Microwave cooking opens new possibilities in convenience and flexibility for cooking containers. Although new microwave accessories are constantly being introduced, many dishes that you will find in the kitchen cupboard are suitable for microwave cooking and heating. If a dish is not made from metal and does not have a metallic trim and you are not sure of its suitability check in the following way.

Microwave Cooking Containers

DISH TEST 

(How to test if a container is safe). Fill a measuring jug with 300ml ( ½ pt . ) cold water and place it in the microwave along with the container to be tested. Heat for 1min. at HIGH. If the dish is suitable, it should remain comfortably cool and the water should be warm. If the container is warm do not use it. This test cannot be used for plastic containers.

 JARS & BOTTLES 

Jars and bottles can be used to warm food provided the metal lids are removed first. Do not cook in these containers as the heat of the food can cause them to crack.

STRAW, WICKER & WOOD STRAW, 

wicker and wood can be used for short times, such as when heating dinner rolls. Prolonged use can cause the wood to dry out and split. 

 DINNERWARE 

Most ceramic dishes and dinnerware can be used, however, check the manufacturer's care information. Do not use unglazed or partly glazed china as this will absorb microwave energy. Do not use dishes with a gold or silver line. 

Do not heat liquids in containers marked "Iron-stone". Do not use cups or mugs with glued-on handles. Do not use delicate glassware. Although the glassware may be transparent to microwave energy, the heat of the food may cause the glass to break. Do not use Lead crystal. 

BROWNING DISHES 

Browning dishes are used to sear the outside of quick-cooking items such as chops, steaks, and sausages. Think of them as a microwave frying pan. Follow recipe directions for use. Always use oven gloves to lift this dish. 

COOKWARE 

Heat-resistant glass cookware is invaluable in microwave cooking, makes such as Arcopol, Pyrex, Corningware, Fire King, and Jeanette Glass® have a wide range of different-shaped dishes, many of which you may already have.

PLASTICS 

There are many special microwave containers on the market. Check the manufacturer's recommendations concerning microwave safety. As a general guide plastics should be dishwasher safe. Do not use margarine cartons, polystyrene cups or trays, melamine, or other soft plastics which distort with heat. 

METAL 

Do not use metal containers or utensils. These reflect microwave energy and stop the food from heating evenly. Metal can also cause " arcing ". This is seen as a blue spark. It can damage your oven. Small amounts of aluminum foil can be used for shielding, to prevent thin areas of food from overcooking. Do not use foil-lined containers. Shallow foil trays can be used providing they are no more than 2.5 cm ( 1 inch ) high. Heating will only take place from the top so times will be longer. 

METAL SKEWERS 

Metal skewers can be used providing there is a high proportion of food to metal. Skewers should not touch each other or the sides of the oven cavity. 

PAPER 

Paper plates, napkins, polyester-coated board dishes, kitchen towels, and greaseproof paper can all be used in the microwave. Do not use them more than once as they can dehydrate and burn. Do not use recycled paper products such as brown paper bags as they can cause arcing and can ignite.

ROASTING BAGS 

Roasting and cooking bags can be used in the microwave. However, do not use metal twist ties. Secure the bag with an elastic band or cut a strip off the bag and use this to tie the bag. Do not use Auto Sensor. 

CLING FILM 

We recommend the use of cling film as a covering for dishes in most recipes and on the Auto sensor. After heating always loosen the cling film. Remove the lids away from you.

Read Also: Microwave Cooking Techniques