Panasonic NN-CS596S Operating instructions

®
Convection Combi Steam Oven
Operating Instructions and Cookbook
NN-CS596S

1
Welcome to Panasonic Microwave Cooking
This microwave oven has the benefit of the Inverter System Inside. This unique
technology has been in use with microwave ovens in Japan for many years,
improving the cooking performance of the oven. It also means that you benefit
from having more space inside your oven, without taking up more room on your
work surface. Panasonic has introduced the UK’s first cooking appliance providing
complete versatility with four cooking technologies in one single oven including
combi steam technology.
We hope you enjoy using your new oven but should you require any further help
or explanation, phone our COOKERY ADVICE LINE 01344 862108
or write to the address below.
The Microwave Test & Development Kitchen
Panasonic Consumer Electronics U.K.
Willoughby Road
Bracknell
Berks
RG12 8FP
Or e-mail [email protected]
When writing, be sure to state your model number and daytime telephone number.
CONTENTS
Safety Information 2
Caution 3
Unpacking your oven 3
Placement of your Oven 3
Before using your Oven 4
Care and Cleaning 5
Maintenance of your Oven 6
Parts of your Oven 7-8
Important Information 9-11
Microwaving Principles 12-13
General Guidelines 14-16
Containers to use 17-19
Control Panel 20
Operating Instructions 21-59
• Demonstration Mode 21
• Child Lock 21
• Setting the Clock 22
• Microwaving/defrosting 22-29
• Steam and Microwave 30-31
• Using the Delay/Stand Feature 32
• Grilling 33-34
• Convection cooking 35-38
• TURBO-BAKE cooking 39-40
• Combination Cooking 41-52
Auto Weight Programs 53-59
Cooking and Reheating
Guidelines 60
Reheating Charts 62-64
Cooking Charts 65-78
Adapting Recipes 79
RECIPES
Soups and Starters 79-88
Fish 89-101
Meat and Poultry 102-133
Vegetables/Vegetarian 135-156
Pasta, Rice & Beans 157-164
Cheese and Egg Dishes 165-173
Sauces and Preserves 175-191
Pastry 192-203
Desserts and Baking 205-239
Bread 239-247
Index 248-250
Questions and Answers 251
Technical Specification 252
Thank you for purchasing a Panasonic
Microwave Oven.
Even if this is not your first microwave oven, do
please read the opening chapters of this
cookbook to achieve perfect results every time.

2
Important safety instructions
Please read carefully and keep for future reference.
This appliance is supplied 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 BSI to BS1362. Check for the ASTA
mark or the BSI mark on the body of 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 CUT 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 opposite. If in any doubt,
please consult a qualified electrician (For U.K.
Models only).
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE
EARTHED.
If the fuse cover is detachable, never use
the plug with the cover
omitted. If a replacement fuse
cover is required, ensure it is
the same colour as that
visible on the pin face of the
plug.
A replacement 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.
IMPORTANT: The wires in this mains lead are
coloured in accordance with the following code:
Green-and-yellow: Earth, Blue: Neutral, Brown:
Live.
As the colours of the wire in the mains lead of
this appliance may not correspond with the
coloured markings identifying the terminals in
your plug, proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured GREEN-AND-
YELLOW must be connected to the terminal in
the plug which is marked with the letter E or by
the Earth symbol or coloured GREEN or
GREEN-AND-YELLOW.
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be
connected to the terminal in the plug which is
marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be
connected to the terminal in the plug which is
marked with the letter L or coloured RED.
When this oven is installed it should be easy to
isolate the appliance from the electricity supply
by pulling out the plug or operating a circuit
breaker.
Do not immerse cord, plug or oven in water.
Keep cord away from heated surfaces. Do not
let cord hang over the edge of table or work
top. Do not plug your oven in via an extension
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 during use.
Do not allow the cord to be in contact with the
back of the appliance or cabinet surface.
Voltage & Power
The voltage used must be the same as
specified on this microwave oven. Using a
higher voltage than that which is specified is
dangerous and may result in a fire or other
type of accident causing damage.

1. Hot Surfaces
Exterior oven surfaces, including air vents
on the cabinet and the oven door will get
hot during CONVECTION, GRILL or
COMBINATION involving CONVECTION,
GRILL or STEAM functions. To prevent
burns, take care when opening or closing
the door and when inserting or removing
food and accessories. The oven
has heaters situated in the
top and rear of the oven.
During and after using either
the CONVECTION, GRILL or
COMBINATION involving
CONVECTION, GRILL or
STEAM functions, all inside surfaces of
the oven will be very hot during and after
using either the CONVECTION, GRILL or
COMBINATION functions. To prevent
burns, care should be taken to avoid
touching the inside surfaces of the oven
or hot water inside the steam trough.
2. Children should be kept
away from the oven at
all times and should
only be allowed to
operate the oven
under adult supervision due to tempera-
tures generated.
3. During and after cooking with steam
function, do not open the oven door when
your face is very close to the oven. Care
must be taken when opening the door as
steam may cause injury.
4. To prevent burns, take care of hot
surfaces which may exist from the
cooking process or from hot water in the
trough area.
CAUTION!: Steam may billow out when
you open the door. If there is steam in
the oven, do not reach in with your
bare hands! Risk of burns! Use oven
gloves.
Caution: Hot surfaces
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 if unit is damaged.
2. Guarantee
Your receipt is your guarantee, please keep safely.
3. Cord
If the supply cord of this appliance is damaged, it must be
replaced by the manufacturer or it’s service agent or a similarly
qualified person in order to avoid a hazard.
N.B. The appliance should be inspected for damage to the door seals and door seal areas. If
these areas are damaged the appliance should not be operated until it has been repaired by a
service technician trained by the dealer.
Unpacking your oven
This oven is intended for counter-top household use only. It is not
intended for built-in use or for use inside a cupboard.
1. Oven must be placed on a flat, stable surface 850mm above floor
level. For proper operation, the oven must have sufficient air flow, i.e.
5cm/2" at one side, the other being open; 15cm/6" clear over the top;
10cm/4" at the rear.
2. Do not place the microwave oven on a shelf 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 top of the oven over the vents. If
air vents are blocked during operation, the oven may overheat. If
the oven overheats, 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.
Placement of your oven
2“ 4“
6“
open
3

4
1. Exterior oven surfaces, including air vents on the cabinet and the oven door will get hot during
CONVECTION, GRILLING, COMBINATION involving CONVECTION, GRILL or STEAM
functions. To prevent burns, take care when opening or closing the door and when inserting or
removing food and accessories.
2. The oven has three grill heaters situated in the top of the oven and a convection heater
situated in the back of the oven. During and after using either the CONVECTION, GRILL or
COMBINATION involving CONVECTION, GRILL or STEAM functions, all inside surfaces of
the oven will be very hot. To prevent burns, care should be taken to avoid touching any of the
inside surfaces of the oven or hot water in the steam trough.
3. The accessible parts may become hot when the grill is in use.
4. Do not use the water tank if it is cracked or broken, as leaking water could result in electrical
failure and danger of electric shock. If the water tank becomes damaged, please contact your
dealer.
5. In case of electronic failure, the oven can only be turned off at the wall socket.
6. Only allow children to use the oven without supervision when adequate instructions have been
given so that the child is able to use the oven in a safe way and understands the hazards of
improper use, including escaping steam. To prevent burns, ensure that children do not touch
either the hot inner surfaces or the hot outer casing after operation of the oven.
7. This appliance is not attended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical,
sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge unless they have been
given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for
their safety. Young children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the
appliance.
8. Storage 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 only be turned off at wall socket.
9. Before Use
Before using CONVECTION, COMBINATION or GRILL function for the first time operate the
oven without food and accessories on CONVECTION 250°C for 5 mins. This will allow the oil
that is used for rust protection to be burned off. This is the only time that the oven is operated
empty (except preheating on CONVECTION or COMBINATION modes which does not include
Microwave).
Before using your oven
CAUTION: All inside surfaces of the oven will be hot.
NEVER OPERATE THE OVEN WITHOUT FOOD INSIDE ON MICROWAVE OR
COMBINATION MODE INVOLVING MICROWAVE.
Operation when empty will damage the appliance.
!
WARNING: This appliance produces hot steam.

5
8. If steam accumulates inside or around the outside of the oven door, wipe with a soft cloth.
This may occur when the microwave oven is operated under high humidity conditions and in
no way indicates a malfunction of the unit or microwave leakage.
9. The oven cavity floor should be cleaned regularly. Simply wipe the bottom surface of the
oven with mild detergent and hot water then dry with a clean cloth. Cooking vapours collect
during repeated use but in no way affect the bottom surface.
10.For the oven cleaning assistant and system cleaning programs, refer to page 59.
11. When GRILLING or cooking by COMBINATION or CONVECTION some foods may splatter
grease onto the oven walls. If the oven is not cleaned to eliminate this grease, it can
accumulate and cause the oven to ‘SMOKE’ during use. These marks will be more difficult to
clean later. There is no need to clean the catalytic lining at the back of the oven.
12.Ensure all accessories are kept scrupulously clean, especially when using microwave or
combination programs.
13. A steam cleaner is not to be used for cleaning.
14. Do not use harsh abrasive cleaners or sharp metal scrapers to clean the oven door glass
since they can scratch the surface, which may result in shattering of the glass.
1. Switch the oven off before cleaning and unplug at socket if possible.
2. Keep the inside of the oven, door seals and door seal areas clean.When food splatters or
spilled liquids adhere to oven walls, door seals and door seal areas wipe off with a damp
cloth. Mild detergent may be used if they get very dirty. The use of harsh detergent or
abrasives is not recommended.
3. The back of the oven has a self-clean catalytic lining. It is therefore not necessary to clean
this area.
4. After using CONVECTION, GRILL or COMBINATION cooking the walls of the oven should
be cleaned with a soft cloth squeezed in soapy water. Particular care should be taken to keep
the window area clean particularly after cooking by CONVECTION, GRILL or COMBINATION.
Stubborn spots inside the oven can be removed by using a small amount of branded
conventional oven-cleaner sprayed onto a soft damp cloth. Wipe onto problem spots, leave for
recommended time and then wipe off. DO NOT SPRAY DIRECTLY INSIDE THE OVEN.
5. After cooking involving steam function, check and wipe away any excess water which may
have condensed within the oven cavity. Empty drip tray (refer to page 31).
6. The outside oven surface should be cleaned with a damp cloth. To prevent damage to the
operating parts inside the oven, water should not be allowed to seep into the ventilation
openings.
7. If the Control Panel becomes dirty, clean with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harsh detergents
or abrasives on Control Panel. When cleaning the Control Panel, leave the oven door open to
prevent the oven from accidentally turning on. After cleaning touch STOP/CANCEL Pad to
clear display window.
It is essential for the safe operation of the oven that it is kept clean, and wiped
out after each use. Failure to maintain the oven in a clean condition could lead
to deterioration of a surface that could adversely affect the life of the appliance
and possibly result in a hazardous situation.
Care & Cleaning of your Microwave Oven - IMPORTANT

6
1. Service
WHEN YOUR OVEN REQUIRES A SERVICE call your local
Panasonic engineer (Customer Care Centre on 08705 357357 can
recommend an engineer). It is hazardous for anyone other than a
competent person to carry out any service or repair operation which
involves the removal of a cover which gives protection against
exposure to microwave energy.
2. Door Seals
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 damp cloth.
N.B. The appliance should be inspected for damage to the door seals and door seal areas. If
these areas are damaged the appliance should not be operated until it has been repaired by
a service technician trained by the manufacturer.
3. Water tank
Do not use the water tank if it is cracked or broken, as leaking water
could result in electrical failure and danger of electric shock. If the water
tank becomes damaged, please contact your dealer.
4. Oven Light
The oven lamp must be replaced by a service technician trained by the
dealer. DO NOT attempt to remove the outer casing from the oven.
5. Selected Spares and Accessories
These may be ordered direct; on line at www.panasonic.co.uk or by telephoning the
Customer Care Centre 08705 357357. Most major credit and debit cards are accepted.
Ensure you quote the correct model number.
6. Operating the circuit breaker
If the oven is not operating correctly, please check the position of the
breaker switch. If the switch is at the ‘O’ position, please position it to the
‘I’ position. If the switch does not return to the ‘I’ position, please contact
your dealer.
7. Testing the circuit breaker
To ensure that the breaker is in working order, please test it regularly by pressing the ‘TEST’
key. Testing it once a month is recommended.
Press the ‘TEST’ key when the oven is switched on. If the switch does not go back to ‘O’,
please contact your dealer.
Maintenance of your oven

7
1. Do not cook directly on oven cavity floor. Always place food in a microwave safe dish.
2. The metal accessories provided must ONLY be used as directed for GRILLING,
CONVECTION and COMBINATION cooking. Never use metal accessories when cooking
in microwave only mode. Do not use if operating the oven with less than 200 g (7 oz) of
food on a manual Combination program. Use the Enamel Shelf on CONVECTION and
GRILL mode only. The maximum weight that can be used on the enamel shelf is 4 kg (8 lb
14 oz). FAILURE TO USE ACCESSORIES CORRECTLY COULD DAMAGE YOUR OVEN.
3. Arcing may occur if the incorrect weight of food is used, a metal container has been used
incorrectly, or the accessories have been damaged. If this occurs, stop the machine
immediately. You can continue to cook by GRILL OR CONVECTION ONLY.
4. Always refer to instructions for correct accessories to use on all programs.
Pyrex®Dish
1. The Pyrex® dish can be used directly on the ceramic plate to cook in MICROWAVE mode
only. Do not place food directly on the ceramic plate on the oven cavity floor.
2. The Pyrex® dish is used together with the plastic trivet for STEAM mode.
3. The Pyrex® dish can be used directly on the wire shelf (in either of the shelf positions) for
cooking in GRILL, CONVECTION or COMBINATION modes.
4. If the Pyrex® dish is hot, let it cool before cleaning or placing in cold water, as this could crack
or shatter the dish.
Plastic Trivet
1. The plastic trivet is placed inside the Pyrex® dish to cook on STEAM mode. Food can be
placed directly on the plastic trivet.
2. The plastic trivet can be used for defrosting bread.
3. Do not use the plastic trivet for GRILL, CONVECTION or COMBINATION modes.
Anti Spark Ring
1. Place the anti spark ring on top of the wire shelf, then place any metal container. Your metal
containers can then be used in COMBINATION mode without arcing.
2. The anti-spark ring should not be used in CONVECTION or COMBINATION modes above
250˚C.
Wire Shelf
1. The wire shelf can be used in the upper shelf position for GRILLING foods. It can be used in
the upper or lower shelf positions for CONVECTION or COMBINATION cooking.
2. Do not use any metal container directly on the Wire Shelf in COMBINATION with
MICROWAVE. (Refer to paragraph about anti-spark ring).
3. Do not use the Wire Shelf in MICROWAVE mode only.
Enamel Shelf
1. The Enamel Shelf is for cooking on CONVECTION or GRILL mode. Do not use on
MICROWAVE or COMBINATION modes.
2. For 2 level CONVECTION cooking, the Enamel Shelf can be used as the lower level and the
wire shelf can be used as the upper level.
Drip Tray
1. Before using the oven, place the drip tray in position. Holding with both hands, click into
position on the oven legs. To remove the drip tray refer to page 31.
2. The purpose of the drip tray is to collect excess water during STEAM mode. It should be
emptied after each STEAM operation.
Parts of Your Oven

8
Parts of Your Oven
See-through Oven Window External Air Vents
Door Hinge.
Ensure care is
taken when
closing the door
to prevent injury
caused by
trapping fingers.
Water tank
Pull Down Door
Pull the door handle
downwards to open.
Opening the door during
cooking will stop the
cooking process without
cancelling the program.
Cooking resumes as soon
as the door is closed and
Start pad is pressed. The
oven light will turn on and
stay on whenever the
door is opened.
Grill Elements
Bottom microwave
feeding
Shelf positions
Enamel shelf
Use on CONVECTION, GRILL or
TURBO BAKE (Convection &
Grill) mode only. Do not use in
MICROWAVE only or
COMBINATION cooking modes.
Pyrex® Dish
Plastic Trivet for Pyrex®
Dish. Used for steam
cooking only
Anti-spark ring Wire Shelf
Use on CONVECTION,
GRILL or TURBO BAKE
(Convection & Grill) and
COMBINATION modes only.
Do not use in MICROWAVE
only mode.
Control Panel
Ceramic cover
Drip tray
Ceramic plate
Door safety lock
system. To prevent
injury, do not insert
finger, knife, spoon or
other object into the
latch hole.

9
Safety
If smoke or a fire occurs in the oven, press Stop/Cancel pad and leave the door closed in order to
stifle any flames.
Disconnect the power cord, or shut off power at the fuse or the circuit breaker panel.
Short Cooking Times
As microwave cooking times are much shorter than other cooking methods it is essential that
recommended cooking times are not exceeded without first checking the food.
Cooking times given in the cook book are approximate. Factors that may affect cooking times are:
preferred degree of cooking, starting temperature, altitude, 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, nothing can be done. Always start
with minimum cooking times.
Important.
If the recommended cooking times are exceeded the food will be spoiled and in extreme
circumstances could catch fire and possibly damage the interior of the
oven.
1. Small Quantities of Food.
Take care when heating small quantities of food as these can easily
burn, dry out or catch fire if cooked too long. Always set short cooking
times and check the food frequently.
NEVER OPERATE THE OVEN WITHOUT FOOD INSIDE ON
MICROWAVE OR COMBINATION MODE INVOLVING
MICROWAVE.
2. Foods Low in Moisture.
Take care when heating foods low in moisture, e.g. bread items,
chocolate, popcorn, biscuits and pastries. These can easily burn,
dry out or catch on fire if cooked too long.
3. Christmas Pudding.
Christmas puddings and other foods high in fats or sugar, e.g. jam,
mince pies, must not be over heated. These foods must never be
left unattended as with over cooking these foods can ignite.
4. Eggs.
Eggs in their shell and whole hard-boiled eggs should not be heated
in microwave ovens since they may explode even after microwave
heating has ended.
5. Foods with Skins.
Potatoes, apples, egg yolk, whole vegetables and sausages are
examples of food with non porous skins. These must be pierced
using a fork before cooking to prevent bursting.
Important Information – Read Carefully

10
6. Liquids.
Liquids and other foods must not be heated in sealed containers since they are liable to
explode. When heating liquids, eg soup, sauces and beverages in your microwave oven,
overheating the liquid beyond boiling point can occur without evidence of bubbling.
This could result in a sudden boil over of the hot liquid. To prevent this possibility the following
steps should be taken:
a) Avoid using straight-sided containers with narrow necks.
b) Do not overheat.
c) 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 for a short time, stirring again before carefully
removing the container.
e) Microwave heating of beverages can result in delayed eruptive boiling, therefore care
should be taken when handling 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 pressure might 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 level. Do not leave a conventional meat
thermometer in the oven when microwaving.
10. Paper, Plastic.
When heating food in plastic or paper containers, keep an eye on
the oven due to the possibility of ignition. Do not use wire twist-ties
with roasting bags as arcing will occur.
Do not use re-cycled paper products, e.g. Kitchen roll unless they say
they are specifically designed for use in 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”, i.e.
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, e.g. lasagne, shepherds 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 followed always check the food is
piping hot before serving and if in doubt return your food to the oven for further heating.

11
18. Arcing
Arcing may occur if a metal container has been used incorrectly, if the incorrect weight of
food is used, or if the accessories have been damaged. Arcing is when blue flashes of light
are seen in the microwave oven. If this occurs, stop the machine immediately. If the oven is
left unattended and this continues it can damage the machine.
You can continue to cook by GRILL OR CONVECTION ONLY.
19. Maximum weight on turntable/enamel shelf
The maximum weight that can be placed on the wire shelf or enamel shelf is 4 kg (8 lb 14
oz) (this includes total weight of food and dish).
12. Standing Time.
Standing time refers to the period at the end of cooking or
reheating when food is left before being eaten, i.e. it is a rest time
which allows the heat in the food to continue to conduct to the
centre, thus eliminating cold spots.
13. Keeping 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. The oven should be unplugged
when cleaning. The catalytic lining at the back does not need to
be cleaned.
14. Grilling.
The oven will only operate on the GRILL function with the door
closed.
15. Fan Motor Operation.
After using the microwave oven, the fan motor may operate to cool the electric components.
This is normal and you can take out food even though the fan motor operates. You can
continue using the oven during this time.
16. Containers.
Before use, check that utensils/containers are suitable for use in microwave ovens.
17. Babies Bottles and Food Jars.
When reheating babies bottles always remove top and teat. Liquid
at the top of the bottle will be much hotter than that at the bottom
and must be shaken thoroughly before checking the temperature.
The lid must also be removed from babies food jars, the contents
must also be stirred or shaken before the temperature is checked.
This should be carried out before consumption in order to avoid
burns.
Important Information – Read Carefully

12
Microwave energy has been used in this country to cook and reheat food
since early experiments with RADAR in World War II. Microwaves are
present in the atmosphere all the time, both naturally and from manmade
sources.
Manmade sources include radar, radio, television, telecommunication links
and mobile phones.
Microwaving Principles
In a microwave oven, electricity is converted
into microwaves by the MAGNETRON.
REFLECTION
The microwaves bounce off the metal walls
and the metal door screen.
TRANSMISSION
Then they pass through the cooking
containers to be absorbed by the water
molecules in the food, all foods contain
water to a more or lesser extent.
HOW MICROWAVES COOK FOOD
Microwave Water Molecule Absorption Vibration
The microwaves cause the water molecules to vibrate which causes FRICTION, i.e.
HEAT. This heat then cooks the food. Microwaves are also attracted to fat and sugar
particles, and foods high in these will cook more quickly. Microwaves can only
penetrate to a depth of 11⁄2-2 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.
Oven cavity
Magnetron
Waveguide

13
The dish used to cook or reheat the food will get warm during cooking, as the heat
conducts from the food. Even in microwaving, oven gloves are required!
MICROWAVES CANNOT PASS THROUGH METAL AND THEREFORE METAL
COOKING UTENSILS CAN NEVER BE USED IN A MICROWAVE, FOR COOKING
ON MICROWAVE ONLY
Foods Not Suitable for Cooking by Microwave Only:
Yorkshire Puddings, Souffles, Double Crust Pastry Pies.
Because these foods rely on dry external heat to cook correctly, do not attempt to cook
by microwave.
Foods that require deep fat frying cannot be cooked either.
STANDING TIME
When a microwave oven is switched off, the food will continue to cook by
conduction – NOT BY MICROWAVE ENERGY. Hence STANDING TIME is very
important in microwaving, particularly for dense foods i.e. meat, cakes and reheated
meals (refer to page 14).
Boiled Eggs
Do not boil eggs in your microwave.
Raw eggs boiled in their shells can
explode and cause serious injury.
Important Notes

14
General Guidelines
STANDING TIME
Dense foods e.g. meat, jacket
potatoes and cakes, require a
STANDING TIME (inside or
outside of the oven) after cooking,
to allow heat to finish conducting
through the food.
MEAT JOINTS – Stand 15 mins. wrapped in aluminium foil.
JACKET POTATOES – Stand 5 mins. wrapped in aluminium foil when cooked by
microwave only. It is not necessary to stand jacket potatoes cooked in
COMBINATION mode.
LIGHT CAKES – Stand 5 mins. before removing from dish.
RICH DENSE CAKES – Stand 15-20 mins.
FISH – Stand 2-3 mins.
EGG DISHES – Stand 1-2 mins.
PRECOOKED CONVENIENCE FOODS – Stand for 2-3 mins.
PLATED MEALS – Stand for 2-3 mins.
VEGETABLES – Boiled potatoes benefit from standing
1-2 mins., however most other types of vegetables can be served immediately.
DEFROSTING – It is essential to allow standing time to
complete the process. This can vary from 5 mins. e.g. raspberries, to up to 1 hour
for a joint of meat.
If food is not cooked after STANDING TIME, return to oven and cook for additional
time.

15
General Guidelines
DISH SIZE
Follow the dish sizes given
in the recipes, as these
affect the cooking and
reheating times. A quantity of
food spread in a bigger dish
cooks and reheats more
quickly.
QUANTITY
Small quantities cook faster
than large quantities, also
small meals will reheat more
quickly than large portions.
SPACING
Foods cook more quickly
and evenly if spaced apart.
NEVER pile foods on top of
each other.
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.
vegetables and fruit, vary in
their moisture content
throughout the season.
Jacket potatoes are 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 trapped
steam assists in speeding up
cooking times. However, it
should be pierced before
cooking, to allow excess
steam to escape. Always
take care when removing
cling film from a dish as the
build-up of steam will be very
hot. Always purchase cling
film that states on the packet
“suitable for microwave
cooking” and use as a
covering only. Do not line
dishes with cling film. Do not
cover foods when cooking by
COMBINATION,
CONVECTION or GRILL.

16
General Guidelines
SHAPE
Even shapes cook evenly.
Food cooks better by
microwave when in a round
container rather than square.
DENSITY
Porous airy foods heat more
quickly than dense heavy
foods.
COVERING
Cover foods with microwave
cling film or a self-fitting lid.
Cover fish, vegetables,
casseroles, soups. Do not
cover sauces, jacket
potatoes, pastry items. Please
refer to cooking charts and
recipes for more information.
LIQUIDS
All liquids must be stirred
before and during heating.
Water especially must be
stirred before and during
heating, to avoid eruption.
Do not heat liquids that have
previously been boiled. DO
NOT OVERHEAT. Stir before
serving
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.
CLEANING
As microwaves work on food
particles, keep your oven
clean at all times. Stubborn
spots of food can be
removed by using a branded
oven cleaner, sprayed onto a
soft cloth, always wipe the
oven dry after cleaning. Avoid
cleaning any plastic parts
and door area. The catalytic
lining at the back is self
cleaning.
ARRANGING
Individual foods e.g. chicken
portions or chops, should be
placed on a dish so that the
thicker parts are to the
outside.
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. Food
temperature should be
between 5-8°C before cooking.
TURNING AND
STIRRING
Some foods require stirring
during cooking. Meat and
poultry should be turned
after half the cooking time.

17
Containers to use
1. Fill a microwave safe measuring jug
with 300ml (1⁄2 pt) cold water.
2. Place it on the base of the oven
alongside 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 microwaving, it
will remain cool, whilst the water in the
jug will begin to feel warm. If the testing
dish feels warm, do not use as it is
obviously 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.
Choosing the correct container is a very important factor in deciding the
success or failure of your cooking.
Testing Dishes for Suitability - For Microwave Cooking Only.
When unsure that a cooking container is suitable for
use in your microwave, check by the following test:
OVEN GLASS
Everyday glass that is heat resistant e.g. Pyrex®, is
ideal for Microwave, Convection, Grill or Combination
cooking. Do not use delicate glass or lead crystal which
may crack or arc.
CHINA AND CERAMIC
Everyday glazed china, porcelain or ceramic plates,
bowls, mugs and cups can be used if they are heat
resistant. Fine bone china should only be used for
reheating for short periods. Do not use dishes with a
metal rim or pattern. Do not use jugs or mugs with
glued handles, since the glue can melt. If dishes are
heat resistant they may be used on Convection and
Combination but not directly under the Grill.
QUICK CHECK GUIDE TO COOKING UTENSILS

18
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
containers on Microwave only as the microwaves cannot
pass through and the food will not heat evenly, it may also
damage your oven. Foil and metal containers can be used
on Grill and Convection modes and may be used with care
during certain Combination cooking, as long as they are
not damaged or dented.
CLING FILM
Microwave cling film can only be used for covering food
that is reheated by Microwave or Steam. 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. DO
NOT USE ON ANY OTHER COOKING MODE.
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, when using Microwave or Combination.
ALUMINIUM FOIL
Small amounts of smooth aluminium foil can be used to
SHIELD joints of meat during defrosting and cooking by
Microwave, 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. Aluminium foil can be used for
Convection cooking.
Containers to use

19
PLASTIC
Many plastic containers are designed for microwave use, but do not use for cooking
foods high in sugar or fat or for foods that require long cooking times e.g. brown rice.
Only use Tupperware®
containers if they are
designed for microwave
use. Do not use Melamine.
Never cook in margarine
cartons or yoghurt pots, as
these will melt with the heat
from the food. If heatproof
they can be used for
Convection or Combination
cooking. DO NOT USE
UNDER THE GRILL.
PAPER
Plain white absorbent kitchen paper (kitchen towel)
can only be used for microwave cooking e.g.
covering blind pastry cases and for covering bacon
to prevent splattering. ONLY USE FOR SHORT
COOKING TIMES. 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. Greaseproof paper can be used
to line the base of dishes and to cover fatty foods
e.g. bacon rashers, to stop splattering. White paper
plates can be used for SHORT REHEATING TIMES,
on Microwave only.
WICKER, WOOD AND STRAW BASKETS
Dishes will crack and could ignite.
Do not use wooden dishes in your microwave.
DO NOT USE ON ANY COOKING MODE.
Containers to use