Panasonic NN-CT555WBPQ, NN-CT565MBPQ Instruction manual

Operating Instructions & Cookery Book

Microwave Oven

ModelNo.

NN-CT559W

NN-CT569M

NN-CT579S

NN-CT552W

NN-CT562M

NN-A574S

NN-A554W

NN-A524M

For domestic use only

Important safety instructions

Please read carefully and keep for future reference

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Standard Conversion Chart

Weight

1

/

oz – 15g

2

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

1

/

tsp – 3ml

2

1tsp – 5ml
1tbsp – 15ml

1

/

pt – 150ml

4

1

/

pt – 300ml

2

3

/

pt – 450ml

4

1pt – 600ml

3

/

1

pt – 1 litre

4

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

1000W

E

Microwave symbol

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.

The IEC (60705) power
output (watts)

The heating category for
small packs of food

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.

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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 technology. This 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 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, or contact us
on-line at [e-mail] Alternatively
visit our website at www.theideaskitchen.co.uk

Home Appliance Innovation Centre
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
Placement of oven 3

4noituaC
Before using your oven 4
Care and cleaning 5

6ecnanetniaM
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

23-13gnillirG •

• Convection cooking 33-34

• Combination cooking 34-41

Auto weight programs - 42-46

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

Recipes

Soups and starters 69-71

Meat and poultry 76-84
Pasta, rice & beans 85-87
Cheese and egg dishes 88-90
Vegetables/vegetarian 91-96

Baking guidelines 105-106

Questions and answers 109
Technical specification 110

57-27hsiF

89-79secuaS

001-99yrtsaP

201-101gnikaB
401-201stresseD

801-701sevreserP

1

Important safety instructions

Please read carefully and keep for future reference.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

2

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Unpacking your oven

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

2.

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

Cord

3.

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.

Placement of 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. The oven must be placed on a flat, stable surface 850 mm above the floor, with rear of oven

placed against a back wall. For proper operation the oven must have sufficient air flow. At
least 15cm/6" should be clear over the top of the oven, and one side of the oven should be
kept open.

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.

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3

Caution: Hot surfaces

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.

Before using 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.

3.

Storage of accessories

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

4.

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.

4

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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. 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

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

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

operating parts inside the oven, water should not be allowed to seep into the ventilation
openings.

5. If the control panel

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

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

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

8. The roller ring and oven cavity floor

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

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.

should be cleaned with a damp cloth. To prevent damage to the

becomes dirty, clean with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh detergents

inside or around the outside of the oven door, wipe with a soft cloth.

for cleaning. Wash the turntable

should be cleaned regularly to avoid excessive

. When food splatters

the walls of the oven

some foods may

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5

Maintenance of your oven

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.

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.

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.

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 0844 8443868. Most major credit and debit cards accepted. Ensure
you quote the correct model number.

6

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Parts 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.

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7

The glass turntable and roller ring are the only

See-through oven window

Caution label

Parts of your oven

Glass turntable

accessories used for microwave cooking.

Heating
elements

External air vents

Identification
plate

Door safety
lock system

Caution label

Microwave
feed guide
(Do not remove)

Control panel

Power cord

Power cord
label

Door safety
lock system

Wire rack

8

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.

Metal tray

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.

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Important information – read carefully

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.

Foods low in moisture.

2.

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.

3.

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.

4.

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.

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9

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.

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 donʼt 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.

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, 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.

10

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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.

Grilling.

14.

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

Fan motor operation.

15.

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.

Containers.

16.

Before use check that utensils/containers are suitable for use in microwave ovens. See page

18.

Babies bottles and food jars.

17.

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.)

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11

Microwaving principles

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.

How Microwaves cook food

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
(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.

1

⁄

-2 inches

2

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).

12

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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.

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13

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.

14

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.

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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.

15

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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.

16

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.

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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 spots 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.

17

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Containers to use

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.

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

1. Fill a microwave safe measur ing jug with

2. Place it on the turntable along side the

3. Heat on HIGH power for 1 minute.

1

300ml (

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.

⁄

pt) cold water.

2

Quick check guide to cooking utensils

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.

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

®

style

18

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Containers to use

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.

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.

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19

Containers to use

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.

20

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NN-A554W

Control panels

NN-CT559W / NN-CT569M / NN-CT579S / NN-CT552W / NN-CT562M / NN-A574S /
NN-A554W / NN-A524M *

(1)

(2)

(6)

(7)

(8)

(5)

(10)

(11)

(14)

1 10
h min

1 10

min sec

Micr o Power

Grill 1-2-3

Convection

Combination

Delay/

Clock

Stand

Stop/Cancel

1
2

3
4

5
6

7

8

9

10

lb

oz

up

Start

down

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

)3( )3(

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.

)4()9(

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:

(13)

Press to start operating the oven. If
during cooking the door is opened or

(12)

(15)

Stop/Cancel pad is pressed once, Start
pad has to be pressed again to
continue cooking.

NOTE: If an operation is set and Start Pad

* The design of your control panel may
vary from the panel displayed, but the words

on the pads will be the same.

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.

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.

IP2784_37X60BP_00_091016.pdf 23 2009-10-16 15:41:42

21

Let’s start to use your oven

NN-CT559W / NN-CT569M / NN-CT579S /
NN-CT552W / NN-CT562M / NN-A574S /
NN-A554W / NN-A524M *

1 10
h min

1 10

min sec

Micr o Power

Grill 1-2-3

Convection

Combination

1
2

3
4

5
6

7

8

9

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).

3

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.

10

Delay/

Clock

Stand

Stop/Cancel

* The design of your control panel may
vary from the panel displayed, but the
words on the pads will be the same.

lb

oz

up

Start

down

NN-A554W

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.

22

IP2784_37X60BP_00_091016.pdf 24 2009-10-16 15:41:42

hmin

min sec

110

110

G

G

G

G

G

Setting the clock

Clock

Micr o Power

Start

G

Clock

hmin

min sec

110

110

Example of how to set 11.25am.

Press eleven

times

Press five times

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 twice

Inoperable

Press clock pad

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

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.

Microwave cooking and defrosting

There are 6 different microwave power levels available.

Selecting microwave power level

Power

Select cooking time

Press this pad until the
power you require appears
in the display window. The
microwave symbol will
also appear.

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

Press Start.

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.

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23

Microwave cooking and defrosting

Start

oz

lb

up

down

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.

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.

• 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.

Program Weight range Suitable foods

1 Bread

2 Meat items

3 Meat joints

100 - 900g (4oz - 2lb)

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

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

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

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

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

24

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Auto weight defrost programs

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.

1st Beep

Turn or Shield

1st Beep

2nd Beep

Turn or break up

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25

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 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.

Defrosting guidelines

Tips

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.

26

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)

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Defrosting using defrost power & time

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

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

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.

Chickens and joints of meat will require
shielding during defrosting.

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

IP2784_37X60BP_00_091016.pdf 29IP2784_37X60BP_00_091016.pdf 29 2009-10-16 15:41:432009-10-16 15:41:43

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

27

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

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

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

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

450g (1lb) Break up frequently.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

28

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