Panasonic GD556 Operating Instructions

RRR

FOR MODELS: NN-GD556 / NN-GD566 / NN-GD546

ICRO

& BROWNER

C OOKERY B OOK

& OPERATING I NSTRUCTIONS

CHAOS

DEFROST

When using recipes in this book always follow metric or imperial measurements. Do not combine the two. In some recipes the conversions are not a direct equivalent due to recipe result.

Important Notice

Your oven is rated 900 Watts (IEC)*. When using other cookbooks remember to adjust cooking times accordingly. The symbol above, which is displayed on your oven door, indicates the heating category for your oven when cooking or reheating convenience foods. Your oven is rated ‘E’, which is very efficient. It is therefore very important that you refer carefully to the packet instructions on convenience foods. Some packet instructions only display information for B or D rated ovens. We therefore provide additional guidelines for reheating on pages 31-39 of this book. ALWAYS check the progress of the food as it cooks or reheats by simply opening the door and after checking the progress of the foods press START to continue the cooking time.

*1000 Watts IEC (60705) is achieved by using the Turbo Reheat pad, see page 16 for details.

Failure to follow the instructions given in this Cookbook and Operating Instructions, may affect the recipe result and in some instances may be dangerous.

☎

COOKERY ADVICE LINE 01344 862108 Customer Care Centre 08705 357357

Selected Spares and Accessories:

Order direct on line at www.panasonic.co.uk or by telephoning the Customer Care Centre number above.

Standard Conversion Chart

Weight

oz – 15g

1oz – 25g

2oz – 50g

3oz – 75g

4oz – 100g

5oz – 150g

6oz – 175g

7oz – 200g

8oz – 225g

9oz – 250g

10oz – 275g

11oz – 300g

12oz – 350g

13oz – 375g

14oz – 400g

15oz – 425g

1lb/16oz – 450g

Capacity

tsp – 3ml

1tsp – 5ml

1tbsp – 15ml

pt – 150ml

pt – 300ml

pt – 450ml

1pt – 600ml

pt – 1 litre

900W

The IEC (60705) power output (watts)

The heating category for small packs of food

Microwave symbol

(Opens 3 days a week)

Welcome to Panasonic Microwave Cooking

Thank you for purchasing a Panasonic Microwave Oven. Even if this is not your first microwave oven, do please read the opening chapters of this cookbook to achieve perfect results every time.

This microwave oven has the benefit of the Inverter System Inside. The new unique technology has been in use with microwave ovens in Japan for many years, improving the cooking performance of the oven. It also means that you benefit from having more space inside your oven, without taking up more room on your work surface.

Microwaves leave most foods tastier and leave you with less washing up, but don’t expect to become a perfect microwave cook overnight – some of the methods are very different to those used in conventional cooking.

Home Economists program the ovens especially for the UK market. The recipes are also tested many times to ensure you achieve successful results at home.

We hope you enjoy using your new oven but should you require any further help or explanation, phone our

☎

COOKERY ADVICE LINE 01344 862108 (Opens 3 days a week)

Home economists will provide friendly guidance on queries relating to recipes and cooking in your microwave. Alternatively, write to the address below or contact us on-line at:

test.kitchen@panasonic.co.uk

Or visit our website at www.cooking-corner.co.uk

The Microwave Test & Development Kitchen

Panasonic Consumer Electronics U.K

Willoughby Road

Bracknell

Berks

RG12 8FP

When writing, be sure to state your model number and daytime telephone number.

CONTENTS

Safety Information 2 Unpacking your oven 3 Care and Cleaning 4 Oven Maintenance 4 Parts of your oven 5 Important Information 6-7 Microwaving Principles 8 General Guidelines 9-10 Containers to use 11-12 Control Panel 13 Operating Instructions 14-20 Grilling 21 Combination cooking 22-23 Panacrunch Pan 24 Auto Weight Programs NN-GD556/GD566/GD546 25-27 Auto Weight NN-GD546 28-29 Cooking & Reheating Guidelines 30 Reheating Charts 31-34 Cooking Charts 35-39 Increasing/ Decreasing Recipes 40

RECIPES

Soups and Starters 41-42 Fish 43-45 Meat and Poultry 46-49 Pasta and Rice 50-51 Cheese and Egg Dishes 52-53 Vegetables/Vegetarian 54-57 Puddings and Desserts 58-59 Sauces 60 Baking 61-62 Preserves 63

OTHER

Building-in Your Oven 64 Technical Specifications 64 Information On Disposal 65 Index 66-67

This appliance is supplied with a moulded three pin mains plug for your safety and convenience, which may be marked, and rated, either 10 amps or 13 amps.

A 10 amp or 13 amp fuse is fitted according to the type of mains plug fitted.

Should the fuse need to be replaced, please ensure that the replacement fuse has the correct rating for the type of mains plug fitted and that it is approved by ASTA or BSI to BSI362.

Check for the ASTA mark or the BSI mark on the body of the fuse.

IF THE FITTED MOULDED PLUG IS UNSUITABLE FOR THE SOCKET OUTLET IN YOUR HOME THEN THE FUSE SHOULD BE REMOVED AND THE PLUG CUT OFF AND DISPOSED OF SAFELY AND AN APPROPRIATE ONE FITTED. THERE IS A DANGER OF SEVERE ELECTRICAL SHOCK IF THE CUT OFF PLUG IS INSERTED INTO ANY 13 AMP SOCKET.

If a new plug is to be fitted, please observe the wiring code as shown opposite. If in any doubt, please consult a qualified electrician. (For U.K. Models only)

WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED.

IMPORTANT: The wires in this mains lead are coloured in accordance

with the following code: Green-and-yellow: Earth. Blue: Neutral. Brown: Live.

As the colours of the wire in the mains lead of this appliance may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:

The wire which is coloured GREEN-AND-YELLOW must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter E or by the Earth symbol or coloured GREEN or GREEN-AND-YELLOW.

The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.

The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED.

When this oven is installed it should be easy to isolate the appliance from the electricity supply by pulling out the plug or operating a circuit breaker.

Do not immerse cord, plug or oven in water. Keep cord away from heated surfaces. Do not let cord hang over the edge of table or work top. Do not plug your oven in via an extension cable as this can be dangerous. It is important to plug the oven directly into a wall socket.

The back of the appliance heats up during use. Do not allow the cord to be in contact with the back of the appliance or cabinet surface.

1. Hot Surfaces

Exterior oven surfaces, including air vents on the cabinet and the oven door, will get hot during COMBINATION and GRILLING. Use care when opening or closing door and when inserting or removing food and accessories. The oven has a heater situated in the top of the oven. After using the COMBINATION and GRILL functions the roof and walls will be very hot.

2. Children should be kept away from the oven at all

times and should only be allowed to operate the oven under supervision. Ensure that children do not touch the hot outer casing after operation of the oven.

Important Safety Instructions - Read Carefully and keep for future reference

Caution: Hot surfaces

If the fuse cover is detachable, never use the plug with the cover omitted. A replacement fuse cover can be purchased from your local Panasonic Dealer.

HOW TO REPLACE THE FUSE

Open the fuse compartment with a screwdriver and replace the fuse.

Voltage & Power

The voltage used must be the same as specified on this microwave oven. Using a higher voltage than that which is specified is dangerous and may result in a fire or other type of accident causing damage.

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1. Examine Your Oven

Unpack oven, remove all packing material, and examine the oven for any damage such as dents, broken door latches or cracks in the door. Notify dealer immediately if unit is damaged. Do NOT install if unit is damaged.

2. Guarantee

Your receipt is your guarantee, please keep safely.

3. Cord

If the supply cord of this appliance is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or its service agent or a similarly qualified person in order to avoid a hazard.

N.B. The appliance should be inspected for damage to the door seals and door seal areas. If these areas are damaged the appliance should not be operated until it has been repaired by a service technician trained by the manufacturer.

Unpacking your oven

1. Oven must be placed on a flat, stable surface 850mm above floor level. For proper operation, the oven must have sufficient air flow. ie 5cm/2" at one side, the other being open; 15cm/6" clear over the top; 10cm/4" at the rear.

2. Do not place the microwave oven on a shelf directly above a gas or electric hob. This may be a safety hazard and the oven may be damaged.

3. Do not block air vents on the rear and bottom or top of the cabinet. Do not place any articles on the top of the oven over the vents. If air vents are blocked during operation, the oven may overheat. If the oven overheats, a thermal safety device will turn the oven off. The oven will remain inoperable with blank display until it has cooled.

4. Do not use outdoors.

Placement of your oven

open

✗

COUNTER - TOP:-

This oven is intended for counter-top or built-in use only. It is not intended for use inside a cabinet or cupboard. Refer to “Building-in Your Oven” (page 64).

1. Exterior oven surfaces, including air vents on the cabinet and the oven door will get hot during COMBINATION and GRILLING, take care when opening or closing the door and when inserting or removing food and accessories.

2. The oven has two heaters situated in the top of the oven. After using the COMBINATION and GRILL function, these surfaces will be very hot. Care should be taken to avoid touching the heating elements inside the oven. N.B. After cooking by these modes, the oven accessories will be very hot.

3. The accessible parts may become hot in use.

4. 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. Ensure that children do not touch the hot outer casing after operation of the oven.

5. Storage of Accessories

Do not store any objects other than oven accessories inside the oven in case it is accidentally turned on. In case of electronic failure, oven can only be turned off at wall socket.

6. Before Use (NN-GD556/GD566)

Before using COMBINATION or GRILL function for the first time operate the oven without food and accessories (including glass turntable and roller ring) on GRILL1 for 5 mins. This will allow the oil that is used for rust protection to be burned off. This is the only time that the oven is operated empty.

CAUTION: Grill element and oven will be hot. DO NOT OPERATE THE OVEN EMPTY. (Apart from in point 6 above or when pre-heating the Panacrunch Pan, see page 24). The appliance must not be operated by Microwave or Combination WITHOUT FOOD IN THE OVEN. Operation when empty will damage the appliance.

Before using your oven

1. Switch the oven off before cleaning and unplug at socket if

possible.

2. Keep the inside of the oven, door seals and door seal areas clean. When food splatters or spilled liquids adhere to oven walls, door seals and door seal areas wipe off with a damp cloth. Mild detergent may be used if they get very dirty. The use of harsh detergent or abrasives is not recommended. Do not use harsh, abrasive cleaners or sharp metal scrapers to clean the oven door glass since they can scratch the surface, which may result in shattering the glass.

3. After GRILL or COMBINATION cooking the ceiling and walls of the oven should be cleaned with a soft cloth squeezed in soapy water. Particular care should be taken to keep the window area clean particularly after cooking by GRILL or COMBINATION. If your oven has a stainless steel lining (models NN-GD556 or NN-GD566) stubborn spots inside the oven can be removed by using a small amount of branded conventional oven-cleaner sprayed onto a soft damp cloth. Wipe onto problem spots, leave for recommended time and then wipe off. Avoid the microwave feed guide area, and oven door. DO NOT SPRAY DIRECTLY INSIDE THE OVEN. DO NOT USE IF YOU HAVE AN OVEN WITH AN ACRYLIC LINING (model NN-GD546).

4. The outside oven surface should be cleaned with a damp cloth. To prevent damage to the operating parts inside the oven, water should not be allowed to seep into the ventilation openings.

5. Do not use harsh abrasive cleaners or sharp metal scrapers to clean the oven door glass since they may scratch the surface, which may result in shattering of the glass.

6. If the Control Panel becomes dirty, clean with a soft, dry cloth.

Do not use harsh detergents or abrasives on Control Panel. When cleaning the Control Panel, leave the oven door open to prevent the oven from accidentally turning on. After cleaning touch STOP/CANCEL Pad to clear display window.

7. If steam accumulates inside or around the outside of the oven

door, wipe with a soft cloth. This may occur when the microwave oven is operated under high humidity conditions and in no way indicates a malfunction of the unit or microwave leakage.

8. It is occasionally necessary to remove the glass turntable for

cleaning. Wash the turntable in warm soapy water.

9. The roller ring and oven cavity floor should be cleaned

regularly to avoid excessive noise. Simply wipe the bottom surface of the oven with mild detergent and hot water then dry with a clean cloth. The roller ring may be washed in mild soapy water. Cooking vapours collect during repeated use but in no way affect the bottom surface or the roller ring wheels. After removing the roller ring from cavity floor for cleaning, be sure to replace it in the proper position.

10. When GRILLING or cooking by COMBINATION some foods

may splatter grease onto the oven walls. If the oven is not cleaned to eliminate this grease, it can accumulate and cause the oven to ‘SMOKE’ during use. These marks will be more difficult to clean later.

11. A steam cleaner is not to be used for cleaning.

1. Service

WHEN YOUR OVEN REQUIRES A SERVICE call your local Panasonic engineer (08705 357357 Customer Support). 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.

2. Door Seals

Do not attempt to tamper with or make any adjustments or repairs to door, control panel housing, safety interlock switches or any other part of the oven. Do not remove outer panel from oven. The door seals and door seal areas should always be kept clean – use a damp cloth.

3. Oven Light

The oven lamp must be replaced by a service technician trained by the manufacturer. DO NOT attempt to remove the outer casing from the oven.

4. Selected Spares and Accessories

These may be ordered direct; on line at www.panasonic.co.uk or by telephoning the Customer Care Centre 08705 357357. Most major credit and debit cards accepted. Ensure you quote the correct model number.

Maintenance of your oven

Care & Cleaning of your Microwave Oven - IMPORTANT

It is essential for the safe operation of the oven that it is kept clean, and wiped out after each use. Failure to maintain the oven in a clean condition could lead to deterioration of a surface that could adversely affect the life of the appliance and possibly result in a hazardous situation.

1. Do not operate the oven without the Roller Ring and Glass Turntable in place.

2. Only use the Glass Turntable specifically designed for this oven. Do not substitute with any other Glass Turntable.

3. If Glass Turntable is hot, allow to cool before cleaning or placing in water.

4. Do not cook directly on Glass Turntable. Always place food in a microwave safe dish. The only exception to this is when cooking Jacket Potatoes on microwave only.

5. If food or utensil on Glass Turntable touches oven walls, causing the turntable to stop moving, it will automatically rotate in the opposite direction. This is normal. Open oven door, reposition the food and restart.

6. The Glass Turntable can rotate in either direction. The maximum weight that can be placed on the turntable is 4Kg (8lb 14oz), this includes total weight of food and dish.

7. While cooking by MICROWAVE or COMBINATION, turntable may vibrate. This will not affect cooking performance.

8. The metal Grill Rack and Panacrunch Pan provided must ONLY be used as directed for Grilling and Combination cooking. Never use this on microwave only. Do not use if operating the oven with less than 200g (7oz) of food on a manual Combination program or unless pre-heating the Panacruch Pan (see page 24 for details). FAILURE TO USE ACCESSORIES CORRECTLY COULD DAMAGE YOUR OVEN.

9. Arcing may occur if the incorrect weight of food is used, a metal container has been used accidentally, or the Grill Rack or Panacrunch Pan have been damaged. If this occurs, stop the machine immediately. You can continue to cook by GRILL ONLY.

10. Always refer to instructions for correct accessories to use on all programs. The Glass Turntable and Roller Ring are the only accessories used for Microwave Cooking.

Parts of Your Oven

Glass Turntable

The glass turntable and roller ring are the only

accessories used for Microwave Cooking.

See-through Oven Window External Air Vents

Grill Rack

Door Safety Lock System

Control Panel

Identification Plate

Roller Ring

1. The Roller Ring and oven floor should be cleaned frequently to prevent excessive noise.

2. The Roller Ring must always be used together with the Glass Turntable for cooking.

Door Release Pad

Push to open the door Opening the door during cooking will stop the cooking process without cancelling the program. Cooking resumes as soon as the door is closed and Start is pressed. The oven light will turn on and stay on whenever the door is opened.

Door Safety Lock System

Grill Elements

Microwave Feed Guide

Panacrunch Pan & Handle (see page 24)

Menu Label

Safety

If smoke or a fire occurs in the oven, press Stop/Cancel pad and leave the door closed in order to stifle any flames. Disconnect the power cord, or shut off power at the fuse or the circuit breaker panel.

Short Cooking Times

As microwave cooking times are much shorter than other cooking methods it is essential that recommended cooking times are not exceeded without first checking the food.

Cooking times given in the cookbook are approximate. Factors that may affect cooking times are: preferred degree of cooking, starting temperature, altitude, volume, size and shape of foods and utensils used. As you become familiar with the oven, you will be able to adjust these factors.

It is better to undercook rather than overcook foods. If food is undercooked, it can always be returned to the oven for further cooking. If food is overcooked, nothing can be done. Always start with minimum cooking times.

Important.

If the recommended cooking times are exceeded the food will be spoiled and in extreme circumstances could catch fire and possibly damage the interior of the oven.

1. Small quantities of food.

Take care when heating small quantities of food as these can easily burn, dry out or catch fire if cooked too long. Always set short cooking times and check the food frequently.

NEVER OPERATE THE OVEN WITHOUT FOOD INSIDE ON MICROWAVE OR COMBINATION, EXCEPT WHEN PREHEATING THE PANACRUNCH PAN (see page 24)

2. Foods low in moisture.

Take care when heating foods low in moisture, eg bread items, chocolate, popcorn, biscuits and pastries. These can easily burn, dry out or catch on fire if cooked too long.

3. Christmas Pudding.

Christmas puddings and other foods high in fats or sugar, eg. jam, mince pies, must not be over heated. These foods must never be left unattended as with over cooking these foods can ignite.

4. Boiled Eggs.

Eggs in their shell and whole hardboiled eggs should not be heated in microwave ovens since they may explode even after microwave heating has ended.

5. Foods with Skins.

Potatoes, apples, egg yolk, whole vegetables and sausages are examples of food with non porous skins. These must be pierced using a fork before cooking to prevent bursting.

6. Liquids.

Liquids and other foods must not be heated in sealed containers since they are liable to explode. When heating liquids, eg soup, sauces and beverages in your microwave oven, overheating the liquid beyond boiling point can occur without evidence of bubbling.

This could result in a sudden boil over of the hot liquid. To prevent this possibility the following steps should be taken:

a) Avoid using straight-sided

containers with narrow necks.

b) Do not overheat.

c) Stir the liquid before placing the container in the oven and

again halfway through the heating time.

d) After heating, allow to stand in the oven for a short time,

stirring again before carefully removing the container.

e) Microwave heating of beverages can result in delayed

eruptive boiling, therefore care should be taken when handling the container.

7. Lids.

Always remove the lids of jars and containers and takeaway food containers before you microwave them. If you don’t then steam and pressure might build up inside and cause an explosion even after the microwave cooking has stopped.

8. Deep Fat Frying.

Do not attempt to deep fat fry in your oven.

Important Information – Read Carefully

9. Meat Thermometer.

Use a meat thermometer to check the degree of cooking of roasts and poultry only when meat has been removed from the microwave. If undercooked, return to the oven and cook for a few more minutes at the recommended power level. Do not leave a conventional meat thermometer in the oven when microwaving.

10. Paper, Plastic.

When heating food in plastic or paper containers, keep an eye on the oven due to the possibility of ignition. Do not use wire twist-ties with roasting bags as arcing will occur.

Do not use re-cycled paper products, eg Kitchen roll unless they say they are specifically designed for use in a microwave oven. These products contain impurities which may cause sparks and/or fires when used.

11. Reheating.

It is essential that reheated food is served “piping hot”.

Remove the food from the oven and check that it is “piping hot”, ie steam is being emitted from all parts and any sauce is bubbling. (If you wish you may choose to check the food has reached 72˚C with a food thermometer – but remember do not use this thermometer inside the microwave.)

For foods that cannot be stirred, eg lasagne, shepherds pie, the centre should be cut with a knife to test it is well heated through. Even if a manufacturer’s packet instructions have been followed always check the food is piping hot before serving and if in doubt return your food to the oven for further heating.

12. Standing Time.

Standing time refers to the period at the end of cooking or reheating when food is left before being eaten, ie. it is a rest time which allows the heat in the food to continue to conduct to the centre, thus eliminating cold spots.

13. Keeping Your Oven Clean.

It is essential for the safe operation of the oven that it is wiped out regularly. Use warm soapy water, squeeze the cloth out well and use to remove any grease or food from the interior. Pay particular attention to the door seal area and also the areas around the microwave feed guide situated on the right hand side of the cavity wall. The oven should be unplugged when cleaning.

14. Grilling.

The oven will only operate on the GRILL function with the door closed.

15. Fan Motor Operation.

After using the microwave or the COMBINATION or GRILL the fan motor may rotate for a few minutes to cool the electric components. This is normal and you can take out food even though the fan motor operates. You can continue using the oven during this time.

16. Containers.

Before use check that utensils/containers are suitable for use in microwave ovens, or can withstand heat from the grill.

17. Babies Bottles and Food Jars.

When reheating babies bottles always remove top and teat. Liquid at the top of the bottle will be much hotter than that at the bottom and must be shaken thoroughly before checking the temperature. The lid must also be removed from babies food jars, the contents must also be stirred or shaken before the temperature is checked. This should be carried out before consumption in order to avoid burns.

18. Arcing

Arcing may occur if a metal container has been used accidentally, if the incorrect weight of food is used, or if the Grill Rack or Panacrunch Pan have been damaged. Arcing is when blue flashes of light are seen in the microwave oven. If this occurs, stop the machine immediately. If the oven is left unattended and this continues it can damage the machine.

You can continue to cook by GRILL ONLY.

19. Maximum weight on turntable

The maximum weight that can be placed on the turntable is 4 Kg (8 lb 14 oz) (this includes total weight of food and dish).

Important Information – Read Carefully

Microwave energy has been used in this country to cook and reheat food since early experiments with RADAR in World War II. Microwaves are present in the atmosphere all the time, both naturally and from manmade sources.

Manmade sources include radar, radio, television, telecommunication links and car phones.

Microwaving Principles

The microwaves cause the water molecules to vibrate which causes FRICTION, ie. HEAT. This heat then cooks the food. Microwaves are also attracted to fat and sugar particles, and foods high in these will cook more quickly. Microwaves can only penetrate to a depth of 1

⁄

-2 inches (4-5 cm) and as heat spreads through the food by conduction, just as in a traditional oven, the food cooks from the outside inwards.

In a microwave oven, electricity is converted into microwaves by the MAGNETRON

REFLECTION

The microwaves bounce off the metal walls and the metal door screen.

TRANSMISSION

Then they pass through the cooking containers to be absorbed by the water molecules in the food, all foods contain water to a more or lesser extent.

IMPORTANT NOTES

HOW MICROWAVES COOK FOOD

The dish used to cook or reheat the food will get warm during cooking, as the heat conducts from the food. Even in microwaving, oven gloves are required!

MICROWAVES CANNOT PASS THROUGH METAL AND THEREFORE METAL COOKING UTENSILS CAN NEVER BE USED IN A MICROWAVE, FOR COOKING ON MICROWAVE ONLY

Foods Not Suitable for Cooking by Microwave Only

Yorkshire Puddings, Souffles, Double Crust Pastry Pies.

Because these foods rely on dry external heat to cook correctly, do not attempt to cook by microwave.

Foods that require deep fat frying cannot be cooked either.

STANDING TIME

When a microwave oven is switched off, the food will continue to cook by conduction – NOT BY MICROWAVE ENERGY. Hence STANDING TIME is very important in microwaving, particularly for dense foods i.e. meat, cakes and reheated meals. (Refer to page 9.)

Boiled Eggs

Do not boil eggs in your microwave. Raw eggs boiled in their shells can explode and cause serious injury

13 Amp fused socket

Microwave Water Molecule Absorption Vibration

General Guidelines

PIERCING

The skin or membrane on some foods will cause steam to build up during cooking. These foods must be pierced or a strip of skin should be peeled off before cooking to allow the steam to escape. Eggs, potatoes, apples, sausages etc, will all need to be pierced before cooking. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO BOIL EGGS IN THEIR SHELLS.

MOISTURE CONTENT

Many fresh foods e.g. vegetables and fruit, vary in their moisture content throughout the season. Jacket potatoes are a particular example of this. For this reason cooking times may have to be adjusted throughout the year. Dry ingredients e.g. rice, pasta, can dry out further during storage and cooking times may differ from ingredients freshly purchased.

CLING FILM

Cling film helps keep the food moist and the trapped steam assists in speeding up cooking times. However it should be pierced before cooking, to allow excess steam to escape. Always take care when removing cling film from a dish as the build-up of steam will be very hot. Always purchase cling film that states on the packet “suitable for microwave cooking” and use as a covering only. Do not line dishes with cling film. Do not cover foods when cooking by Combination, or Grill.

STANDING TIME

Dense foods e.g. meat, jacket potatoes and cakes, require a STANDING TIME (inside or outside of the oven) after cooking, to allow heat to finish conducting to cook the centre completely.

■ MEAT JOINTS – Stand 15 mins. wrapped in aluminium foil.

■ JACKET POTATOES – Stand 5 mins. wrapped in aluminium

foil.

■ LIGHT CAKES – Stand 5 mins. before removing from dish.

■ RICH DENSE CAKES – Stand 15-20 mins.

■ FISH – Stand 2-5 mins.

■ EGG DISHES – Stand 2-3 mins.

■ PRECOOKED CONVENIENCE FOODS – Stand for 5 mins.

■ PLATED MEALS – Stand for 2-5 mins.

■ VEGETABLES – Boiled potatoes benefit from standing

1-2 mins., however most other types of vegetables can be served immediately.

■ DEFROSTING – It is essential to allow standing time to

complete the process. This can vary from 5 mins. e.g. raspberries, to up to 1 hour for a joint of meat.

If food is not cooked after STANDING TIME, return to oven and cook for additional time.

DISH SIZE

Follow the dish sizes given in the recipes, as these affect the cooking and reheating times. A quantity of food spread in a bigger dish cooks and reheats more quickly.

QUANTITY

Small quantities cook faster than large quantities, also small meals will reheat more quickly than large portions.

SPACING

Foods cook more quickly and evenly if spaced apart. NEVER pile foods on top of each other.

SHAPE

Even shapes cook evenly. Food cooks better by microwave when in a round container rather than square.

DENSITY

Porous airy foods heat more quickly than dense heavy foods.

COVERING

Cover foods with microwave cling film or a self-fitting lid. Cover fish, vegetables, casseroles, soups. Do not cover cakes, sauces, jacket potatoes, pastry items.

ARRANGING

Individual foods e.g. chicken portions or chops, should be placed on a dish so that the thicker parts are to the outside.

STARTING TEMPERATURE

The colder the food, the longer it takes to heat up. Food from a fridge takes longer to reheat than food at room temperature.

TURNING AND STIRRING

Some foods require stirring during cooking. Meat and poultry should be turned after half the cooking time.

LIQUIDS

All liquids must be stirred before and during heating. Water especially must be stirred before and during heating, to avoid eruption. Do not heat liquids that have previously been boiled. DO NOT OVERHEAT.

CHECKING FOOD

It is essential that food is checked during and after a recommended cooking time, even if an AUTO PROGRAM has been used (just as you would check food cooked in a conventional oven). Return the food to the oven for further cooking if necessary.

CLEANING

As microwaves work on food particles, keep your oven clean at all times. Stubborn spots of food can be removed by using a branded microwave spray cleaner, sprayed onto a soft cloth, always wipe the oven dry after cleaning. Please refer to page 4 for more details.

Containers to use

When unsure that a cooking container is suitable for use in your microwave, check by the following test:

1. Fill a microwave safe measuring jug with 300ml (

⁄

pt) cold water.

2. Place it on the turntable alongside the dish to be tested. If the dish you are testing is a large dish, then stand the measuring jug on top of the empty dish.

3. Heat on HIGH power for 1 minute.

Result

If the dish is suitable for microwaving, it will remain cool, whilst the water in the jug will begin to feel warm. If the testing dish feels warm, do not use as it is obviously absorbing microwave energy. N.B. This test does not apply to plastic or metal based containers e.g. Le Creuset

style dishes, which should not be used as they are cast iron covered with enamel.

OVEN GLASS

Everyday glass that is heat resistant e.g. Pyrex

, is ideal. DO NOT USE FOR GRILLING. Do not use delicate glass which may crack due to the heat from the food. Do not use lead crystal which may crack or arc.

CHINA

AND CERAMIC

Everyday glazed china plates, saucers, bowls, mugs and cups can be used if they are heat resistant. Porcelain and ceramic are also ideal. Fine bone china should only be used for reheating for short periods, otherwise the change in temperature may crack the dish or craze the finish. Do not

use dishes with a metal rim or pattern. Do not use jugs or mugs with glued handles, since the glue can melt in a microwave.

POTTER

Y, EARTHENWARE,

ONEWARE

If completely glazed, these dishes are suitable. Do not use if partially glazed or unglazed, since they are able to absorb water which in turn absorbs microwave energy, making the container very hot and slows down the cooking of food.

FOIL/MET

AL CONTAINERS

NEVER ATTEMPT TO COOK FROM RAW IN FOIL OR METAL containers on microwave only as the microwaves cannot pass through and the food will not heat evenly, it may also damage your oven. Pre-cooked food in shallow foil containers can be REHEATED in the microwave, but take care that containers do not touch the oven walls or door. Use wooden kebab sticks instead of metal skewers. DO NOT RE-USE FOIL CONTAINERS AS THEY MAY BECOME DENTED OR DAMAGED AND ARCING MAY OCCUR.

QUICK CHECK GUIDE TO COOKING UTENSILS

Choosing the correct container is a very important factor in deciding the success or failure of your cooking.

Testing Dishes for Suitability - For microwave cooking only

PLASTIC

Many plastic containers are designed for microwave use, but do not use for cooking foods high in sugar or fat or for foods that require long cooking times e.g. brown rice.

Only use Tupperware

containers if they are designed for microwave use. Do not use Melamine as it absorbs microwave energy and scorches. Never cook in margarine cartons or yoghurt pots, as these will melt with the heat from the food. Many plastics that are not heatproof for cooking are suitable for defrosting. DO NOT USE UNDER THE GRILL.

APER

Plain white absorbent kitchen paper (kitchen towel) can only be used for microwave cooking e.g. covering blind pastry cases and for covering bacon to prevent splattering. ONLY USE FOR SHORT COOKING TIMES. NEVER RE-USE A PIECE OF KITCHEN TOWEL. ALWAYS USE A FRESH PIECE OF PAPER FOR EACH DISH.

Avoid kitchen paper containing manmade fibres. If you are using branded re-cycled kitchen towel, check first that it is recommended for microwave use. Do not use waxed or plastic coated cups or plates as the finish may melt. Greaseproof paper can be used to line the base of dishes and to cover fatty foods e.g. bacon rashers to stop splattering. White paper plates can be used for SHORT REHEATING TIMES, ON MICROWAVE ONLY.

CLING FILM

Microwave cling film can be used for covering food that is reheated by microwave. It is also useful for covering food to be cooked, but care should be taken to avoid the film being in direct contact with the food. DO NOT USE ON ANY OTHER COOKING MODE.

ROASTING BAGS

Roasting bags are useful when slit up one side to tent a joint for roasting by power and time, on microwave only. DO NOT USE THE METAL TWISTS SUPPLIED.

ALUMINIUM FOIL

Small amounts of smooth aluminium foil can be used to SHIELD joints of meat during defrosting and cooking by microwave, as the microwaves cannot pass through the foil, this prevents the parts shielded from overcooking or overdefrosting. Take care that the foil does not touch the sides or roof of the oven, as this may cause arcing and damage your oven.

WICKER, WOOD, STRA

W BASKETS

Dishes will crack and could ignite. Do not use wooden dishes in your microwave. DO NOT USE ON ANY COOKING MODE.

✘

✔

✘

(1) Display Window

(2) Microwave Power Setting

(3) Turbo Reheat Pad

(4) Grill Setting

(5) Combination Pad

(6) Auto Weight Defrost Programs

(7) Delay/Stand Pad:

This can be used to delay a cooking program for up to 9 hrs 90 mins., or used to time or for standing (non-cooking) time.

(8) Clock Pad:

Press the clock pad. Use the Time/Weight Dial to set the clock (12 hr clock). Press clock pad again to stop colons flashing.

(9) lb/oz Conversion Pad

(10) Auto Cook Menu Dial

(11) Time/Weight Dial

(12) Stop/Cancel Pad:

Before Cooking:

one press clears your instructions.

During Cooking:

one press temporarily stops the cooking program. Another press cancels all your instructions and the time of day will appear in the display.

(13) Start Pad:

Press to start operating the oven. If during cooking the door is opened or Stop/Cancel Pad is pressed once, Start Pad has to be pressed again to continue cooking.

Control Panel

NN-GD556/NN-GD566

NN-GD546*

* The design of your control panel may vary from

the panel displayed (depending on colour), but the words on the pads will be the same.

(1)

(2)

(12)

(9)

(13)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(7)

(8)

(10)

(11)

Beep Sound:

A beep sounds when a pad is pressed. If this beep does not sound, the setting is incorrect. When the oven changes from one function to another, two beeps sound. After completion of cooking, five beeps sound.

(6)

NN-GD566/ NN-GD556/

NN-GD546*

Let’s Start to Use your Oven

1 Plug in

Plug into a 13 amp fused electrical socket. You will be reminded to read your operating instructions.

2 Press Clock Pad

Set clock as a 12hr clock. Set time using Time/Weight Dial. Press clock pad again. (See page 15 for details).

Press Grill Pad Once (NN-GD556/NN-GD566)

(This procedure is to burn off the oil used for rust protection in the oven.) - see page 3 on “Before Use” for details.

4 Enter Time Using Time/Weight Dial

Turn Time/Weight Dial until 5 minutes is displayed in the window.

Press Start Pad

The time will be displayed in the window and count down. The oven will beep at the end of the program. The oven is now ready to use.

CAUTION: Grill and oven will be hot.

Demonstration Mode

This is to enable you to experiment setting various programs. (The letter D will always appear in the display window. This is to confirm that there is no microwave power produced and it is safe to use the oven without any food). To select this mode press the clock pad three times. “Demo mode press any key” will appear. To cancel press the clock pad a further three times.

7 Child Lock

To operate the child lock facility press the start pad three times, this will deactivate the microwave. “Lock” will appear in the display and none of the controls will operate. To clear child lock facility press Stop/Cancel three times.

* The design of your control panel

may vary from the panel displayed (depending on colour), but the words on the pads will be the same.

●

Press Clock Pad

“SET TIME” will appear in the display window, and the colon starts to blink.

●

Turn Time/Weight Dial

Enter time of day by using the Time/Weight Dial. Time counts up in minutes. Turning the dial slowly will count up in 1 minute steps. Turning the dial quickly will count up in 10 minute steps. Set as a 12 hour clock.

●

Press Clock Pad

Colon stops blinking. Time of day is now locked into the display.

● Press this pad until the power you require

appears in the display window.

Setting the Clock

Microwave Cooking and Defrosting

There are 6 different microwave power levels available.

Selecting Microwave Power Level

N.B.

1. To reset time of day, repeat step 1 through to step 3.

2. The clock will keep the time of day as long as the oven is plugged in and electricity is supplied.

3. This is a 12 hour clock.

Power

Press Level Wattage

once High 900 W twice Defrost 270 W 3 times Medium 600 W 4 times Low 440 W 5 times Simmer 250 W 6 times Warm 100 W

CAUTION: The oven will automatically work on HIGH microwave power if a cooking time is entered without the power level previously being selected.

● Press start

● Enter the cooking time by using the

Time/Weight Dial. 0 - 8 minutes time counts up in seconds. Upwards from 8 minutes time counts up in minutes.

(HIGH Power: up to 30 minutes). (Other Powers: up to 99 minutes).

1. If the oven door is opened during the stand or delay time, the time in the display window will continue to count down.

2. Delay Start cannot be used before an Auto Program.

3. If the Delay Stand pad is pressed three times, this will turn off the auto guide system. “Operation guide off” will appear once. The words will not now scroll in the display window. To turn the auto guide back on, press the Delay/Stand pad three times. “Operation guide on” will appear, and then the words will scroll again.

Turbo Reheat

This will provide an added boost of microwave power up to 1000 Watts, for the initial part of the cooking time, when reheating foods e.g. soup, baked beans.

●

Press the pad.

●

Select Cooking time using

Time/Weight Dial (Max 30 minutes).

●

Press Start.

Using the the Delay/Stand Feature

The Delay/Stand Pad is used as a timing pad either before, during or after a cooking program. When the Delay/Stand Pad is selected with a time, there is no microwave power in the oven during this time.

1. To Set a Standing Time:

●

Press the Delay Pad

●

Set Delay time using the Time/Weight Dial (max 9hrs 90mins). An “H” will appear in the display to denote hours.

●

Set the complete cooking program, by entering power level and time required.

●

Press Start Pad. Delayed time will count down then the cooking program will start.

●

Set the desired Cooking Program, by selecting power level and time required.

●

Then Press the Stand Pad.

●

Set desired standing time using the Time/Weight Dial (max 9hrs 90mins). An “H” will appear in the display to denote hours.

●

Press Start Pad. Cooking program will commence after which the standing time will count down.

2. To Set a Delay Start:

Power level

Time

Power level

Time

Microwave Cooking and Defrosting

ACCESSORY TO USE:

When using your oven on MICROWAVE only, the glass turntable provided must always be in position. DO NOT attempt to use microwave only with any metal accessory in the oven.

DO NOT place food directly onto the turntable except in the case of Jacket Potatoes cooked by MICROWAVE only.

Foods reheated or cooked by MICROWAVE only are normally covered with a lid or cling film, unless otherwise stated.

Two Stage Cooking:

eg. High power 10 minutes followed by Simmer power 20 minutes; Select High power and program 10 minutes then select

second power (Simmer) with second cooking time (20 minutes) then press Start.

Three Stage Cooking:

eg. High power 5 minutes, Delay 5 minutes, High power 2 minutes; Select first Power level and cooking time, then press

DELAY and time, then select final power level and final cooking time. Then press Start.

•Select the desired program by pressing pad once, twice or three times.

•Press to select g or lb and oz. •Enter the weight by turning the Time/Weight Dial. The display will start with the minimum weight for each food.

• Press Start.

Auto Weight Defrost

With this feature you can defrost frozen foods according to the weight. Select the category and set the weight of the food. The weight can be programmed in pounds and ounces or grams. The weight starts from the minimum weight for each category.

Program Weight Range Suitable Foods

1 Bread 100 - 800g (4oz - 1lb 12oz) Bread and rolls. Turn at beeps.

2 Meat Items 150 - 1200g (5oz - 2lb 10oz) Small pieces of meat, minced meat, chicken portions, steaks, chops. Turn at beeps.

3 Meat Joints 400 - 2000g (14oz - 4lb 6oz) Whole chicken, meat joints. Turn at beeps and shield.

1. Bread

2. Meat Items

3. Meat Joints

This feature allows you to defrost minced meat, chops, chicken portions, meat joints and bread.

The CHAOS defrost pad should be pressed to select the correct category and then enter in the weight of the food in grams or pounds and ounces using the appropriate pads (See page 17).

Foods should be placed in a suitable dish, whole chickens and joints of meat should be on an upturned saucer or on a rack. Chops, chicken portions and slices of bread should be placed in a single layer. It is not necessary to cover the foods.

The CHAOS Theory principle is used in Auto Weight defrost programs to give you a quick and more even defrost.

The CHAOS system uses a random sequence of pulsing microwave energy which speeds up the defrosting process.

During the program the oven will beep to remind you to check the food.

IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU TURN AND STIR THE FOOD FREQUENTLY AND SHIELD IF NECESSARY (See page 19).

On hearing the first beep you should TURN and SHIELD (if possible). On the second beep you should turn the food or break it up.

Auto Weight Defrost Programs

CATEGORY 1 BREAD The Bread Program is suitable for defrosting small items e.g. rolls, buns and slices of bread which are

required for immediate use. Small items may feel warm immediately after defrosting. Loaves can also be defrosted on this program but these will require standing time to allow the centre to thaw out. Standing time can be shortened if slices are separated and buns and loaves cut in half. Items should be turned halfway during defrosting. THIS PROGRAM IS NOT SUITABLE FOR CREAM CAKES OR DESSERTS eg. cheesecake.

CATEGORY 2 MEAT ITEMS (MINCE/CHOPS/CHICKEN PORTIONS)

It is necessary for mince to be broken up frequently during defrosting and this is best carried out in a large shallow dish. Chops and chicken portions should be arranged in a single layer and turned frequently.

CATEGORY 3 MEAT JOINTS/WHOLE CHICKENS Meat joints and chickens will require shielding during defrosting especially if they are particularly fatty

pieces. This is to prevent over defrosting on the outside edges. Smooth foil secured with cocktail sticks should be used. DO NOT ALLOW THE FOIL TO TOUCH THE WALLS OF THE OVEN. Back fat of joints, legs, wings and breast bones need shielding (see photograph above). Standing time of at least 1 hour should be allowed (rolled joints may require longer) before cooking to ensure the centre is fully defrosted.

1st Beep

Turn or Shield

2nd Beep

Turn or break up

1. Bread

2. Meat Items

3. Meat Joints

1 Check foods during

defrosting. Foods vary in their defrosting speed.

2 It is not necessary to

cover the food.

3 Always turn or stir the

food especially when the oven “beeps’’. Shield if necessary (see point 5).

4 Minced meat/chops/chicken

portions should be broken up or separated as soon as possible and placed in a single layer.

5 Shielding prevents food

cooking. It is essential when defrosting chickens and joints of meat. The outside thaws out first, so protect wings/breast/fat with smooth pieces of aluminium foil secured with cocktail sticks.

6 Allow standing time so

that the centre of the food thaws out. (minimum 1 hour for joints of meat and whole chickens).

By selecting the DEFROST power level, from the microwave power pad, and setting a time, you can defrost food in your microwave. The biggest problem is getting the inside defrosted before the outside starts to cook.

For this reason a defrost program alternates between a defrost power and a standing time. The name for this type of defrost is cyclic and during the

standing stages there is not any microwave power in the oven, although the light will remain on and the turntable will turn. The automatic stand times ensure a more even defrost but it is still necessary to allow for standing time before use. Place foods in a suitable container. Meat joints and chickens should be placed on an upturned saucer or on a plastic rack if you have one.

Defrosting Guidelines

Turn dense foods and meat 2/3 times during defrosting.

TIPS

Separate chops and small items e.g. bread slices where possible.

Chickens and joints of meat will require shielding during defrosting.

Break up small items e.g. minced meat, frequently during defrosting.

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