Microwave Ovens
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Well, I've been using microwave ovens for quite a while now and thought I knew them pretty well. Well, I do, but I still learned a few things, such as an easy 3-4 minute test to determine the strength of your oven (below). |
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Microwave Ovens and Food Safety pdf file Also, if you have a question about meat, poultry or egg products, call the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline toll free at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) Monday-Friday 10am to 4pm ET. Recorded food safety messages available 24/7. US Dept. of Agriculture, Food Safety & Inspection Service www.fsis.usda.gov |
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From Banquet (ConAgra Foods): Introduction Microwave Oven Basics Handling, Storing and Preparing Frozen Microwaveable Foods |
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One way to estimate the wattage of your oven, is a "Time-to-Boil" test: Measure a cup of water in a 2-cup glass measure. Add ice cubes and stir until the water is ice cold. Discard ice cubes and pour out water until you are left with 1 cup. Set the microwave on high for four minutes and watch the water through the window to see when it boils.
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If water boils in less than 2 minutes, it is a very high wattage oven 1,000 watts or higher. If water boils in 2 1/2 minutes, it is a high wattage oven about 800 watts or higher. If water boils in 3 minutes, it is an average wattage oven 650 to 700 watts or higher. If water boils in more than 3 minutes or not by 4, it is a slow oven 300 to 500 watts. |