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Stoves and ovens (Part 3)

by Staff Writer

I was once horrified at the very idea of an appliance that cooked anything in 30 seconds. I’ve since changed my tune, and now I wouldn’t be without a microwave as basic kitchen equipment.

Probably the most important thing you need to know is that they are not all the same. Their cooking power ranges from 700 to 1500 watts, and this can make a big difference in the way things turn out. If your microwave doesn’t say on it somewhere what the wattage is (or you just can’t find it) you can check the manufacturer’s website and find out.

Like the traditional stove, if you’ve still got the book that came with it, it’s a good idea to read it.

Once you get past the basic popcorn, heating water for tea, and warming up frozen dinners, there’s still plenty you can do.

A microwave is great for making pudding and sauces of all kinds, saving you the need to stand at the stove and stir for ages.

I really like the way fish turns out, too.

You might want to check out a microwave cookbook or two from your local library to see all the things you can make in a hurry.

Just keep in mind that things really won’t brown, but in an emergency you can actually bake cakes or even bread in a microwave, if the lack of any kind of crust is not important.


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