PANASONIC NNCT569M, NNCT579S, NNCT559W, NNA574S, NNA524M User Manual

...

Operating Instructions & Cookery Book

Microwave Oven

Model No:

NN-CT559W

NN-CT569M

NN-CT579S

NN-A574S

NN-A554W

NN-A524M

For domestic use only

Important safety instructions

Please read carefully and keep for future reference

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 1

pt – 1 litre

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 1000 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 ʻEʼ, 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 47-55 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.

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

1000W

The IEC (60705) power output (watts)

The heating category for small packs of food

Microwave symbol



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.

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. This 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 donʼt expect to become a perfect microwave cook overnight – some of the methods are very different to those used in conven tion al cooking.

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



Cookery advice line 01344 862108

or write to the address below.

The Home Appliance Innovation Centre Panasonic Consumer Electronics U.K. Willoughby Road Bracknell Berks RG12 8FP

or e-mail test.kitchen@panasonic.co.uk

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

Contents

Safety information 2 Unpacking your oven 3 Placement of oven 3 Caution 4 Before using your oven 4 Care and cleaning 5 Maintenance 6 Parts of your oven 7-8 Important Information 9-11 Microwaving principles 12 General guidelines 13-17 Containers to use 18-20 Control panels 21 Operating instructions 22-46

• Microwaving/defrosting 23-29

• Delay / Stand 30

• Grilling 31-32

• Convection cooking 33-34

• Combination cooking 34-41 Auto weight programs - 42-46

Cooking and reheating guidelines 47-48 Reheating charts 49-55 Cooking charts 56-67 Adapting recipes 68

Recipes

Soups and starters 69-71 Fish 72-75 Meat and poultry 76-84 Pasta, rice & beans 85-87 Cheese and egg dishes 88-90 Vegetables/vegetarian 91-96 Sauces 97-98 Pastry 99-100 Baking 101-102 Desserts 102-104 Baking guidelines 105-106 Preserves 107-108 Questions and answers 109 Technical specification 110

This appliance is supplied with a moulded

three pin mains plug for your safety and

convenience. A 13 amp fuse is fitted in this

plug. Should the fuse need to be replaced,

please ensure that the replacement fuse has

a rating of 13 amps and that it is approved

by ASTA or BSI to BS1362. 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-ANDYELLOW 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.

Important safety instructions

Please read carefully and keep for future reference.

If the fuse cover is detachable, never use the plug with the cover omitted. If a replacement fuse cover is required, ensure it is the same colour as that visible on the pin face of the plug. 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.

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.

Guarantee

Your receipt is your guarantee, please keep it in a safe place.

Cord

If the supply cord of this appliance is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or itʼs 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. This oven is suitable for countertop use only. It is not suitable for built-in use or use within a

cupboard.

2. Oven must be placed on a flat, stable surface 850mm above floor level. For proper

operation, the oven must have sufficient air flow, i.e. 5cm/2" at one side, the other being open; 15cm/6" clear over the top; 10cm/4" at the rear.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. Do not use outdoors.

Placement of your oven

1. In the case of electronic failure, the oven can only be turned off at wall socket.

2. 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.

Storage of accessories

Do not store any objects other than oven accessories inside the oven in case it is accidentally turned on.

Before use

Before using CONVECTION, COMBINATION or GRILL function for the first time operate the oven without food and accessories (including glass turntable and roller ring) on GRILL 1 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.

5. This appliance is not intended to be operated by means of an external timer or separate

remote-controlled system.

6. This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical,

sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.

CAUTION: All inside surfaces of the oven will be hot.

DO NOT OPERATE THE OVEN EMPTY.

(Apart from in point 4 above). 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. Hot surfaces

Exterior oven surfaces, including air vents on the cabinet and the oven door, will get hot during CONVECTION, 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 CONVECTION, 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.

3. When the appliance is used in the

combination mode, children should only use the oven under adult supervision due to the temperatures generated.

Caution: Hot surfaces

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. Take care when cleaning around the microwave feed guide.

3. After using CONVECTION, GRILL or COMBINATION cooking

the 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 CONVECTION, GRILL or COMBINATION. 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 the door. DO NOT SPRAY DIRECTLY INSIDE THE OVEN.

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. If the control panel

becomes dirty, clean with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh detergents or abrasives on the 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.

6. 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.

7. It is occasionally necessary to remove the glass turntable

for cleaning. Wash the turntable

in warm soapy water. Do not place in the dishwasher.

8. The roller ring and oven cavity floor

should be cleaned regularly to avoid excessive noise. Simply wipe the bottom surface of the oven, particularly the turntable spindle and the area surrounding this, with mild detergent and hot water then dry with a clean cloth. The roller ring may be washed in mild soapy water. Vapours may cause corrosion. After removing the roller ring from cavity floor for cleaning, be sure to replace it in the proper position.

9. When GRILLING or cooking by COMBINATION or CONVECTION

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 ʻSMOKEʼ during use. These marks will be more difficult to clean later.

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

11. Keep air vents clean at all times. Check that no dust or other material is blocking any of the

air vents on the top, bottom or rear of the appliance. If air vents become blocked this could cause overheating which would affect the operation of the oven and possibly result in a hazardous situation.

12. 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 of the glass.

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. Service

WHEN YOUR OVEN REQUIRES A SERVICE call your local Panasonic engineer (Customer Care Centre on 0844 8443868 who can recommend an engineer). 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.

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.

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.

Selected spares and accessories

These may be ordered direct; on line at www.panasonic.co.uk or by telephoning the Customer Care Centre 0844 8443868. Most major credit and debit cards accepted. Ensure you quote the correct model number.

Maintenance of your oven

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 accessories provided must ONLY be used as directed for GRILLING,

CONVECTION and COMBINATION cooking. Never use them on MICROWAVE only. Do not use if operating the oven with less than 200g (7oz) of food on a manual COMBINATION program. 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

incorrectly, or the accessories have been damaged. If this occurs, stop the machine immediately. You can continue to cook by GRILL OR CONVECTION 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. For CONVECTION and COMBINATION cooking the metal tray must ALWAYS be in place on the glass turntable.

Parts of your oven

Glass turntable

The glass turntable and roller ring are the only

accessories used for microwave cooking.

Door safety lock system

Wire rack

Metal tray

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

Heating elements

Microwave feed guide (Do not remove)

See-through oven window

External air vents

Parts of your oven

Power cord

Power cord 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.

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.

Foods low in moisture.

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

We do not recommend heating foods low in moisture such as popcorn or poppadoms. This oven has been developed for food use only. We do not recommend that it is used for heating non food items such as wheat bags or hot water bottles.

Christmas pudding.

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

Boiled eggs.

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

Important information – read carefully

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.

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.

Lids.

Always remove the lids of jars and containers and takeaway food containers before you microwave them. If you donʼt then steam and pressure might build up inside and cause an explosion even after the microwave cooking has stopped.

Deep fat frying.

Do not attempt to deep fat fry in your oven.

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, e.g. 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”, i.e. 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, e.g. lasagne, shepherds pie, the centre should be cut with a knife to test it is well heated through. Even if a manufacturerʼs 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.

Important Information – read carefully

12. Standing time.

Standing time refers to the period at the end of cooking or reheating when food is left before being eaten, i.e. it is a rest time which allows the heat in the food to continue to conduct to the centre, thus eliminating cold spots. See page 13.

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 oven, the fan motor may operate 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. See page

18.

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 incorrectly, if the incorrect weight of food is used, or if the accessories 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 OR CONVECTION ONLY.

19.

Maximum weight on turntable

The maximum weight that can be placed on the turntable is 4kg (8lb 14oz) (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 mobile phones.

Microwaving principles

Reflection

The microwaves bounce off the metal walls and the metal door screen. In a microwave oven, electricity is converted into microwaves by the MAGNETRON.

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.

The microwaves cause the water molecules to vibrate which causes FRICTION, i.e. 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.

IMPORTANT NOTES

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

MICROWAVES CANNOT PASS THROUGH METAL AND THERE FORE METAL COOKING UTEN SILS 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. This is because these foods rely on dry external heat to cook correctly, do not attempt to cook by micro wave. Foods that require deep fat frying cannot be cooked either.

Boiled eggs

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

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 13).

How Microwaves cook food

General guidelines

Standing time

Dense foods e.g. meat, jacket potatoes and cakes, require a STANDING TIME (inside or outside of the oven) after cook ing, to allow heat to finish con ducting 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 2-3 mins.

• EGG DISHES – Stand 1-2 mins.

• PRECOOKED CONVENIENCE FOODS – Stand for 1-2 mins.

• PLATED MEALS – Stand for 1-2 mins.

• VEGETABLES – Boiled potatoes benefit from standing for 1-2 mins., however most other

types of vegetables can be served immediately.

• DEFROSTING – It is essential to allow standing time to com plete 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.

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 es cape. 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. veget ables 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, CONVECTION or GRILL.

Dish size

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

General guidelines

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 a square container.

Density

Porous airy foods heat more quickly than dense heavy foods.

General guidelines

Covering

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

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

Food temperature should be between 5-8oc before cooking. 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. Remove metal spoon when microwaving.

General guidelines

Liquids

All liquids must be stirred before and after 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. Remove metal spoon when microwaving.

Checking Foods

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 sopts of food can be removed by using a branded oven cleaner, sprayed onto a soft cloth, always wipe the oven dry after cleaning. Avoid any plastic parts and door area. The back of the oven has a catalytic lining which is self cleaning.

Containers to use

1. Fill a microwave safe measur ing jug with

300ml (

⁄

pt) cold water.

2. Place it on the turntable along side the

dish to be tested. If the dish you are testing is a large dish, then stand the measur ing jug on top of the empty dish.

3. Heat on HIGH power for 1 minute.

Result

If the dish is suitable for micro waving, 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 obvious ly absorbing microwave energy.

N.B. This test does not apply to plastic or metal based con tainers e.g. Le Creuset

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

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.

Oven glass

Everyday glass that is heat resistant e.g. Pyrex®, is ideal for Microwave, Convection or Combination cooking. DO NOT USE FOR GRILLING. Do not use delicate glass or lead crystal which may crack or arc.

China and ceramic

Everyday glazed china, porcelain or ceramic plates, bowls, mugs and cups can be used if they are heat resis tant. Fine bone china should only be used for reheating for short periods. Do not use dishes with a metal rim or pattern. Do not use jugs or mugs with glued handles, since the glue can melt. If dishes are heat resistant they may be used on Convection and Combination but not directly under the Grill.

Quick check guide to cooking utensils

When unsure that a cooking con tainer is suitable for use in your microwave, check by the follow ing test:

Pottery, earthenware, stoneware

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/metal containers

NEVER ATTEMPT TO COOK IN FOIL OR METAL con tai ners on Microwave only as the microwaves cannot pass through and the food will not heat evenly, it may also damage your oven. Foil and metal containers can be used on GRILL and CONVECTION. Use wooden kebab sticks instead of metal skewers.

Cling film

Microwave cling film can only 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. Do not use the metal twists supplied, when using Microwave or Combination.

Containers to use

Aluminium foil

Small amounts of smooth aluminium foil can be used to SHIELD joints of meat during defrosting and cook ing by Microwave, as the microwaves cannot pass through the foil, this prevents the parts shielded from overcook ing or over de frost ing. Take care that the foil does not touch the sides or roof of the oven, as this may cause arcing and damage your oven. Aluminium foil can be used for Convection cooking.

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. Never cook in margarine cartons or yoghurt pots, as these will melt with the heat from the food. If heatproof they can be used for Convection or Combination cooking. DO NOT USE UNDER THE GRILL.

Paper

Plain white absorbent kitchen paper (kitchen towel) can only be used for microwave cooking e.g. covering blind pastry cases and for cover ing 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 RE HEATING TIMES, on Microwave only.

Wicker, wood, straw baskets

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

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

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Containers to use

Control panels

NN-CT559W / NN-CT569M / NN-CT579S / NN-A574S / NN-A554W / NN-A524M *

1. Display window

2. Time pads

3. Auto Weight Microwave programs

4. Auto Weight Combination programs

5. Auto Weight Defrost programs

(Chaos Defrost)

6. Microwave Power pad

7. Grill Pad

8. Convection pad

9. Combination pad

10. Delay/Stand pad:

This can be used to delay a cooking program for up to 9 hrs. 59 mins, or used to time or for standing (noncooking) time.

11. Clock pad:

Refer to page 23 for setting the clock.

12. lb/oz Conversion pad

13. Weight Selection pads

14. 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.

15. 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.

(1)

(2)

(14)

(13)

(12)

(15)

(7)

(10)

(6)

(5)

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.

* 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.

(11)

(8)

(9) (4)

(3)(3)

NOTE: If an operation is set and Start Pad is not pressed, after 6 minutes, the oven will automatically cancel the operation. The display will revert back to clock mode.

This oven is equipped with an energy saving function.

Please Note:

1. When in stand-by mode the brightness of the

display will be reduced.

2. The oven will enter stand-by mode, when first

plugged in and immediately after the last operation has completed.

110

hmin

1 2

110

min sec

Micr o Po wer

Grill 1-2-3

Convection

Combination

Delay/

Stand

Clock

Stop/Cancel

3 4

5 6

down

Start

NN-A554W

Letʼs 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 24hr clock. Set time using time pads. Press clock pad again. (See page 23 for details).

Press grill pad

( will appear in the display window with the grill setting)

(This procedure is to burn off the oil used for rust protection in the oven.) Press once for Grill 1 (High). Remove all accessories from the oven.

4 Press time pad

Press 1 min pad until 5 minutes is displayed in the window.

5 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: Heating elements and oven will be hot.

6 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 Microwave Pad once and then Stop/Cancel 4 times. “Demo mode press any key” will appear. To cancel press the Microwave Pad once and then Stop/Cancel 4 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.

NN-CT559W / NN-CT569M / NN-CT579S / NN-A574S / NN-A554W / NN-A524M *

110 hmin

110

min sec

Micr o Po wer

Grill 1-2-3

Convection

Combination

1 2

3 4

5 6

Delay/

Stand

Clock

Stop/Cancel

down

Start

NN-A554W

hmin

min sec

110

Press clock pad

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

Press time pads

Enter time of day by pressing Time pads e.g. 11.25am (24hr clock).

Press clock pad

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

Press eleven

times

G Select cooking time

G Press this pad until the

power you require appears in the display window. The microwave symbol will also appear.

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 24 hour clock.

Clock

Press five times

Press twice

Inoperable

Power

Press level Wattage

once High 1000 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

N.B.

1. Maximum time that can be set on HIGH power is 30 min.

2. On all power levels, except HIGH power, the maximum time that can be set is 99 minutes,

50 seconds. The 1h pad is inoperable.

Example of how to set 11.25am.

Micr o Po wer

Start

G Press Start.

Clock

hmin

min sec

110

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:

e.g. 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:

e.g. 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. The microwave and defrost symbols will also appear.

• Press to select g or lb and oz. Default weight is g.

• Enter the weight by pressing the up & down pads. The “up” pad will start with the minimum weight for each food.

• Press Start.

Auto weight defrost - Chaos 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.

Start

down

1 Bread

100 - 900g (4oz - 2lb)

Bread and rolls. Turn at beep. Standing time 10-15 mins.

2 Meat items

200 - 1200g (7oz - 2lb 10oz)

Small pieces of meat, minced meat, chicken portions, steaks, chops. Turn at beeps. Standing time 15-30 mins.

3 Meat joints

400 - 2500g (14oz - 5lb 8oz)

Whole chicken, meat joints. Turn at beeps and shield. Standing time of at least 1 hour.

Program Weight range Suitable foods

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 24).

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 below and page 26).

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

1st Beep

Turn or Shield

2nd Beep

Turn or break up

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 “beepsʼʼ. 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)

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 e.g. 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 on page

25). Standing time of at least 1 hour should be allowed (rolled joints may require longer) before cooking to ensure the centre is fully defrosted.

Tips

Defrosting guidelines

Auto weight defrost programs

By selecting the DEFROST power level from the microwave power pad, and setting a time, you can defrost food in your microwave. The biggest challenge 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.

Defrosting using defrost power & time

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

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.

Meat Defrosting time Method Standing time

Beef/lamb/ 16-18 mins. Place in a suitable dish or on an upturned 60 mins.

Pork joint 450g (1lb) saucer or use a rack. Turn 3-4 times. Shield.

Minced beef 12 mins. Place in a suitable dish. 15 mins.

450g (1lb) Break up and turn 3-4 times.

Chops 10-12 mins. Place in a suitable dish in a single layer. 15 mins.

450g (1lb) Turn twice. Shield if necessary.

Sausages 12 mins. Place in a suitable dish in a single layer. 15 mins.

450g (1lb) Turn twice. Shield if necessary.

Bacon rashers 6-8 mins. Place in a suitable dish in a single layer. 10 mins.

450g (1lb) Turn twice. Shield if necessary.

Stewing steak 12 mins. Place in a suitable dish. 15 mins.

450g (1lb) Break up frequently.

Whole chicken 13-15 mins. Place in a suitable dish on an upturned saucer 60 mins.

450g (1lb) or use a rack. Turn 3-4 times. Shield.

Chicken portions 10-12 mins. Place in a suitable dish in a single layer. 30 mins.

450g (1lb) Turn twice. Shield if necessary.

Defrosting foods using defrost power & time

The times given below are a guideline only. Always check the progress of the food by opening the oven door and then

re-starting. For larger quantities adjust times accordingly. Food should not be covered during defrosting.

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