Microwave Oven - Cooking Rejuvenated

Food has been the necessity of men from the time when the evolution of men happened. But earlier eating food was just a formality as men were totally unknown to the art of cooking. However as the time changed so did the men and its need for food. Today eating food is one of the important activities of a person’s daily life. Hence it is very essential for a normal human being to be very careful about his eating habits. It is because a person’s eating habits have a direct relationship to his health. So if a person will follow a proper eating routine then he will enjoy a great health, if not then he will encounter with series of health disorders. However in today’s life of hectic schedule a person’s eating routine is bound to suffer. Also the quality of food has gone from bad to worse. Thus to prevent people from facing all these problems the microwave oven is here.

As said above only the quality of food available today is not very good. Also since food is the only factor from where a person derives most of the essential nutrients therefore it has become very important to maintain the quality of food even after long intervals of time and Latest microwave oven just does that for its users. It maintains the nutrient value of the food and sustains them for a long period of time. In addition to that the microwave oven allows the heat generated through the electricity to go into the deepest portion of the food and reheat them. These microwave ovens can cook almost every thing and needless to say the food cooked in them is very tasty and nutritious at the same time.

There are also various other types of other microwave oven available in market i.e. convection microwave oven and oven grill microwave. Convection microwave oven are little different from the normal microwave oven. It is because these ovens are capable of cooking some extra items then the normal oven do. Also these convection microwave ovens are energy efficient appliances. Other type of oven is oven grill microwave. This type of microwave allows the users to grill the food, while cooking. Thus in this way this way these home appliances have entirely changed the method of cooking.

Thus it can be clearly seen that these latest microwave oven, convection microwave oven and oven grill microwave have completely changed the method of cooking food. Not only that they are extremely efficient appliances when it comes to preserving the nutrient quality of food over long period of time.

The author is a specialist in retail writing. Her writing skills reflect the outcome of years of exposure to the retail industry. Working with retail giants as a consultant has enriched her knowledge base and her passion for writing got fire.

Salient Features

With a whopping two cubic feet of interior capacity, it’s not likely that you’ll be able to find another microwave out there that can outdo the KitchenAid Architect® II KHHC2090S. This model’s convection feature is definitely another plus and goes hand-in-hand with its size. The convection feature essentially lets you turn this unit into a convection oven, microwave, and broiler all in one. You can cook anything from pizza and cornbread to filet mignon and even roasts with the convection feature.

Note: You can check out many more KitchenAid Microwave products at our KitchenAid Microwave Store.

The KitchenAid Architect® II KHHC2090S also has the TruCapture Ventilation System, which is the most efficient ventilation system you will ever find in a microwave/hood combination oven. This is a huge plus for any over-the-range microwave and this feature does not disappoint. While we all like the smell of food cooking, we don’t want the smell to linger in the house and on our clothes for days. Because of this, good ventilation is a must and the KitchenAid Architect® II KHHC2090S has the best one out there. Of course, with a model of this stratum you can expect the regular features found in most microwaves: a turntable, one-touch electronic controls, food-specific defrosting and programmable features. It is also very powerful, packing 1200 watts that are sure to cook your food faster and more evenly than anyother microwave.

Any Downsides?

The downside? Well, mostly the price. The KitchenAid Architect® II KHHC2090S usually comes in at a hefty $1000, which is much more than most folks want to spend on a microwave. Though this model pulls double or even triple duty with its convection capability, $1000 is still a bit much for most folks. However, if you have exquisite taste and a fat wallet to go with it, this may not be a problem for you. AS most folks who are eyeing a stainless steel microwave probably have a similarly-decorated kitchen and can afford it, this may not be a problem.

Another problem that seems to have cropped up is a bit of malfunctioning, which is a problem with some Whirlpool appliances (Whirlpool owns KitchenAid, as well as Amana). As long as you have some sort of warranty (the manufacturer’s or the retailer’s) you should be fine, however. To be fair, there are more positive reviews for the KitchenAid Architect® II KHHC2090S than negative ones.

The Bottom Line

In the end, if you are in the market for an attractive stainless steel over-the-range microwave, the KitchenAid Architect® II KHHC2090S may be the right microwave for you. Though it is definitely going to cost you, this microwave has all the features you could ever want and makes a great addition to any kitchen that prominently features a stainless steel motif.

As anyone that had ever heated up soup or coffee in a microwave can attest, a microwave without this feature is always in danger of overheating the liquid, often with catastrophic, sloppy results. AccuSimmer does away with all that mess and lets you enjoy your soup or coffee as it was intended, not scalding hot or splashed all over the microwave.

Note: You can check out many more Whirlpool Microwave products at our Whirlpool Microwave Store.

Looks Great

As far as looks goes, it doesn’t get much better than the Whirlpool Gold GH8155X. This microwave has a stainless steel finish which is very sought after in many modern kitchens due to its attractive, stylish appearance and the ease by which it can be cleaned.

What are the Drawbacks?

Unfortunately, though, there are some drawbacks. The Whirlpool Gold GH8155X is a bit pricey, usually fetching about $400-$500—though this is pretty standard for most over-the-range microwaves, if not a little bit less. Then there are the negative reviews. Truthfully, the line comes down at about 50/50 on this unit, with half saying it’s great and the other half saying it’s the worst. There seem to be a lot of Whirlpool haters out there, so you may want to take some of the reviews with a grain of salt. Don’t let this model get lumped in with dishwashers or refrigerators, as these are very different products.

The Bottom Line

Whirlpool is one of those brands that has had its up and downs and has been hit-or-miss at times, depending on the product. The Whirlpool Gold GH8155X microwave oven is one of those products that has had mixed results, depending on who you talk to. On one hand, you have some folks saying that it is a solid model that soars above its competitors, yet others say that they would never buy from Whirlpool ever again after owning a Whirlpool Gold GH8155X. What it all essentially boils down to is that it is your choice on whose opinion you want to trust.

At the very least, the Whirlpool Gold GH8155X is a great-looking appliance with a great feature in AccuSimmer. AccuSimmer is a feature not found in many microwaves out there and is very convenient for those who like to quickly heat their coffee up before they leave for work. If you’re in need of more counter space and can afford to buy an over-the-range microwave, you’re not likely to find a more affordable unit than the Whirlpool Gold GH8155X. The best thing you can do is make up your own mind when making a purchase such as this, rather than listening to reviews that may not be accurate.

Users have claimed that they have cooked pizza, oven-fried chicken, and even made cornbread with the convection feature. Couple this feature with the ample space within this unit (1.7 cubic feet) and you can see that this sort of cooking is certainly possible. The only downside to the convection feature is that it has been reported as being hard to grasp without going over the instructions several times. But, on the other hand, that’s what the instructions are there for. Even if the convection feature isn’t the most user-friendly, it is easy to use once you get the hang of it.

Note: You can look over many more Kenmore Microwave products at our Kenmore Microwave Store.

Other features of the Kenmore Elite 80829 include a turntable which can be turned off, a variable speed fan, an exterior underlight, and all of the bells and whistles that you find on cheaper models. Users have also reported that his model is incredibly quiet compared to less expensive models. It is available in black, white, and stainless—which is very highly sought after by many for its attractive appearance and ease in cleaning.

What are the downsides?

So is there a downside to this great product? Well, the price is pretty high at $600, but you truly are getting what you are paying for here. In addition to a microwave, you are also getting a convection oven in this package. This pretty much makes the Kenmore Elite 80829 no longer a small appliance, but rather an appliance. The only other disadvantage here is that Kenmore is a brand that is sold exclusively by Sears and if you don’t have a Sears nearby you are going to have to order this model if you want one (and probably paying exorbitant shipping fees in the process). Also keep in mind that since this is an over-the-range model that it may need some installation. If you are not prepared to do this yourself, you may have to pay someone to do it for you.

The Bottom Line

All in all, the Kenmore Elite 80829 is a great microwave for any family. If you are a busy mom or dad that occasionally needs to take shortcuts in the kitchen, this microwave can be a real lifesaver. The Kenmore Elite 80829 has all the features that cheaper microwaves have these days, plus tons of other little things that you probably never even thought of. The convection feature in particular lets you do things that no other microwave could ever do, like toast bread or bake a pizza. This feature is also handy if you have children that you trust with using the microwave, but don’t trust with using a standard oven. If you can afford it, the Kenmore Elite 80829 comes highly recommended.

Microwave ovens have multiple different types. When some people look at these microwaves, they simply notice the aesthetic changes, and do not pay attention to the actual inner workings of the microwave. Others will notice the changes in how the microwave oven works, with how fast it can heat things up, and how hot it can actually heat things. Taking these changes into consideration is the best way to understand what microwave you need.

One of the massive changes that brought microwave ovens into the talk of major appliances was the advent of the idea that the microwave should and could be placed over the range. Over-the-range microwaves finally took the microwave off of the counter and into the realm of the other appliances, which freed up counter space for the normal kitchen activities.

One of the other major changes to the small appliances is the strength of the microwave. While certain microwaves will have different strengths of their own, some microwaves will simply have higher strengths than others. This turns some microwaves into major appliances, as some microwaves can heat things in a faster and more efficient way.

There are a few important things that you should take into consideration before you actually purchase a new microwave oven. While the microwave is partially about the look (and the overall feel of the entire kitchen itself), there are many more aspects that many people will not even consider, but could actually affect how happy you are with your microwave purchase.

The first thing that you need to look for is the strength of the microwave. There will be microwaves that are too powerful for your needs, and there will also be microwaves that are simply too weak for your cooking needs. Asking those who work at a place that sells microwaves will be the best way to figure out the strength that you need.

When you understand the strength of your microwave oven choice, you will then need to turn your attention to the actual features of the microwave. While some simply want a timer and a door, others want to have a pop-out door, and others want to have multiple saved food settings.

When you have figured out all of the information that you need about your microwave oven, you can simply look at all of the prices to figure out exactly what you can afford with your current budget. Many should rely on their budget to guide their choice, as it is important to keep with that budget.

The last an final step to microwave ovens, which often is decided before the microwave is chosen, is the look of the microwave. Some people will want a black microwave, while others will want white, and others will want stainless steel. All of these colors make for interesting microwave ovens that fit in with the other appliances, such as the dishwasher and the oven.

If you are looking for microwave ovens, you should really look in two different places. The stores that are in person will allow you to see the microwave, understand how it looks, and figure out exactly what you want. Looking for the same microwave online will allow you to price compare for the same microwave oven at different areas so that you can know where you will find the exact microwave that you want for the lowest price possible.

Turbo Defrost is a great feature that lets you thaw foods quickly due to the food-specific and weight-specific buttons it has. Sensor Cook functions very similarly in that it has specialized buttons that you can use with one touch to cook anything from baked potatoes to popcorn. The inversion technology that the Panasonic Genius NN-H765BF uses is key, as it not only is a large part of the Turbo Defrost feature, but it also allows the microwave to more evenly heat food from the edge to the center because of the continuous cooking power it uses, rather than the on/off cycling found in other microwaves.

Note: You can look over many more Panasonic Microwave products at our Panasonic Microwave Store.

Product Details: The Panasonic Genius NN-H765BF also features a large cooking space; 1.6 cubic feet to be precise. This is definitely a huge step up from the typical “dorm-sized” microwave found in many homes where counter space is at a premium.

Downsides

In fact, it is this appliance’s size that might be its only drawback. If you really need all the counter space you can get, you don’t want this microwave taking up the majority of it. Its exterior dimensions are 21-7/8 inches in width, 11-15/16 inches in height and 19-7/16 inches in depth – all of which adds up to a lot of counter space.

If counter space is not an issue, however, you really cannot go wrong with the Panasonic Genius NN-H765BF. This model is very affordable, running usually about $100-$160. This is an incredible price considering all the extras you get with this model. The inverter technology alone is worth it to anyone who has ever bitten into something cooked in the microwave that seemed done on the outside, but was ice cold in the middle. Inverter technology directly combats this kind of disappointment and you won’t be able to live without it once you’ve tried it.

The Bottom Line

The Panasonic Genius NN-H765BF is pretty much a good all-around microwave for just about anyone. It’s not so tiny that it will look like a leftover from your college days, but not the big monster microwave that you find in the kitchen of a busy housewife. This microwave is right in the middle and is just about the same size of most microwaves found in the kitchens of most middle-class families across the nation.

If you want a countertop microwave that has all the features and then some, the Panasonic Genius NN-H765BF is the perfect microwave to consider. Panasonic is a name that has been associated with quality for many years and they do not disappoint with this microwave. Give it a try—it will live up to the hype.

The Sharp R-230 is a countertop microwave that features a turntable carousel, CompuDefrost, Minute Plus and Short Cuts. The turntable obviously spins as you cook and is absolutely essential in a microwave if you don’t want to have to stop the microwave to turn your food every two minutes. CompuDefrost is a nice feature that works a bit better than the defrost options you find on most microwaves these days. Instead of merely designating what kind of food you are defrosting (beef, chicken, pork, etc.), you also designate the amount of food being defrosted, and the microwave will beep at you when it’s time to turn the meat over.

Note: You can look over many more Sharp Microwave products at our Sharp Microwave Store.

Minute Plus is another nice feature that will quickly become indispensible once you start using it. This feature lets you hit one button to immediately start cooking at full power for one minute. If you want more time, just keep hitting the button. Each push gets you another minute. Short Cuts is another great feature that lets you more easily melt, soften, or warm food without burning it.

Product Details
Aesthetically speaking, the Sharp R-230 is very pleasing. It isn’t anything fancy by any stretch, but it is available in both black and white, making it easy to place in just about any kitchen. Its exterior depth is 14.62 inches, its exterior height is 11.37 inches, and its exterior width is 18.12 inches.

Downsides

On the inside, the Sharp R-230 has a capacity of .8 cubic feet, which is a bit on the small side by most standards. In a similar vein, this microwave only has wattage of 800. Though this is not an issue for most, it is a downside if you need to defrost large slabs of meat for your family. On the other hand, this microwave is very affordable, with most only costing about $60-$100.

The Bottom Line

So if you’re single, a couple, or a couple with a single child, the Sharp R-230 is perfect for you. While larger families will probably need a larger microwave, this model is perfect for those who don’t need a whole lot of room in their microwave and need all the countertop space they can get. The Sharp R-230 doesn’t pack the punch of some of the more extravagant models out there, but it does have a lot of extra bells and whistles that you find on much more expensive models.

If you’re in the market for a new microwave, this model comes highly recommended by many who swear that that have been using their Sharp R-230 for years and it’s still going strong.

The long and short of it is that the Sharp R-305KS is cheap and easy to use. While it doesn’t have all of the features of more expensive machines, it has enough for it’s intended environment, the smaller kitchen or space where a lot of power for the price is desirable. But it’s not lacking in sufficient functions, namely, warm, soften, reheat and defrost options. And, as you would expect, it has a popcorn button. Moreover, the Sharp brand has an excellent reputation, and it’s attention to aesthetics is evident in the classy look and easy to clean stainless steel exterior.

Note: You can look over many more Sharp Microwave products at our Sharp Microwave Store.

One drawback, that is common with less expensive microwaves, is that in selecting the power level, you have to hit the power level button a few times. In order to reach a power level of 30%, you’ll have to punch the button eight times. But, this is a minor inconvenience considering the modest price.

Product Details

• 1100-watt mid-sized microwave oven with 1-cubic-foot capacity
• 12-5/8-inch-diameter turntable provides even heating; 23 automatic settings
• 4 defrost, 6 cook, and 6 reheat options; Short Cuts for melting, softening, and warming
• Minute Plus; popcorn key; auto-touch controls; 4-digit 2-color lighted display; interior light
• Measures 20-1/2 by 17 by 12-1/4 inches; 1-year limited warranty

Bottom Line: The Sharp R-305KS will serve as a compact, nicely powered workhorse for many years.

Use the Right Plastics

Be sure to use the right plastics. While plastic containers work well in the microwave, not all of them are created equal. Some will deform or melt when microwaved. Others can leach toxins and harmful substances into the food inside them. That’s why it’s important only to use plastics that are meant for microwave use. Don’t reuse packaging like butter tubs in the microwave, and only heat packaged foods that have instructions for use in the microwave. If a food doesn’t have these instructions, take it out of the packaging before heating.

Cook Smaller Pieces

It’s best to cook smaller pieces in a microwave oven. Cut larger items into uniformly sized and shaped pieces, and spread them evenly in the dish you’re cooking in. You may need to rotate or move these food pieces around while cooking. Thick areas should be near the outside walls of the container, since the outer part of foods cook faster in the microwave.

Some Foods Should be Pierced

Anything that has a shell, skin, or impermeable outside coating should be pierced before you cook it. This includes eggs and many vegetables. Otherwise, steam may build up inside and cause an explosive reaction. It’s also important to use a slightly larger container than you would in an ordinary oven - this helps your food heat more evenly. A round or oval shaped container is better for microwave cooking than a rectangle or square. That’s because corners can cause heat build up.

Cooking Times

If you’re using a microwave recipe, cook food for the shorter time in the range stated. You can always cook food longer, but overcooked food is ruined. If you don’t have a turntable in your microwave, stop the machine periodically to rotate food. Dishes inside your oven will be extremely hot - use an oven mitt or pad.

Lids and Covers

Lids should be used for anything you’d cook covered in the oven. This helps food cook more evenly, and allows it to retain moisture. Leave all lids slightly open so that pressure won’t build up inside the container. When you remove food from the microwave, lift lids carefully. Open containers facing away from you to prevent burns. Salting microwave food should be done after it’s cooked. That’s because salt can cause microwaved foods to dry out.

Some Ideas

When baking, you can soften solid sticks of butter by heating them for about half a minute on fifty percent power. When warming heavy cream or sour cream, use a low setting to prevent curdling. If your brown sugar has gotten hard, slice an apple or put a piece of bread into a loosely covered container with the sugar. Bread crumbs are made by microwaving cubed bread until stale, then crushing it inside a plastic bag.

Frozen Meats

If you’re using frozen meat, individual pieces can be separated by defrosting for thirty seconds to a minute. Then, if you wish to cook it further, arrange it evenly in the dish. You can also drain hamburger fat by microwaving the meat in a plastic colander on top of a bowl or other dish. The fat runs into the dish and out of the meat.

So, there you have it. Enjoy cooking with your microwave oven safely and effectively.

1 large (about 3-1/2 lb.) spaghetti squash, cut in half, discard seeds
4 bacon strips, diced
3 tablespoons butter or stick margarine
1 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese

Spaghetti Squash Supremo:

Cut squash in half lengthwise; discard seeds. Place one squash half cut side down on a microwave-safe plate. Cover and microwave on HIGH for 8 minutes or until easily pierced with a fork, turning once. Repeat with second squash half. When cool enough to handle, scoop out squash, separating strands with a fork; set aside.

In a skillet, sauté bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove to paper towels; drain, reserving drippings.

Add the butter, brown sugar, salt and pepper to the drippings. Stir in squash and bacon; heat through. Remove from the heat; stir in cheese just until blended. Serve immediately.

Yield: 4 servings.

Courtesy of Aaron’s A to Z Garden of Information