eggs before reheating them in the microwave oven.
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4
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
To prevent the turntable from breaking: (a) Before cleaning the turntable with water, leave the
turntable to cool.
(b)Do not put hot foods or hot utensils on a cold
turntable.
(c) Do not put cold foods or cold utensils on a hot
turntable. Do not place anything on the outer cabinet during operation. Do not use plastic containers for microwaving if the oven is still hot from using the GRILL mode, DUAL GRILL mode and AUTO COOK operation because they may melt. Plastic containers must not be used during above modes unless the container manufacturer says they are suitable.
NOTE:
If you are unsure how to connect your oven, please consult an authorised, qualified electrician. Neither the manufacturer nor the dealer can accept any liability for damage to the oven or personal injury resulting from failure to observe the correct electrical connection procedure. Water vapour or drops may occasionally form on the oven walls or around the door seals and sealing surfaces. This is a normal occurrence and is not an indication of microwave leakage or a malfunction.
Other warnings
Never modify the oven in any way. This oven is for home food preparation only and may only be used for cooking food. It is not suitable for commercial or laboratory use.
To promote trouble-free use of your oven and avoid damage.
Never operate the oven when it is empty except where recommended in the operation manual, see page 16 note 2. Doing so may damage the oven. When using a browning dish or self-heating material, always place a heat-resistant insulator such as a porcelain plate under it to prevent damage to the turntable and turntable support due to heat stress. The preheating time specified in the dish’s instructions must not be exceeded. Do not use metal utensils, which reflect microwaves and may cause electrical arcing. Do not put cans in the oven. Only use the turntable and the turntable support designed for this oven. Do not operate the oven without the turntable.
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5
OVEN & ACCESSORIES
18
19
ACCESSORIES:
Check to make sure the following accessories are provided:
(16) Turntable (17) Turntable support (18) High rack (19) Low rack (20) 4 fixing screws (not shown)
Place the turntable support in the seal packing on the floor of the cavity. Then place the turntable on the turntable support. To avoid turntable damage, ensure dishes or containers are lifted clear of the turntable rim when removing them from the oven.
NOTE: When you order accessories, please mention two items: part name and model name to your dealer or
local Service Force Centre.
1 Grill heating element 2 Front trim 3 Oven lamp 4 Control panel 5 Door opening button 6 Waveguide cover 7 Oven cavity 8 Seal packing 9 Door seals and sealing surfaces 10 Fixing points (4 points) 11 Ventilation openings 12 Outer cover 13 Rear cabinet 14 Power supply cord support clips 15 Power supply cord
16
17
1 2
3
4
5
67
89
11
12
14
15
13
10
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6
CONTROL PANEL
1 Digital Display 2 Indicators
The appropriate indicator will flash or light up, just above each symbol according to the instruction. When an indicator is flashing, press the appropriate button (having the same symbol) or carry out the necessary operation.
Stir
Turn over
Weight/power level
Grill
Microwave
Cooking in progress
3 TIMER/WEIGHT/POWER knob 4 AUTO COOK button
Press to select one of the 2 automatic programmes.
5 AUTO COOK PLUS GRILL 1 button
Press to select one of the 2 automatic programmes.
6 AUTO COOK PLUS GRILL 2 button
Press to select one of the 4 automatic programmes.
7 AUTO DEFROST button
Press to select one of the 4 automatic programmes.
8 COOKING MODE button
Press to select either microwave, grill or dual grill, or use to set the clock.
1. press once to select microwave function.
2. press twice to select the grill.
3. press three times to select dual grill mode, microwave with grill.
9 START/+30 button 10 STOP button 11 DOOR OPENING button
1
2
3
4 5
6 7
8
9
10
11
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7
BEFORE OPERATION
SETTING THE CLOCK
Plug in the oven.
1. The oven display will flash:
2. Press the STOP button, the display will show:
3. To set the clock, see below.
4. Heat the oven without food. (See page 16 note 2).
Using the STOP button Use the STOP button to:
1. Erase a mistake during programming.
2. Stop the oven temporarily during cooking.
3. Cancel a programme during cooking, touch twice.
x1
1. Choose the clock function.
(12 hour clock).
Choose the 24 hour clock.
3. Press the COOKING MODE button to change
from hours to minutes.
4. Set the minutes. Rotate the TIMER/WEIGHT/POWER
knob until the correct minute is displayed (35).
5. Press the COOKING MODE button to start
the clock.
2. Set the hours. Rotate the TIMER/WEIGHT/ POWER knob until the correct hour is
displayed (23).
x1 and hold for 3 seconds
x1
x1 x1
Example:
To set the 24 hour clock to 23:35.
There are two setting modes: 12 hour clock and 24 hour clock.
1.
To set the 12 hour clock, hold the COOKING MODE
button down for 3
seconds. will appear in the display.
2. To set the 24 hour clock, press the
COOKING MODE
button once more
after Step 1, in the example below will appear in the display.
x1 and hold for 3 secs.
To set the clock, follow the example below.
NOTES:
1. You can rotate the TIMER/WEIGHT/POWER
knob clockwise or counter-clockwise.
2. Press the STOP button if you make a mistake
during programming.
3. If the electrical power supply to your microwave oven is interrupted, the display will intermittently
show after the power is reinstated. If this occurs during cooking, the programme will be erased. The time of day will also be erased.
4. When you want to reset the time of day, follow the above example again.
2. EX-72D UK ENGLISH 09/02/2006 13:47 Page 7
WHAT ARE MICROWAVES?
SUITABLE OVENWARE
8
KITCHEN PAPER
Can be used to absorb any moisture which occurs in short heating methods, e.g. of bread or products in bread crumbs. Insert the paper between the food and the revolving plate. The surface of the food will stay crispy and dry. Covering greasy food with kitchen paper will catch splashes.
MICROWAVE CLING FILM
This, or heat-resistant film, is very suitable for covering or wrapping. Please follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
ROASTING BAGS
Can be used in a microwave oven. Metal clips are not suitable for fastening them since the roasting bag foil might melt. Fasten the roasting bag with string and pierce it several times with a fork. Non heat­resistant food wraps are not recommended for use in a microwave oven.
THE RIGHT UTENSILS FOR COMBINED OPERATION
For combined operation (Microwave + grill) and grill operation, you can use any heat-resistant accessories, e. g. porcelain, pottery, glass. It is possible to use metal accessories only for a simple grill operation.
Like radio and television waves, microwaves are electromagnetic waves. Microwaves are produced by a magnetron inside the microwave oven, and these vibrate the molecules of water present in the food. The friction this causes produces heat, which ensures that the food is defrosted, heated or cooked through. The secret of the reduced cooking times is the fact that the microwaves penetrate the food from every direction. Energy is used to the full. In comparison, the energy from a conventional hob passes from the burner through the pan and so to the food. This method wastes a great deal of energy.
THE CHARACTERISTICS OF MICROWAVES
Microwaves penetrate all non-metal objects made of glass, china, earthenware, plastic, wood or paper. This is why the microwaves never make these materials hot. Dishes become hot only because the food inside them is hot. The food absorbs the microwaves and is heated. Microwaves cannot pass through objects made of metal and so they are deflected. For this reason metal objects are not normally suitable for microwave cookery. There are exceptions where you can actually make use of the fact that the microwaves cannot pass through metal. If you cover food with aluminium foil at specific points while it is defrosting or cooking, you can prevent those parts from getting too warm, too hot, or overcooked. Please check out the advice given in the guide.
GLASS & CERAMIC GLASS
Heat-resistant glass utensils are very suitable. The cooking process can be observed from all sides. They must not, however, contain any metal (e.g. lead crystal), nor have a metallic overlay (e.g. gold edge, cobalt blue finish).
CERAMICS
Generally very suitable. Ceramics must be glazed, since with unglazed ceramics moisture can get into the ceramic. Moisture causes the material to heat up and may make it shatter. If you are not certain whether your utensil is suitable for the microwave, carry out the utensil suitability test. (See page 9).
PORCELAIN
Very suitable. Ensure that the porcelain does not have a gold or silver overlay and that it does not contain any metal.
PLASTIC UTENSILS
Heat resistant plastic utensils which are suitable for use in the microwave can be used to thaw, heat and cook food. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
PAPER UTENSILS
Heat resistant paper made for use in a microwave oven is also suitable. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
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SUITABLE OVENWARE
9
BROWNING DISH
A special microwave dish made from ceramic glass with a metal alloy base, which allows food to be browned. When using the browning dish a suitable insulator, e.g. a porcelain plate, must be placed between the turntable and the browning dish. Be careful to adhere exactly to the pre-heating time given in the manufacturer's instructions. Excessive pre­heating can damage the turntable and the turntable stand or can trigger the safety-device which will switch off the oven.
METAL
Generally speaking, metal should not be used, since microwaves do not pass through metal and therefore cannot reach the food. There are, however, exceptions: small strips of aluminium foil may be used to cover certain parts of the food, so that these do not thaw too quickly or begin to cook (e.g. chicken wings). Small metal skewers and aluminium containers (e.g. of readycooked meals) can be used. They must, however, be small in relation to the food,
e.g. aluminium containers must be at least
2
/
3
to
3
/
4
filled with food. It is recommended that you transfer the food into a dish suitable for use in the microwave. When using aluminium containers or other metal utensils there must be a gap of approx. 2 cm between them and the walls of the cooking area, otherwise the walls could be damaged by possible arcing.
NO UTENSIL SHOULD HAVE A METAL
overlay, or metal parts such as screws, bands or handles.
UTENSIL SUITABILITY TEST
If you are not sure whether your utensil is suitable for use in your microwave oven, carry out the following test: Place the utensil into the oven. Place a glass container filled with 150 ml of water on or next to the utensil. Switch on the oven at 900 W power for 1 to 2 minutes. If the utensil stays cool or just warm to the touch, it is suitable. Do not use this test on a plastic utensil. It could melt.
TIPS & ADVICE
BEFORE YOU START...
To make it as easy as possible to use the microwave oven we have put together a few hints and tips for you. Only switch on the oven when the food is already inside.
SETTING THE COOKING TIME
Defrosting, re-heating and cooking times are generally much shorter than in a conventional oven or hob. So you will need to consult this book for the recommended cooking times. It is better to set shorter rather than longer cooking times. Always test the food after the cooking time has elapsed. It is better then to continue cooking it for a little longer, than to have overcooked food.
STARTING TEMPERATURE
Defrosting, re-heating and cooking times depend on the temperature of the food when you start. For example, deep frozen and refridgerated food will need longer than food that is at room temperature.
Standard storage temperaturs of food are assumed for re-heating and cooking times (refridgerator temperature of 5°C, Room temperature of approximately 20°C). For defrosting food a starting temperature of -18°C is assumed. Cook popcorn only in special microwave safe containers. Refer exactly to the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not use a normal paper or glass container. Do not cook eggs in the unbroken shells. Pressure builds up inside the shell and this may result in the egg exploding. Do not heat oil or fat for deep-frying inside the microwave oven. It is impossible to control the temperature of the oil and it may suddenly splash out of the pan. Do not heat sealed containers such as jars or tins. The pressure inside the container could cause the container to explode. (The exception is when you are making preserves).
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TIPS & ADVICE
10
COOKING TIMES
All the times given in this book are guidelines, which can be varied according to the initial temperature, weight and condition of the food (water or fat content etc.).
SALT, SPICES AND HERBS
Food cooked in your microwave retains its individual flavour better than it does when conventional preparation methods are used. For this reason you should use salt sparingly and normally add it only after cooking. Salt absorbs liquid and dries out the outer layer of food. Herbs and spices can be used as normal.
TYPES OF USE
Microwave: you can defrost frozen foods in a short time. Combined operation: With the combination of microwave and grill you can cook and roast at the same time. Therefore, the advantages of these appliances will combine sensibly and mutually. The heat of the grill quickly seals the pores of the food and the microwave functions for a short time. The food keeps its moisture inside and is crispy on the outside. Grill: Your oven is provided with a quartz grill, which you can also use without microwave operation like any other conventional grill.
COOKING TEST
The cooking status of meals can be tested as with conventional preparation:
● Food thermometer: Each food has a certain
interior temperature at the end of the heating process. With a food thermometer you can determine whether the food is hot or cooked enough.
● Fork: You can check fish with a fork. If the fish
meat is no longer clear and comes easily from the fishbones, it is. If it is over-cooked, it becomes tough and dry.
● Wooden skewer: Cakes and bread can be
tested by inserting a wooden skewer. If the skewer remains clean and dry after pulling it out they are done.
ADDITION OF WATER
Vegetables and other foods with a high water content can be cooked in their own juice or with the addition of a little water. This ensures that many vitamins and minerals are preserved.
FOOD IN SKINS OR SHELLS
Foods such as sausages, chickens, chicken legs, baked potatoes, tomatoes, apples, egg yolks or such like should be pricked or pierced with a fork or small wooden skewer. This will enable the steam which forms to dissipate without splitting the skin or shell.
FATTY FOODS
Fatty meat and layers of fat cook better than lean portions of meat. Before cooking, cover the fatty portions with a piece of aluminium foil or place the food with the fat side down.
USING A FOOD THERMOMETER TO
DETERMINE COOKING TIME
The internal temperature of food and drink can be ascertained with a food thermometer. The most important temperatures are specified in the temperature table.
Heating drinks (Coffee, Water, Tea, etc.) Heating milk Heating soup Heating stew Poultry Lamb
Pink Well done
Roast beef
Rare Medium Well done
Pork, Veal
Drink / Food Internal Internal temp.
temperature after 10 - 15 mins once cooked standing time
65-75oC
60-65oC 75-80oC 75-80oC 80-85oC
70oC 75-80oC
50-55oC 60-65oC 75-80oC 80-85oC
85-90oC
70-75oC 80-85oC
55-60oC 65-70oC 80-85oC 80-85oC
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TIPS & ADVICE
11
COVERING
Covering the food retains the moisture within it and shortens the cooking time. Use a lid, microwave cling film or a cover. Foods which are to be crispy, e.g. roasts or chickens, should not be covered. As a general rule, whatever would be covered in a conventional oven should also be covered in a microwave oven. Whatever would be uncovered in a conventional oven can also be left uncovered in a microwave oven.
IRREGULAR SHAPED FOOD
Place the thicker, more compacted end of the food pointing towards the outside. Place vegetables (such as broccoli) with the stalks pointing outward.
STIRRING
Stirring the food is necessary, since the microwaves begin by heating the outer areas. The temperature is thereby equalised and the food heats up evenly.
ARRANGEMENT OF FOOD
Place a number of individual portions, such as small pudding moulds, cups or potatoes in their jackets, in a circle on the turntable. Keep the portions at a distance from each other so that the microwave energy can reach the food from all sides.
TURNING
Medium-sized items, such as hamburgers and steaks, should be turned over once during cooking, in order to shorten the cooking process. Large items, such as roasts and chickens, must be turned, since the upper side receives more microwave energy and could dry out if not turned.
STANDING TIME
Keeping to the standing time is one of the most important rules with microwaves. Almost all foods, which are thawed, heated or cooked in the microwave, require a certain amount of time to stand, during which temperature equalisation takes place and the moisture in the food is evenly distributed.
BLANCHING VEGETABLES
Before freezing vegetables, they should be blanched. This preserves the quality and flavour at their best. Method: wash and chop the vegetables. Put 250g of vegetables in a dish with 275 ml water and cover. Heat for 3-5 minutes. After blanching, immerse immediately in cold water to prevent further cooking and then allow to drain. Pack vegetables in an airtight container and freeze.
PRESERVING FRUIT & VEGETABLES
Using the microwave for preserving is quick and easy. There are preserving jars, rubber vacuum seals and suitable seals made of plastic available specially made for microwaves. The manufacturers will supply precise instructions for use.
LARGE & SMALL QUANTITIES
Microwave times are directly dependent upon the amount of food which you would like to thaw, heat or cook. This means that small portions cook more quickly than larger ones. As a rule of thumb: TWICE THE AMOUNT = ALMOST TWICE THE TIME HALF THE AMOUNT = HALF THE TIME
DEEP & SHALLOW CONTAINERS
Both containers have the same capacity, but the cooking time is longer for the deeper one. You should therefore choose as flat a container as possible with a large surface area. Only use deep containers for dishes where there is a danger of overcooking, e.g. for noodles, rice, milk etc..
ROUND & OVAL CONTAINERS
Food cooks more evenly in round or oval containers than in containers with corners, since the microwave energy concentrates in the corners and the food in these areas could become overcooked.
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HEATING
12
● Ready-prepared meals in aluminium containers
should be removed from the aluminium container and heated on a plate or in a dish.
● Food should be covered with microwave cling
film, a plate or cover (obtainable from stores), so that the surface does not dry out. Drinks need not be covered.
● Remove the lids from firmly closed containers.
● When boiling liquids such as water, coffee, tea
or milk, place a glass stirrer in the container.
● If possible, stir large quantities from time to
time, to ensure that the temperature is evenly
distributed.
● The times are for food at a room temperature of
20°C. The heating time for food stored in a refrigerator should be increased slightly.
● After heating allow the food to stand for 1-2
minutes, so that the temperature inside the food can be evenly distributed (standing time).
● The times given are guidelines which can be
varied according to the initial temperature, weight, water content, fat content or the result which you wish to achieve.
Your microwave is ideal for thawing. Thawing times are usually considerably shorter than in traditional methods. Here are a few tips. Take the frozen item out of its packaging and place on a plate for thawing.
BOXES AND CONTAINERS
Boxes and containers suitable for microwaves are particularly good for thawing and heating food, since they can withstand temperatures in a deep freeze (down to approx. -40°C) as well as being heat­resistant (up to approx. 220°C). You can therefore use the same container to freeze, thaw, heat and even cook the food, without having to transfer it.
COVERING
Cover thin parts with small strips of aluminium foil before thawing. Thawed or warm parts should likewise be covered with aluminium strips during thawing. This stops the thin parts becoming too hot while thicker parts are still frozen.
CORRECT SETTING
It is better to choose a setting which is too low rather than one which is too high. By so doing you will ensure that the food thaws evenly. If the microwave setting is too high, the surface of the food will already have begun to cook while the inside is still frozen.
TURNING/STIRRING
Almost all foods have to be turned or stirred from time to time. As early as possible, separate parts which are stuck together and rearrange them.
SMALL AMOUNTS...
thaw more quickly and evenly than larger ones. We recommend that you freeze portions which are as small as possible. By so doing you will be able to prepare whole menus quickly and easily.
FOODS REQUIRING CAREFUL HANDLING,
Foods such as gateaux, cream, cheese and bread should only be partially thawed and then left to thaw completely at room temperature. By so doing you will avoid the outer areas becoming too hot while the inside is still frozen.
STANDING TIME
This is particularly important after thawing food, as the thawing process continues during this period. In the thawing table you will find the standing times for various foods. Thick, dense foods require a longer standing time than thinner foods or food of a porous nature. If the food has not thawed sufficiently, you may continue thawing it in the microwave oven or lengthen the standing time accordingly. At the end of the standing time you should process the food as soon as possible and not re-freeze it.
DEFROSTING
2. EX-72D UK ENGLISH 09/02/2006 13:47 Page 12
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