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Microwave Terms
Countertop Microwave Oven
22
Arcing
Arcing is the microwave term for sparks in the
oven. Arcing is caused by:
• Metal or foil touching the side of the oven.
• Foil that is not molded to food (upturned
edges act like antennas).
• Metal such as twist-ties, poultry pins, gold-
rimmed dishes.
• Recycled paper towels containing small metal
pieces.
Covering
Covers hold in moisture, allow for more even
heating and reduce cooking time.
Venting plastic wrap or covering with wax
paper allows excess steam to escape.
Shielding
In a regular oven, you shield chicken breasts or
baked foods to prevent over-browning. When
microwaving, you use small strips of foil to
shield thin parts, such as the tips of wings and
legs on poultry, which would cook before
larger parts.
Standing
Time
When you cook with regular ovens, foods such
as roasts or cakes are allowed to stand to finish
cooking or to set.
Standing time is especially important in
microwave cooking. Note that a microwaved
cake is not placed on a cooling rack.
Venting
After covering a dish with plastic wrap, you
vent the plastic wrap by turning back one
corner so excess steam can escape.