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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 300ml
(
1
⁄
2
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.
Containers to use
OVEN GLASS
Glass that is heat
resistant e.g. Pyrex
®
,
is ideal. DO NOT
USE FOR GRILLING.
Do not use delicate
glass which may
crack due to the heat
from the food. Do not
use lead crystal
which may crack or
arc.
CHINA AND CERAMIC
Glazed china plates,
saucers, bowls,
mugs and cups can
be used if they are
heat resis tant.
Porcelain and
ceramic are also
ideal. Fine bone
china should only be
used for reheating
for short periods, otherwise the change in
tempera ture may crack the dish or craze the
finish. Do not use dishes with a metal rim or
pattern. Do not use jugs or mugs with glued
handles, since the glue can melt in a
microwave.
POTTERY, EARTHENWARE,
STONEWARE
Only use if completely
glazed. Do not use if
partially glazed or
unglazed, as they are
able to absorb water
which will absorb
microwave energy,
making the container
very hot and slowing
down the cooking of
food.
FOIL/METAL CONTAINERS
NEVER ATTEMPT TO
COOK IN FOIL OR
METAL con tai ners –
the microwaves
cannot pass through
and the food will not
heat evenly – this
may also damage
your oven. Use
wooden kebab sticks
instead of metal skewers.
Quick Check Guide to Cooking Utensils
Choosing the correct container is a very important factor in deciding the success or failure of
your cooking.
Testing Dishes for Suitability
