Electrolux EMS2685k, EMS2685X, EMS2685W, EMS2685B User Manual
MICROWAVE OVEN WITH GRILL
INSTRUCTION BOOK
Model EMS2685
CONTENTS
Important safety instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 - 4
Oven & accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Control panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Before operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Setting the clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
What are microwaves? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Suitable ovenware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 - 9
Tips & advice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 - 14
Microwave power levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Microwave cooking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Grill & dual grill cooking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Other convenient functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 - 19
Auto cook & defrost operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 - 21
Auto cook & defrost charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 - 24
Recipes for auto cook menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 - 26
Cooking charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 - 29
Recipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 - 44
Care & cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
What to do if... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Service & spare parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Customer care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Guarantee conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Important information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 - 51
1
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS: READ CAREFULLY AND KEEP FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
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 and
Cleaning”, Page 45. 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.
2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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 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.
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.
3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
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 17 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.
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.
4
OVEN & ACCESSORIES
1 2
3
4
5
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
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.
15
14
19
67
10
11
12
13
16
17
18
89
5
CONTROL PANEL
1 Digital Display
2 Indicators
The appropriate indicator will flash or light up,
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
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.
9START/+30 button
10 STOP button
11 DOOR OPENING button
6
BEFORE OPERATION
Plug in the oven.
1. The oven display will flash:
2. Press the STOP button, the display will show:
x1
3. To set the clock, see below.
4. Heat the oven without food. (See page 17 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.
SETTING THE CLOCK
There are two setting modes: 12 hour clock and 24 hour clock.
1.
To set the 12 hour clock, hold the COOKING MODE
seconds. will appear in the display.
2. To set the 24 hour clock, press the
after Step 1, in the example below will appear in the display.
To set the clock, follow the example below.
Example:
To set the 24 hour clock to 23:35.
1. Choose the clock function.
(12 hour clock).
COOKING MODE
Choose the 24 hour
clock.
button down for 3
button once more
2. Set the hours. Rotate the TIMER/WEIGHT/
x1 and hold for 3 secs.
POWER knob until the correct hour is
displayed (23).
x1 and hold for 3 seconds
3. Press the COOKING
MODE button to change
from hours to minutes.
x1 x1
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
4. Set the minutes. Rotate the
TIMER/WEIGHT/POWER
knob until the correct minute is
displayed (35).
x1
5. Press the COOKING
MODE button to start
the clock.
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.
7
WHAT ARE MICROWAVES?
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.
SUITABLE OVENWARE
GLASS AND 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.
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.
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.
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.
8
SUITABLE OVENWARE
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
heat-resistant 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.
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
2
least
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 cms between them and the walls
of the cooking area, otherwise the walls could be
damaged by possible arcing.
3
/
to
/
3
filled with food. It is recommended
4
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.
9
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).
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.
10
TIPS & ADVICE
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.
Drink / Food Internal Internal temp.
Heating drinks
(Coffee, Water, Tea,
Milk etc.)
Heating soup
Heating stew
Poultry
Lamb
Pink
Well done
Roast beef
Rare
Medium
Well done
Pork, Veal
temperature after 10 - 15 mins
once cooked standing time
65-75o C
75-80o C
75-80o C
80-85o C
70o C
75-80o C
50-55o C
60-65o C
75-80o C
80-85o C
85-90o C
70-75o C
80-85o C
55-60o C
65-70o C
80-85o C
80-85o C
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.
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 AND 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 AND 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 AND 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 AND 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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TIPS & ADVICE
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.
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HEATING
● 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.
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.
● 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.
DEFROSTING
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.
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COOKING FRESH VEGETABLES
● When buying vegetables try to ensure that, as
far as possible, they are of similar size. This is
particularly important when you want to cook
the vegetables whole (e.g. boiled potatoes).
● Wash the vegetables before preparing them,
clean them and only then weigh the required
quantity for the recipe and chop them up.
● Season them as you would normally, but as a
rule only add salt after cooking.
● Add about 5 tbsps of water for 500 g of
vegetables. Vegetables which are high in fibre
require a little more water. You will find
information about this in the table (see page 27).
COOKING MEAT, FISH & POULTRY
● When buying food items, try to ensure that, as
far as possible, they are of similar size. This will
ensure that they are cooked properly.
● Before preparation wash meat, fish and poultry
thoroughly under cold running water and pat
them dry with kitchen paper. Then continue as
normal.
● Beef should be well hung and have little gristle.
● Even though the pieces may be of a similar size,
cooking results may vary. This is due, amongst
other things, to the kind of food, variations in
the fat and moisture content as well as the
temperature before cooking.
● Vegetables are usually cooked in a dish with a
lid. Those with a high moisture content, e.g.
onions or boiled potatoes, can be cooked in
microwave cling film without adding water.
● After half the cooking time has elapsed
vegetables should be stirred or turned over.
● After cooking allow the vegetables to stand for
approx. 2 minutes, so that the temperature
disperses evenly (standing time).
● The cooking times given are guidelines and
depend upon the weight, initial temperature and
condition of the type of vegetable in question.
The fresher the vegetables, the shorter the
cooking times.
● Turn large pieces of meat, fish or poultry half
way through the cooking time, so that they are
cooked evenly from all sides.
● After cooking cover roasts with aluminium foil
and allow them to stand for approx. 10 minutes
(standing time). During this period the roast
carries on cooking and the liquid is evenly
distributed, so that when it is carved a minimum
amount of juice is lost.
DEFROSTING & COOKING
Deep-frozen dishes can be thawed and cooked at
the same time in one process in your microwave.
You will find some examples in the table. Do take
note, however, of the general advice given on
"heating" and "thawing" food.
Please refer to the manufacturer's instructions on
the packaging when preparing deep- frozen
dishes. These usually contain precise cooking times
and offer advice on preparation.
14
MICROWAVE POWER LEVELS
Your oven has 5 power levels. To choose the power
level for cooking, follow the advice given in the
recipe section. Generally the following
recommendations apply:
900 W used for fast cooking or reheating e.g.
soup, casseroles, canned food, hot beverages,
vegetables, fish, etc.
630 W used for longer cooking of dense foods such
as roast joints, meat loaf and plated meals, also for
sensitive dishes such as cheese sauce and sponge
cakes. At this reduced setting, the sauce will not boil
over and food will cook evenly without over cooking
at the sides.
To set the microwave power level :
Rotate the TIMER/WEIGHT/POWER knob clockwise or counter-clockwise to select cooking time.
Press the COOKING MODE button once (microwave only).
To change the microwave power level rotate the knob until the desired power level is reached.
Press the START/+30 button.
NOTE: If the power level is not selected, 900 W is automatically set.
450 W for dense foods which require a long
cooking time when cooked conventionally, eg. beef
dishes, it is advisable to use this power setting to
ensure the meat will be tender.
270 W (Defrost setting) to defrost, select this
power setting, to ensure that the dish defrosts
evenly. This setting is also ideal for simmering rice,
pasta, dumplings and cooking egg custard.
90 W For gentle defrosting, eg. cream gateaux or
pastry.
W = WATT
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MICROWAVE COOKING
Your oven can be programmed for up to 90 minutes.
(90.00) The input unit of cooking (defrosting) time
varies from 10 seconds to five minutes. It depends on
the total length of the cooking (defrosting) time as
shown on the table.
Example:
Suppose you want to heat soup for 2 minutes and 30 seconds on 630 W microwave power.
1. Enter the desired
cooking time by
rotating TIMER/
WEIGHT/POWER
knob clockwise.
2. Choose the desired
cooking mode by
pressing COOKING
MODE button once
(microwave only).
x1
Cooking time Increasing unit
0-5 minutes 10 seconds
5-10 minutes 30 seconds
10-30 minutes 1 minute
30-90 minutes 5 minutes
3. Choose the desired
power by rotating
the TIMER/
WEIGHT/POWER
knob clockwise.
4. Press START/+30
button once to
begin cooking.
x1
Check the display.
NOTE:
1. When the door is opened during the cooking process, the cooking time on the digital display stops
automatically. The cooking time starts to count down again when the door is closed and the START/+30
button is pressed.
2. If you wish to know the power level during cooking, press the COOKING MODE button.
As long as your finger is touching the COOKING MODE button, the power level will be displayed.
3. You can rotate the TIMER/WEIGHT/POWER knob clockwise or counter-clockwise.
If you rotate the knob counter-clockwise, the cooking time will decrease from 90 minutes by degrees.
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