Panasonic NN-3456 Product guide

MICROWAVE
QPERATItiG INSTRUCTIONS
& COOKERY BOOK
For Models; NN-3456 / NN-3496
NN-E238Y / NN-E238N
NN-3256 / NN-E218N

standard Conversion Chart
Weight Capacity
''hO'Z
-
15g /^tsp
-
3ml
102
-
25g
Itsp
-
5mi
202
-
50g 1 t bsp
-
15mi
302
-
75g
Vipt
-
150ml
402
-
lOOg ■ y^pt
-
300m!
5o2
-
150g
%pt
_
450ml
602
-
175g
1 p t
-
600mt
702
-
200 g
VApi
-
1 litre
802
-
225g
9oz
-
250g !
IO 02
-
275g
II 0 2
-
300g
12 oz 350g
13oz
-
375g
1402
-
400g
15oz 425g
1 l b/ 160 Z
-
450g
When using recipes in this book always follow metric or imperial
measurements. Do not combine the two. In some recipes the
conversions are not a direct equivalent due to recipe result.
Important
Your oven is rated 800 Watts (lEC). When using other cookbooks
remember to adjust cooking times accordingly. Take care also when
using packet instructions on convenience foods. ALWAYS check the
i progress of the food as it cooks or reheats by simply pressing the door
OPEN button and after checking the progress of the food, press START
to restart the cooking time.
Failure to follow the Instructions given In this Cookbook may affect
i the recipe result and in some instances may be dangerous.
Acknowledgements:
Photography: Sue Atkinson, Arc Studios, Windsor.
Film Making and
Origination: Deltaset Ltd
Printed by; Mid Wales Litho Ltd

Microwaving with Panasonic
Microwaving is still a relatively new method of
cooking and so even if this is not your first
microwave oven, do pfease read the opening
chapters of this cookbook to achieve perfect
results every time.
Microwaves leave most foods tastier and leave you
with less washing up, but don’t expect to become
a perfect microwave cook overnight - some of the
nit^Li iuds art? v©ry different to those usew in
conventional cooking. The cooking times are short
because microwaves quickly convert energy into
heat in the food - because of this read carefully the
section of General Guidelines and Containers to
Use.
The Home Economists at the Test Kitchen have care¬
fully selected recipes in each chapter to give you a
basis on which to convert your own favourites.
Should you require any further help or explanation,
phone our COOKERY ADVICE LINE: 01344 8621C«
or write to;
The Microwave Test Kitchen
DonaennSr; ElectronlCS U-K.
Willoughby Road
Bracknell
Berks
RG12dFP
When writing, be sure to state your mode! number
and daytime telephone nLimber.
Contents
Unp«u:king your oven .2-3
Important information .4-5
Parts of your oven.6
'CdhTfbl Panel.7
Operating instructions .8-9
Containers to use.10-11
Microwaving Principles.12
NUccowaving Guidelines.13-14
Selecting Micro Power Levels .1b
Defrosting Guidelines . 16
Defrosting Chart . 17
Auto Programs.18
Increasing and Decreasing Recipes .19
Using Recipes from Other Books.19
care of your Oven.19
Reheating Charts .20-22
Cooking Charts . 23-26
Recipes
rreh ■ ..27
Meat and Poultry .28
. Cheese and Snacks.29
... 30
Vegetables.31
Desserts.32
Cakes.33
Operating Instructions I
Pages 2-9 of this cookbook are Operating j
Instructions. These must be read prior to [
operating the machine. Failure to read these |
instructions could rsstjit in ciomsQw to your ov©n ^
HEATING CATEGORY
Your oven is Heating Category D and this is
displayed on the front of your oven door. The
information on this label will assist you in using
new instructions on food packs to enable you to
program the best heating time in your oven.
_ The lEC (705) power
output (watts)
— The heating category for
small packs of food
Microwave symbol
At our busy Test Kitchen in Bracknell, all the ovens
are especially programmed for the UK market and
the recipes are tested many times to ensure you
achieve successful results every time.
800 W
D
The serial number of this product may be found on the
rear of the oven, You should note the model number Model No.^_
and the serial number of this oven in the space
provided and retain this book as a permanent record of * ’-
your purchase tor future reference. Date of Purchase

For your safety read the following information carefully
This appliance is suppiied with a moulded three pin
mains plug for your safety and convenience. A 13 amp
fuse is fitted in this plug. Should the fuse need to be
replaced, please ensure that the replacement fuse has a
rating of 13 amps and that it is approved by ASTA or BSt
to BS1362. Check for the ASTA mark or the 8SI
mark ^ on the body of the fuse.
If the fuse cover is detachable, never use the plug
with the cover omitted. If a replacement fuse cover ^
required, ensure that it is the same colour as that
visible on the face of the plug (ie Red or Orange). A
r^tacement fuse cover can be purchased from your
local Panasonic Dealer.
HOW TO REPLACE THE FUSE
Open the fuse compartment with a
screwdriver and replace the fuse.
IF THE FITTED MOULDED PLUG IS
UNSUITABLE FOR THE SOCKET
OUTLET IN YOUR HOME THEN THE FUSE SHOULD BE
REMOVED AND THE PLUG CLTT OFF AND DISPOSED OF
SAFELY AND AN APPROPRIATE ONE FITTED. THERE IS
A DANGER OF SEVERE ELECTRICAL SHOCK IF THE CUT
OFF PLUG IS INSERTED INTO ANY 13 AMP SOCKET.
If a new plug is to be fitted, please observe the wiring
code as shown below. If in any doubt, please consult a
qualified electrician. (For U.K. Models only)
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED.
IMPORTANT: The wires in this mains lead are coloured
in accordance with the following code:
Green-and-yeiiow: Earth
Blue: NeiJtral
Brown* Uve
As the colours of the wire in the mains read of &iis
apf^iance may not correspond with the coloured markings
identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured GPEEN-ANO-VELLOVV must
be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked
with the letter E or by the Earth symbol —1— or coloured
GREEN or GREEN-AND-YELLOW
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be cor^nected to
the terminal m the plug which is marked with the letter N
or coloured BLACK
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be conriected
to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter
L or coloured RED.
Vottage A
ITid tiSSSTm'usVfeo same as specified on
this microwave oven. Using a higher voltage than that
whfch’fe ^jeclfied ts dangerous and m^ rc^it in a
fire Of other fype of accident causing damage
Do not immerse cord, plug or oven sn water Keep cord
away from heated surfaces Do not let cord hang over
the ^ge of table or worktop. Oo not plug your oven, in
via an evtension cable as this can be dangerous. It is
important to plug the oven directly into a wall socket.
The back of the appliance heats up duhng use Do not
allow the cord to be in contact with the back of the
appliance or cabinet surface
Unpacking your oven
1. Examine Your Oven
Unpack oven, remove all packing material, and
examine the oven for any damage such as dents,
broken door latches or cracks in the door. Notify
dealer immediately if unit Is damaged. Do NOT install
2. Quarantee Card
Fill out and post the pre-
addressed guarantee card.
3. Cord
If the supply cord of this
aptHiance is damaged, it must be replaced by the
special cord available or^iy Ircm the manufacturer.
N.B. The appliance should be inspected for damage to
the door seals and door seal areas and if these areas
damaged the appliance should not be operated until it
has been repair^ by serv'ce technician trained by the
manufacturer.
DO NOT REMOVE ADHESIVE PLASTIC FILM FROM INSIDE OF DOOR OR OVER VENTS ON OVEN CF'LtNG
Placement of your oven
Placement of Oven
1. Oven must be placed on a flat, stable surface. For
proper operation, the oven must have sufficient air
flow, ie 5cm/2" at the side: i5cm/6‘ clear over the
top: 10cm/4" at the rear.
2. Do not place the microwave oven on a ^etf directly
above a gas or electric hob. This may be a safety
hazard and the oven may be damaged.
3. Do not block air vents on the rear and bottom or top
of the cabinet. Do not place any articles on the tc^ of
the oven on top of the top vents. H aw vents are
t^ocked during operation, the oven may overheat. If
the oven over hea t s , a thermal safety device will turn
the oven off. The oven will remain inoperable with
blank display until it has cooled.
4. Do not use outdoors.
2

Using your oven
1. This oven must not be operated by Microwave
without food in the oven. Operation when empty wiM
damage the appliance. For mode's NN-3256 / NN-
E2t8N, always zero the timer vjhen food is removed
from the oven.
2. Chiidren should be kept av^ay from the oven at all
times and should only be allowed to operate the oven
under supervision. Ensure that children do not touch
the hot outer casing after operation of the oven.
3. S torage of accessories. Do not store any objects
other than oven accessories inside the oven in case it
is accidentally turned on. In case of electronic failure,
oven can be turned off at wall socket.
Maintenance of your oven
1. W HEN YOUR OVEN REQUIRES A SERVICE call your
local Panasonic engineer (0990-357357) Customer
support. It is dangerous for anyone other than a
service technician trained by the manufacturer to
perform repair service. Do not attempt to remove the
outer casing of the oven.
2. Do not attempt to tamper with or make any
adjustments or repairs to door, control panel housing,
safety interlock switches or any other part of the
oven. Do not remove outer panel from oven. The
door seals and door seal areas should always be kept
clean - use a camp cioth.
3. The oven lamp must be
replaced by a service
technicisui trained by the
manufacturer. DO NOT
attempt to remove the
outer casing from the
oven.
4. Spare parts may be
ordered from SEME 01280-823523. Ensure you quote
the correct model number,
Technical specification
Rated Voltage
Required Power
Output Power
Outer Dimensions
Oven Cavity Dimensions
Operating Frequency
Weight
23a-240v 50H2
1.250W
800 W (1EC.705)
297mm (H) x 458mm (VV) x 315mm (D)
207mm (H) x 282mm (W) x 282mm {D)
2.450MHz
14kg
Weight and Dimensions shown are approximate.
This appliance was produced to BS 800.
3

Important information - Read Carefully
Short Cooking Times
As microwave cooking times are much shorter than other
cooking methods it is essentiai that recommended
cooking tsmes are not exceeded without first checking
the food.
Cooking times given in the cookbook are approximate.
Factors that may affect cooking times are: preferred
degree of cooking, starting temperature, attitude, volume,
size and shape of foods and utensils used. As you
become familiar with the oven, you will be able to adjust
these factors.
It is better to undercook rather than overcook foods. If
food is undercooked, it can always be returned to the
oven for further cooking. If food is overcooked, nothir^g
can be done. Always start with minimum cooking times.
Important.
If the recommended cooking times are exceeded the
food wiil be spoiled and in extreme circumstances
could catch fire and possibly damage the interior of
the oven.
4. Boiled Eggs.
Do r»ot boil eggs in their
shell in your microwave.
Raw eggs boiled in their
shelts can explode
causing injury.
5 .
.T- ffe;-. -n 'l : '
Foods wdth Skins.
Potatoes, apples, egg
•.-Qlk, v.-hofe vegetabres
arvS sausages are
ex^npies of food with
non porous skins. These
must be pierced using a
fork before cooking to
prevent bursting.
1. S mall quantities of food.
Take care when heating small quantities of food as
these can easily burn, dry out or catch on fire if
cooked too long. Always set short cooking times and
check the food frequently.
NB. If materials inside the even should Ignite, keep
oven door closed, turn oven off. and disconnect the
power cord, or shut off power
at the fuse or circuit breaker
panel.
NEVER OPERATE THE
OVEN WITHOUT FOOD.
2 . F oods low In moisture.
Take care when heating
foods low in moisture, eg
bread items, chocolate,
popcorn, biscuits and
pastries. These can easily
burn, dry out or catch on
fire if cooked too long,
3. C hristmas Pudding.
Christmas puddmgs and
other foods high in fats or
sugar, eg. jam. mince
pies, must not be over
heated. These foods
must never be left
unattended as with over
cooking these foods can
ignite.
e. Liquids.
When heating liquids,
eg soup, sauces and
beverages in your
microv/ave oven,
overheating the hqurd
beyond boiling point
can occur without
evidence of bubblir»g.
This could result irt a sudden boil over of the hot
liquid. To prevent this possibility the following steps
should be taken:
a) Avoid using straight-sided contair*ers with nanpw
necks.
b) Do not overheat.
cj Stir the liquid before placing the container in the
oven and again halfway through the heating time
d) After heating, allow to stand in the oven tor a
short time, stimng again before carefully removing
the container.
7. Lids.
Always remove the lids of jars and containers and
takeaway food containers before you microwave
them. If you don't then steam and preroure Height
build up inside and cause an explosion even after the
microwave cooking has stopped
8. Deep Fat Frying.
Do not attempt to deep fat
fry in your oven,

9. Meat Thermometer.
Use a meat thermometer to check the degree of
cooking of roasts and poultry only when meat has
been removed from the microwave. If undercooked,
return to the oven and cook for a few more minutes
at the recommended power
(eve!. Do not leave a
conventional meal
thermometer in the oven when
microwaving.
12. S tanding Time.
Standing time refers to the
period at the end of
cooking or reheating when
food is left before being
eaten, ie. it is a rest time
which allows the heat in
the food to continue to
conduct to the centre, thus
eliminating cold spots. See
page 14 for details.
10. Paper, Plastic.
Carefully attend the
appliance if paper, plastic
or other combustible
materials are used as
containers or for covering.
Do not use wire twist-ties
with roasting bags as
arcing will occur.
Do not use re-cycled paper
products, eg Kitchen roll unless they say they are
specifically designed for use «n a microwave oven.
These products contain impurities which may cause
sparks and/or fires when used.
11. Reheating.
It is essential that
reheated food is served
“piping hot".
Remove the food from
the oven and check that
it is “piping hot", ie steam
is being emitted from all
parts and any sauce is
bubbling. {If you wish you
may choose to check the
food has reached 72'C
with a food thermometer
“ but remember do not use this thermometer inside
the microwave.)
For foods that cannot be stirred, eg lasagne,
shephe.'ds pie, the centre should be cut with a knife
to test it is well heated through. Even if a
manufacturer’s packet instructions have been
foIlov;ed always check the food is piping hot before
serving and if in doubt return your food to the oven
for further heating.
13. K eeping Your Oven Clean.
It is essential for the safe operation of the oven that it
is wiped out regularly. Use warm soapy water,
squeeze the cloth out well and
use to remove any grease or
food from the interior. Pay
particular attention to the door
seal area and also the areas
around the microwave feed
guide situated on the right
hand side of the cavity wall.
The oven should be
unplugged when cleaning.
14. B abies Bottles and
Food Jars
When reheating babies
bottles always remove top
and teal. Liquid at the top
of the bottle will be much
hotter than at the bottom
and must be shaken
thoroughly before checking the temperature. The lid
must also be removed from babies food )ars, the
contents must also be stirred or shaken before the
tempe.'atu.'e is checked.
15. C ontainers
Befo.'e use check that utensil5.‘'containers are suitable
for use in microwave ovens.
16. C are of Your Oven Cavity
Your oven cavity is constructed of zinc coated steei.
painted with an extremely durable coating. After use,
the oven interior should be wiped out to remove any
remaining water in order to reduce the risk of
corrosion to the cavity- and door.
The cavity and door can be damaged by abrasive
cleaners and sharp objects so care must be taken to
avoid damage caused in this way. If the cavity or
door becomes damaged the lining may begin to
co.TOde. Providing the above precautions are taken
regarding the cleaning and care of your oven the life
of the cavity and door may be extended.
However, should any corrosion of the cavity or door
occur \.vilhin a period of 3 years from the date of
purchase and providing the above precautions are
fbliowed the cavity and door will be serviced by your
supplier on a free of charge basis.
5

Parts of Your Oven
Glass Turntable
1. Do not operate the oven without
the Roller Ring and Glass
Turntable in place.
2. Only use the Glass Turntable
specifically designed for this
oven. Do not substitute with any
other Glass Turntable.
3. If Glass Turntable is hot, allow
to cool before cleaning or
placing in water.
4. Do not cook directly on Glass
Turntable. Always place food in
a microwave safe dish. The only
exception to this is when
cooking Jacket Potatoes or
Auto Program Jacket Potatoes.
5. if food or utensil on Glass
Turntable touches oven walls,
causing the tray to stop moving,
the tray wtH automatically rotate
in opposite direction. This is
normal. Open oven door,
reposition the food arxJ restart.
6. The Glass Turntable can rotate
in either direction.
See-through Oven Window External Air Vents Glass Turntable
resumes as soon as the door is closed
arxi Start Pad is pressed. The oven
light will stay on or turn on w'henever
the door is opened.
6

Oven Control Panels
NN-3456
NN-E238Y
NN-E238N
NN-3496
NN-3256
NN-E218N
Panasonic
JO
.Vfv
1
M>n
10
SSC
1
S*e
High
D0<a^
Sm.ia
Cioek
m
M
Stan
Panasonic
10
Ur.
1
Mr*
10
.Sec
r
See
If Plated ..
Meal U
♦ « ■
ee I
4>
Stall
Display
When oven is first plugged in "88:68'’ will
appear in the display window.
Clock Pad
Press the clock pad. Using the minute
and second pads set the clock (12hr
clock). Press clock pad again to stop
colon flashing. (See page 8 to set the
clock.)
Microwave Power Pads
There are 4 different power levels to
select.
Auto Weight Programs
After selecting the program and entering
in the weight of the food the oven will
automatically select the correct cooking
time and power level. (See page 9 for
more details.)
Start Pad
One press allows the oven to begin
functioning. If the door is opened or the
Stop/Cancel pad is pressed once during
the oven operation the Start Pad must be
p.'essed again to restart the oven.
Stop/Cancel Pad
Befo.'e cooking: one press clears your
instructions. During cooking: one
press temporarily stops the cooking
program. Another press cancels all y'our
instructions and the time of day will
reappear in the display window.
Beep Sound
When a pad is touched correctly a beep
will be heard. If a pad is touched and no
beep is heard, the unit has net or canrK>t
accept the instruction. At the end of any
complete program, the oven will beep 5
times.
Auto Weight Defrost Pad
After selecting the correct category of
food and the weight, the oven will
automatically select the power and the
correct time. (See page 9 for more
details.)
Deiay/Stand Pad
This can be used to delay a cooking
program for up to 99 mins 99 sec. or used
to time or for standing (non-cookinc) time.
Door Release Pad
(except NN-3496)
Opening the door during cooking will stop
the cooking program. Cooking continues
as soon as the door is closed emd the
start pad is pressed. The oven light will
turn on and stay on whenever the door is
open. It is qu'rte safe to open the door
during a cooking progsam. TTiere is no
risk of microwave eeposure.
Microwave Power Selection
6 different power levels to choose from by
turning the dial.
Easy Defrost Dial
Turn to select weight for defrost time.
Defrost power on these ovens is not
cyclic. All times given in the Defrost Chart
should be approximately .halved.
Timer Dial
Turn to select length of cooking time. NB.
When food is removed from oven after
cooking is complete, check timer is in
zero position.
Door Release Pad
Opening the door during cooking will stop
the cooking program. Cooking continues
as soon as the door is closed. The oven
light will turn on and stay on whenever the
door is open. It is quite safe to open the
door during a cooking program. There is
no risk of microv/ave exposure.
7

Select Power
7 ^
Turn dial to select power leve^
Set Time
Set cooking time by turning d*a}. ff the door
is already closed cooking time will begin
immediately. For short cooking times always
=lum-t he d i a l to 4 m i ns and t h a n adjust to-
time reouired.
Defrosting using the NN-3256 and NN-E218N
Setting the Clock (NN-3456/NN-E238Y/NN-E238N/NN-3496)
1. Press Clock Pad
Colon in window will start blinking.
2. Press Time Pads
Enter time of day by pressing appnapriate
Time Pads
3. Press Clock Pad
Colon stops blinking.
J Clock i
I_i
eg. 11.25pm
Press ?o T I Press
once . > ■ '- ■ >- -p once
Press j to T Press
twice ! ^ ^ 5 times
'. To reset t:rne cf day, repeat step 1 through to step 3.
2, The clock will kee p thelir!>e.of.dav as tone as the oweris oiug ged in and eieetn aty is SttQpifed.
'3. ThVs la a 'i2 hour clock. <e i?pm s 2:00 riot 14:00. The oven win not fipnchon « s 24 hour e*ocfc ’9 set.
Microwave Cooking
The oven will automatically work on HIGH microwave power If a
cot^irtg ffme is entered without the power level prevlouely being selected.
1. Select Power
Select correct power pad.
2. Set Time
Set cooking time by pressing appropriate Press I to
Time Pads. eg. to set 13 minutes 45 seconds: 4 times . ^
3. Press Start
The cooking program will start and the time
In the display will couatdowa_
Two/Three Stage Cooking: see page i5

Delay/Stand
Delay Start:
This feature allows you to program a Delay Start. It is not possible to delay start an AUTO PROGRAM.
Delay/
Stand
to
I Stc
1
Sec
Desi.'ed
I Cookirg
! P.'og'^arr
<I>
Start
• Set the time you
want to delay.
NB: The maximum time to delay start is 99 minutes, 99 seconds.
Program desired cooking
mode and time.
Press
Stand Time:
This feature allows you to program a Stand Time after cooking is completed and to program the oven as a
minute timer or/guid delay start.
Desired
Vir*
_ ’ Delav/ 1
IQ 1
1
O
Program
^ . Stand ^
j
10
1
1 1
start
_1 1
Sec
__J
Sec
1__
• Program desired cooking • Press. • Set the time you want to stand. • Press
mode and lime
LB/KG CONVERSION:
When using the Auto Weight features, the oven automatically displays the weight In Ib/oz. If you wish
to use the grams to enter your weight In metric, press START pad directly after plugging In the oven
but before setting the clock.
Auto Weight Programs (for Guidelines refer to page 18)
Cl>
1, Select desired program, (See page 18 for
minimum and maximum weights) ^
2. Set Weight
Press the | « \ and the window will display a
weight in grams or ounces. Adjust the weight
using the Up and Down pads. The weight will
change in lOg or loz increments.
e ♦
up
3. Press Start
o
Stan
Auto Weight Defrost (for Guidelines refer to page 16 )
Pwwaonlc
1. Select desired program. One press for
Bread two presses for Meat.
(See page 16 for minimum and
maximum weights.)
Al/TO WEIGHT
OEFUOST
2. Set Weight_
Press the * | and the window will display a
weight in grams or ounces. Adjust the weight using
the Up and Dovm pads. The weight will
change in lOg or loz increments
3. Press Start <T>
NB. Remember to stir or turn the food sta.n
during defrosting.
9

Containers to Use on Microwave
Apart from measuring
ingredients and selecting
the correct cooking power and
time, the container you choose
to microwave your food in is
the most important factor that
decides success or failure.
ALWAYS USE THE CORRECT
SIZED CONTAINER RECOM¬
MENDED IN THE RECIPE.
Although new microwave acces¬
sories are constantly being intro¬
duced, many dishes already in
your kitchen cupboard are ideal
for cooking and reheating by
microwave.
The golden rule is NEVER use
a di^ made of metal or that
has a metal pattern or trim - if
you do so, you might damage
your oven or ruin your dish,
since the metal p^^ns will
lift off during cooking.
Testing Dishes for Suitability
When unsure that a cooking
container is suitable for use in
your microwave, check by the
following test;
1. Fill a microwave safe measur¬
ing jug with 300ml (Mpt) cold
water.
2. Place it on the turntable along¬
side the dish to be tested. If the
dish you are testing is a large
dish, then stand the measuring
jug on top of the empty dish.
3. Heat on HIGH power for
1 minute.
RESULT
If the dish is suitable for micro-
waving, it will remain cool, whilst
the water in the jug will begin to
feel warm, tf the testing dish feels
warm, do rx)f use as ft is obvious¬
ly absorbing microwave energy.
N.B. This test does not apply to
plastic or metal based containers
e.g. Le Creuset® style dishes,
which should not be used as they
are cast iron covered with enamel.
Quick Check Guide to Cooking Utensils
OVEftf GLASS
Everyday glass that is heat resistant e.g. Pyrex®, is ideal.
Do not use delicate glass which may crack due to the
heat from the food. Do not use lead crystal which may
crack or arc.
CHfNA AN D CEMMIC
Everyday glazed china plates, saucers, bowls, mugs
and cups can be used if they are heat resistant.
Porcelain and ceramic are also ideal.
Fine bone china should only be used for reheating for
short periods, otherwise the cfwige in temperature
may crack the dish or craze the finish.
Do not use dishes with a metal rim or pattern.
Do not use jugs or mugs with glued handles, since the
glue can melt in a microwave.
POTTERY, EARTHENWARE. STONEWARE
If completely glazed, these dishes are suitable. Do not
use if partially glazed or unglazed, since they are able
to absorb water which in turn absorbs microwave
energy, making the container very hot and slows down
the cooking of food.
FOIL/METAL CONTAINERS
NEVER ATTEMPT TO COOK IN FOIL OR METAL contai¬
ners - the microwaves cannot pass through and the food
will not heat evenly - this may also damage your oven.
Small items in shallow foil containers can be RE¬
HEATED in the microwave, but take care that contai¬
ners do not touch the oven walls or door.
Use wooden kebab sticks instead of metal skewers.
DO NOT RE-USE FOIL CONTAINERS AS THEY MAY
BECOME DENTED OR DAMAGED AND ARCING
MAY OCCUR.
10

TIN FOIL
Small amounts of smooth tin foil can be used to
SHIELD joints of meat during defrosting and
cooking, as the microwaves cannot pass
through the foil, this prevents the parts shielded
from overcooking or overdefrosting. Take care
that the foil does not touch the sides or roof of
the oven, as this may cause arcing and damage
your oven.
ROASTING BAGS
Roasting bags are useful when slit up one side
to tent a joint for roasting by power and time. Do
not use the metal twists supplied.
PAPER
Plain white absorbent kitchen paper (kitchen
towel) can be used for covering blind pastry
cases and for covering bacon to prevent
splattering BUT FOR SHORT COOKING TIMES
ONLY. NEVER RE-USE A PIECE OF KITCHEN
TOWEL. ALWAYS USE A FRESH PIECE OF
PAPER FOR EACH DISH.
Avoid kitchen paper containing manmade fibres.
If you are using branded re-cycled kitchen
towel, check first that it is recommended for
microwave use.
Do not use waxed or plastic coated cups or
plates as the finish may melt in the oven.
Greaseproof paper can be used to line the base
of dishes and to cover fatty foods e.g. bacon
rashers to stop them splattering.
White paper plates can be used for SHORT RE¬
HEATING TIMES. .
CUNQ FILM
Microwave cling film can be used for covering
food that is reheated by microwave. It is also
useful for covering food to be cooked, but care
should be taken to avoid the film being in direct
contact with the food.
WICKER. WOOD, STRAW BASKETS
Do not use these items in your microwave. With
continued use and with prolonged exposure they
will crack and could ignite. Do not use wooden
dishes in your microwave.
PLASTIC
There are many plastic containa's designed for
microwave use.
Only use Tupperware® containers if they are
designed for microwave use.
Do not use Melamine - although it is heat
resistant it absorbs microwave energy and
scorches.
Even if a container is microwave safe, do not use
for cooking foods high in sugar or fat. Foods that
require long cooking times e.g. brown rice,
should not be cooked in plastic.
Never cook in cream or margarine cartons or
yoghurt pots, as these will melt with the heat from
the food.
Many plastics that are not heatproof for cooking
are suitable for defrosting.
11

Microwaving Principles
Microwave energy has been
used in this country to cook and
heat since early experirnents
with RADAR. Microwaves them¬
selves are in fact present in the
atmosphere all the time - both
naturally and from manmade
sources.
Manmade microwaves include
radar, radio and television
waves, telecommunications links
and car phones, If you follow our
basic recommendations and
keep your oven clean, then it will
be completely safe.
Many years ago it was discover¬
ed that one of the effects of
microwaves is to make water
molecules VIBRATE very quickly.
Because all foods contain water
to a greater or lesser extent, they
can quickly be heated by the
friction caused by this vibration.
Water Molecule Absorption
Vibratiori
Your microwave oven converts
electricity into microwaves in the
magnetron,
Turntable
Waveguide
- Magnetron
S-
Oven Cavity
Microwaves are REFLECTED off
metal, so they bounce off the
walls and the metal door screen,
back onto the food.
They contain no heat themselves
and pass through the cooking
container i.e. are transmitted, to
be ABSORBED by the water
molecules, as well as sugar and
fat particles in the food.
Microwaves can only penetrate
to a depth of 1M-2 inches (4-5
cm) and as heat spreads through
the food by conduction, just as
in a traditional oven, the food
cooks from the outside inwards.
When a microwave oven is
switched off. ttte food will con¬
tinue to cook by this conduction
- NOT BY MICROWAVE
ENERGY. Hence STANDING
TIME is very Important in micro-
waving, particularly for dense
foods i.e meat, cakes and
reheated meals.
The dish used to cook or reheat
the food will get warm during
cooking, as the heat conducts
from the food. Even lr> rnjcro-
waving, oven glos'es are
required!
MICROWAVES CANNOT PASS
THROUGH METAL AND THERE¬
FORE METAL COOKtNG UTEN¬
SILS CAN NEVER BE USED
FOR COOKING ON
MICROWAVE ONLY.
Foods Not Suitable
for Cooking by
Microwave
Yorkshire Puddings. Souffles.
Double Crust Pastry Pies.
Because these foods rely on dry
external heat to cook correctly,
do r>ot attempt to cook by
microwave.
Foods that require deep fat
frying cannot cooked ^ther,
however shallow fried foods can
be cooked ir’ a browning dish,
available from major department
stores. Always follow manufac¬
turers’ instructions carefully
when preheating the dish
(remember your oven is
SOOWatts (lEC) on HIGH power).
Boiled Eggs
Do rK?t boft gQos In TOUT
eggs boiled in
Cleaning
The interior should be kept clean
at all times. Stubbcnn spots can
be removed with a branded
microwave spray on a soft cloth,
The door surround is a plastic
based substance and is best
kept clean with soapy water. The
door sea! area must be kept
clean at all times to ensure
microwaves are not attracted to
this area and to avoid damage to
the door screen film. The
turntable can be cleaned with
hot soapy water. Wash the roller
ring regularly in soapy water.
12

COVERING
Cover foods with microwave cling
film or a self-fitting lid. Cover fish,
vegetables, casseroles, soups.
Do not cover cakes, sauces,
jacket potatoes, pastry Items.
STARTING TEMPERATURE
The colder the food, the longer it
takes to heat up. Food from a
fridge takes longer to reheat
than food at room temperature.
SPACING
Foods cook more quickly and
evenly if spaced apart. NEVER
pile foods on top of each other.
TURNING AND STIRRING
Some foods require stirring
during cooking. Meat and
poultry should be turned after
half the cooking time.
SHAPE
Even shapes cook evenly. Food
cooks better by microwave when
In a round container rather than
square.
ARRANGING
Individual foods e.g. chicken
portions or chops, should be
placed on a dish so that the
thicker parts are to the outside.
CLEANING
As microwaves work on food
particles, keep your oven clean at
ail times. Stubborn spots of food
can be removed by using a
branded microwave spray
cleaner, sprayed onto a soft
cloth, always wipe the oven dry
after cleaning.
UQUIDS
All liquids must be stirred before
and during heating. Water espe¬
cially must be stirred before and
during heating, to avoid eruption.
Do not heat liquids that have
previously been boiled.
DO NOT OVERHEAT,
CHECKING FOOD
It is essential that food is checked
during and after a recommended
cooking time, even if an AUTO
PROGRAM has been used (just
as you would check food cooked
in a conventional oven). Return
the food to the oven for further
cooking if necessary.
13

General Guidelines
DISH SIZE
Follow the dish sizes given in the
recipes, as these affect the cook¬
ing and reheating times. A quan¬
tity of food spread in a bigger
dish cooks suid reheats more
quickly.
QUANTITY
Small quantities cook faster than
large quantities, also small meals
will reheat more quickly than
large portions.
DENSITY
Porous airy foods heat more
quickly than dense heavy foods.
foods e.g' rheat, jacket
pwatoes ^d cakes, require a~
. STANDING TIME (inside or
Qu£Mde of the oven) after cook-
^^.iO'Airdw the heat to
dpnduct through^the centre
-jtetsqmpfete ^acooningr
«EAT JOINTS-Sflna
t5 mins, wrapped In tin foil.
JACKET POTATOES - Stand
Sthfns.'wrSpped Iri tin foil.
LIGHT CAKES > Stand 5 mins.
- IMtefy r%mo Vf i T g from dish.
NtCH DENSE CAKES - Stand
15-20 mins.
rtSH - Stand 2-5 mins.
STANDING TIME
If food Is rK)t cooked after
STANDING TIME, return to oven
and cook for additional time.
EGO DISHES • Stand 2-3 mins. \
PRECOOKED CONVENIENCE
FOODS - Stand for 5 mins.
PLATED MEALS'Stand for
2-5 mins.
VEGETABLES - Boiled
potatoes benefit from starKltng |
1-2 mins., however most other {
types Of vegetables can be I
served immediately.
DEFROSTING ' It is essential |
to crilow starKifng tirrw to com¬
plete the process. This can vary
from 5 mins. e.g. r asp ber r ie s ,
to up to 1 hour for a JtMnt of
meat.
PIERCING
The skin or membrane on some
foods will cause steam to build
up during cooking. These foods
must be pierced or a strip of skin
should be peeled off before
cooking to allow the steam to
escape. Eggs, potatoes, apples,
sausages etc, will all need to be
pierced before cooking. DO NOT
ATTEMPT TO BOIL EGGS IN
THEIR SHELLS.
MOISTURE CONTENT
Many fresh foods e.g. veget¬
ables and fruit, vary in their
moisture content throughout the
season. Jacket potatoes cu^e a
particular example of this. For
this reason cooking times may
have to be adjusted throughout
the year. Dry ingredients e.g.
rice, pasta, can dry out further
during storage and cooking
times may differ from ingredients
freshly purchased.
CLING FILM
Cling film helps keep the food
moist and the trappy steam
assists in speeding up cooking
times. Howev'er it should be
pierced before cooking, to allow
excess steam to escape. Always
take care when removing cling
film from a dish as the buikj-up
of steam will be very hot.
Always purchase c!tr>g film that
states on the packet “suitable for
microwave cooking" and use as
a covering only Do not lrr>e
dishes with clirvg film.
14

Selecting Micro Power Levels
(Except NN-3256 / NN-E218N)
MICRO
POWER
There are 4 different Micro
Power Levels available on your
oven - one of them being Cyclic
Defrost.
POWER
LEVEL
WATTAGE
(lEC 705)
USE
High
800 Reheating meals and sauces, cooking fish, vegetables,
sauces, preserves.
Medium
560 Roasting, egg sauces, heating milk, cooking sponge cakes.
Simmer
240 Cooking stews and casseroles, rice puddings,
rich fruit cakes, egg custards.
Defrost
270 Defrosting frozen foods,
i
Multi-Stage Cooking
For some recipes e.g. soups and casseroles, it is necessary to use
different pov;er levels. Your oven has a 3 stage memory, i.e. you
can program up to 3 different instructions and the oven will switch
automatically from power to power after the appropriate time has
-elapsed e.g. Christmas Pudding:
3tageT HIGH pow^for4 mins.
-Stsrge2 STAND for 5 mins.
3 HIGH power for 2 mins and then press start.
15

Defrosting Guidelines
The biggest problem when
defrosting food in a microwave
is to get the inside defrosted
before the outside starts to cook.
For this reason Panasonic have
made the defrosting on your
oven CYCLIC DEFROST, which
means you just press the
DEFROST pad and set the
required time. The oven then
divides this time into 8 stages.
These stages alternate behween
defrosting (total of 4) and
standing (total of 4).
During the standing stages there
is no microwave power in the
oven, although the light will
remain on and the turntable will
turn. The automatic stand times
ensure a more even defrost and
for small items the usual stand
time can be eliminated.
It Is essential that food is
checked during DEFROSTING
even on Auto Defrost as
different foods vary In their
defrosting speed.
After defrosting, joints of meat
and whole chickens should
STAND for a minimum of 1 hour
before cooking.
Food to be defrosted should be
in a suitable microwave safe
container and placed uncovered
on the glass turntable
Separate chops and small items
e.g. bread slices where possible.
Chickens and joints of meat will
require shielding during
defrosting,
Break up small items e.g.
minced meat, frequently during
defrosting.
Auto Weight Defrost |
This feature allows you to defrost
joints of meat and bread all
automatically once you have
entered in the weight of the food.
The weight can be entered in lbs
and ozs or grams. Refer to the
operating instructions on page 9
to convert the machine into
imperial or metric weights.
The oven will select the correct
defrosting time for the foods. It
is not necessary for foods to be
covered during defrosting and
they should be placed on a
microwave rack or in a suitable
dish.
During the defrosting process the
oven will bleep to remind you to
check the food i.e. turn, shield or
break the food apart.
There are two categories: Bread
and Meat.
Bread
The Bread Program is suitable for
defrosting small items eg. rolls,
buns and slices of bread which
are required for immediate use.
Small items may feel warm
immediately after defrosting.
Loaves can also be defrosted on
this program but these will
require standing time to allow the
centre to thaw out. Standing time
can be shortened if slices are
separated and buns and loaves
cut in half. Items should be
turned halfway during defrosting.
THIS PROGRAM IS NOT
SUTABLE FOR CREAM CAKES
OR DESSERTS eg. cheesecake.
Meat
Meat joints will require shielding
during defrosting especi^ly if it is
a particularly fatty piece. This is
to prevent over de^sting on the
outside edges. Smooth tin foil
secured with cocktail sticks
should be used. DO NOT ALLOW
THE FOIL TO TOUCH THE
WALLS OF THE OVEN. Back fat
of joints, legs, wir>gs and breast
bones need shielding. Standing
time of at least 1 hour should be
allowed (rolled joints may require
longer) before cooking to ensure
the centre is fully defrosted.
THIS PROGRAM IS NOT
SUITABLE FOR SAUSAGES but
these can be defrosted manually.
Chops should be arranged in a
single layer whenever possible
and turned frequently.
— wmm
Msx
Bread 30g 500g
(loz)
(1!b 2oz)
Meat lOOg 1 .6kg
(4oz)
(3lb8oz)
16

Select Defrost Power then the approximate time given below.
The times given below are a guideline only. For models NN-3256 / NN-E218N the times should be
approximately halved because Defrost is not cyclic. Always check the progress of the food by opening the
oven door and then re-starting. For larger quantities adjust times accordingly. Food should not be covered
during defrosting.
Food Qty Weight
Time to
Select (approx)
*^BACON
Rashers
B
525g
9 mins.
Steaks 2 225g
7 mins.
BEEFBURGERS
465g
7 mins.
BEEF
'Mince
"Stewing Steak,
cubed
#Joints
BREAD
"Large Loaf, sliced
Small Loaf
CAKES
Cheesecake
Scones
CASSEROLE
CHEESE
CHICKEN
#Drumsticks
#Whole
8 mins.
5 mins.
30 secs.
2 mins.
3 mins-
2 mins-
5 mins.
3*4 mins.
3 mins-
40*50 mirs.
3 mtns-
•Portions
4
Ikg 23 mins.
•Poussin 1
380g
10 mins.
CREAM
Sticks
#DUCK, Whole
FISH
#'Fil!etS
"Prawns
"Steaks
#Whole
*FRUiT, Soft
LAMB
4-5 .’Tii-'is.
8 mins, per 450g
12 mins.
7 mins.
10 mins.
9 mins.
5-6 mins.
Qty Weight
MARGARINE
APPLE PIES
6 150g 1 min. 30 secs.
1 PLATED MEALS - HOMEMADE
Medium size
1
370g
5 mins.
’OFFAL
275g
6 mins.
’ORANGE JUICE-
CONCENTRATED
190ml
4 mins.
1 PASTRY 1
Filo
300g 2 mins.
Puff 4 mins.
Shortcrust
370g 4 mins.
1 PIES 1
Cooked Fruit | 1 375g
10 mins.
1 Cooked Meat 1 520g
15 mins.
1 PORK i
"Diced
- 450g 12 mins.
Joints
- 450g
"Chops 4
450g 10-12 mins.
QUICHE
Slice
65g 3-4 mins.
Whole
n
360g 11 mins.
’SAUSAGES 6 450g
^2 mins.
’SAUSAGEMEAT 454g
11 mins.
-SOUP
litre
Use
HIGH
Power
10 mins.
•TURKEY
CONVENIENCE FOODS
Lasagne
Pizza
'•Sausage roil
(cooked)
4-5 mins.
Use LOW
power
NOTES
’ stir or separate these foods as soon as
possible during defrosting.
# Shield these foods on extreme edges and
ends.
17

Auto Weight Programs
1. Press pad.
2. Enter in the weight of the food
(not including the plate)
3. Press start.
This program is designed for-
reheating ONE chilled plated
meal (NOT FROZEN) from frkige
temperature or a chilled ready
made convenience meal.
When reheating plated meals it
(s important to arrange the food
around the edges of the plate,
placing more delicate items
e.g. fish, towards the centre.
Solid foods such as potatoes,
should be well spread out and
sliced meat must always be
covered with a sauce or gravy.
ALWAYS cover meals wrth either
pierced cling film, an upturned
plate or casserole lid.
Thoroughly wash the potatoes
and prick the skins several
times. Spread around the edge
of the turntable When the cook¬
ing time is completed remove
the potatoes from the oven and
wrap in tin foil to retain the heat.
Allow to star>d for 5 mins. The
ideal size of potato is 175g-225a
(6-802).
1. Press pad.
2. Enter in the total weight of
potatoes.
3. Press start.
1. Press pad.
2. Enter in the weight of the
vegetables.
3. Press start.
Place frozen vegetables in a
microwave safe contamer. Add
30ml (2tbsp) of water, cover with
pierced microwave cling film or
use a dish with a lid, and place
directly onto the turntable.
MINIMUM/MAXIMUM WEIGHTS
When cooking by Auto Programs, food must be within the weight
ranges shown below
- - j - —
Mawmuiti w^jht
1. Plated Meal j 200g (8oz)
700g (lib 9oz)
2. Jacket Potatoes j 10Og (4oz)
1200g (2lb lOoz)
3. Frozen Vegetables | 10Og (4oz)
600g(1fb5oz)
18