Zanussi MGE1255B Operating and safety instructions

INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE USE & CARE
OF YOUR ZANUSSI MICROWAVE
MGE1255B
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE USE & CARE
OF YOUR ZANUSSI MICROWAVE
MGE1255W

It is most important that this instruction book should be retained
with the appliance for future reference. Should the appliance be
sold or transferred to another owner, or should you move house
and leave the appliance, always ensure that book is supplied with
the appliance so that the new owner can be acquainted with the
functioning of the appliance and the relevant warnings.
Warnings
THESE WARNINGS ARE PROVIDED IN THE INTEREST OF SAFETY. YOU MUST
READ THEM CAREFULLY BEFORE INSTALLING OR USING THE APPLIANCE
• Do not use this appliance for any other purpose than the
preparation of normal domestic food. Take care to read the
instructions regarding loads and timings. Also the
recommendations/advice on suitable containers and
utensils (see cookery book).
• The oven must not be operated when empty as this could
damage the oven.
Do not operate the oven if it is damaged until it has been
repaired by a service technician trained by the
manufacturer. It is particularly important that the oven
door closes properly and that there is no damage to:
(1) Door (warped), (2) Hinges and Latches (broken or
loosened), (3) Door Seals and Sealing Surfaces (broken or
cracked).
• Always keep the door seal and door surfaces clean by
wiping regularly with a damp cloth, so that any grease, soil
or spatters are not allowed to build up. Such build up could
result in leakage of microwave energy from the oven.
• This appliance is designed to be operated by adults.
Children should not be allowed to tamper with the controls
or play with the product.
• Any electrical work required to install this appliance
should be carried out by a qualified person.
• This product should be serviced by an authorised
Zanussi Network Service Centre, and only genuine Zanussi
spare parts should be used.
• It is dangerous to alter the specifications or modify the
product in any way.
• DO NOT overcook foods. Overcooking certain foods can
result in dehydration and subsequently fire. Jacket
potatoes and foods with a high sugar content - such as
those containing dried fruits - are particularly vulnerable.
In case of fire unplug the oven and do not open the door.
• Care and cleaning of the appliance are important. Food
deposits should not be left on the interior cabinet. Do not
place any object between the oven front face and the door,
or allow the door seals to accumulate dirt.
• Always be careful when removing protective film from
food after cooking as the steam when released can cause
burns.
• Any foodstuffs with a ‘skin’, e.g. potatoes, sausages etc,
must be pierced in order to allow for the release of steam.
• Under no circumstances should live animals be placed in
a microwave.
• Unplug the appliance if it is to be left for a period of time,
e.g. during holidays or long weekends.
• Bases of cooking vessels get very hot. Care should be
taken that the dish does not come into contact with any
plastic surface. Wear protective gloves.
• Care should be taken when using microwave browning
dishes on the glass tray as the bases become exceedingly
hot and may cause the tray to shatter (See browning dish
manufacturers’ instructions on timings and use).
• Be cautious when eating food direct from the microwave
as items with a high sugar or fat content can be very hot
inside.
• Airflow above, below and at the sides of a microwave
should not be restricted. See installation instructions.
• Only use cooking containers recommended for use in a
microwave.
• Do not use metal containers, metal glazed china,
melamine or cut glass as cooking containers, or bags with
metal ties.
• Do not use more than the recommended quantities of
aluminium foil in the oven.
• Do not use capped bottles, jars or tins.
• Do not use the oven for drying any items.
• Leave the oven empty at all times when not in use and do
not operate the oven when empty.
• Do not let the timer continue to operate after removing
the food.
• Do not attempt to cook or reheat eggs in their shells,
they may explode. Pierce the yolks of eggs.
• Do not attempt to deep fat fry in a microwave.
• Do not use this appliance if it is in contact with water.
• Do not reheat drinks in plastic cups, they could melt.
• Do not use a conventional meat thermometer. They may
be used outside the cooker to check temperatures but not
during cooking.
• Always remove the metal shelf when it is not in use.
• The stirrer glass shield must be in position at all times.
• Under no circumstances should you attempt to repair
the appliance yourself. Repairs carried out by
inexperienced persons may cause serious injury. Consult
your local Zanussi Network Service Centre. Always insist
on genuine Zanussi spare parts.
WARNING: it is dangerous for any person other
than a service technician trained by the
manufacturer to perform service repairs.

Contents
Specifications.
Installation.
Features Diagram.
Using your microwave oven . .
Operating instructions.
Planning & Cooking.
Cleaning and Maintenance ....
Practical Hints..
Microwave Cooking Terms and Techniques .
Questions and Answers.
If the oven does not work ....
Zanussi Guarantee Conditions
Zanussi 5 Year Cover.
page 3
page 4
page 6
page 7
page 8-15
page 16
page 17
page 18
page 19
page 20
page 21
page 22
page 23
Important: the installation of the oven and connection to the electricity supply must
always be done by competent installers and to standards and regulations currently in
force.
2

Specifications
MGE1255
AC Line Voltage
AC Power Required
Output Power
uW Frequency
Exterior Dimensions
Oven Cavity Dimensions
Cooking Uniformity
Weight
24GV/50Hz
1470W
650W (2 litre water load)
2450 MHz
560mm (W) x 395mm (H) x 439mm (D)
370mm (W) x 270mm (H) x 370mm (D)
Wave Stirrer (Motor driven)
Approx 28 kg

Installation
Please note: This microwave cooker has
been designed to be used in a domestic
household. Therefore the guarantee
supplied with this appliance may be
invalidated if it has been used for a
commercial or catering application.
After unpacking, ensure that all packing
materials have been removed from the
oven cavity.
Positioning
This oven is free-standing and can be
placed wherever you choose within reach
of a power outlet. Ensure that the surface
on which the oven is to stand is level and is
capable of withstanding the weight. To
ensure that the oven has adequate
ventilation, there must be at least 2.5cm/l
inch of clearance at the top, 4cm/lV2
inches at the back and a total of 15cm/6
inches side clearance.
The unit must not be installed in any area
where heat and steam are generated, for
example, next to a conventional oven.
NOTE* Do not store cookbooks or the
instruction book inside or underneath the
oven. Do not place tea towels or utensils
over the cooling vents.
Electrical Connection
*THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE
EARTHED
For your convenience and safety, your
new Zanussi microwave oven comes ready
fitted with a moulded flex and plug. All you
need to do is push the plug into a 13 amp
power socket and switch on. If for any
reason you need to replace this plug with
one of your own, you will find the wires
inside the flex are colour coded as follows:
GREEN AND YELLOW - EARTH
BLUE - NEUTRAL
BROWN - LIVE
If you fit your own plug, the colours of the
wires in the mains lead of your appliance
may not correspond with the markings
identifying the terminals in your plug. If
this is the case proceed as follows:
Connect the green and yellow (earth) wire
to the terminal in the plug which is marked
with the letter ‘E’ or the earth symbol JL
or coloured either green or green and
yellow.
Connect the blue (neutral) wire to the
terminal in the plug which is marked with
the letter ‘N’ or coloured black. Connect
the brown (live) wire to the terminal which
is marked with the letter ‘L’ or coloured
red.
The cut off plug should be disposed of to
avoid the risk of shock from the plug being
inserted into a 13 amp socket elsewhere in
the house.
Fuses
The appliance’s moulded-on plug is
supplied fitted with a 13 amp BS1362 fuse.
If this fuse blows you can replace it in the
following way:
Remove the plug from the power socket
and use a small screwdriver to lever out
the red plastic fuse carrier located
between the plug’s prongs, together with
the old fuse. Fit in a new 13 amp fuse and
clip it back into the plug. Make sure your
new fuse is ‘ASTA’ approved and
complies with BS1362. If the carrier is
damaged you can get a new one from your
local Zanussi Service Agent, the details of
which can be obtained by looking under ‘Z’
in your telephone directory.
Safety
★ Check that the supply flex and any
other wiring is positioned in such a way
that when the microwave oven is
operating its temperature at any point is
less than 50 degrees C above the ambient
temperature of the room.
4

★ Never remove the rear panel of the
oven to gain access to the terminal board.
If an extension is required it should be
made using the standardised plug and the
external cable, which should be capable of
carrying the expected load.
★ Check that the fuse and domestic
installation are suitable to carry the
electric load of this appliance (see rating
plate at the back of the oven).
★ Check that the appliance is properly
earthed according to existing rules and
regulations.
This appliance meets the requirements laid
down in the EEC Directive No 76/889 and
amendment 82/499 relating to the
suppression of radio and TV interference.
5

Features Diagram
Becoming familiar with the working parts of your microwave oven will help you
understand the important operating information on the following pages.
1. SEE THROUGH DOOR lets you
check the cooking without interrupting the
cooking cycle.
2. REMOVABLE TRAY makes cleaning
easy. The tray should always be kept in
place when using the oven.
3. VENTS should be kept unobstructed.
Leave at least 2 inches of clear space
above the oven for air circulation.
4. CONTROL PANEL.
5. OVEN LIGHT.
6. SHELF SUPPORTS.
7. RATING PLATE located on the face
of the oven front adjacent to the hinge.
8. AIR INTAKE AREA.
9. METAL SHELF.
10. GLASS SPLASH SHIELD. This can
be removed for cleaning, but must be
installed before operating the oven as it is
an integral part of the air flow system. To
replace, carefully slide the glass shield
through the guards all the way back. When
properly in place, the shield will drop
slightly to locate.
11. BROWNER ELEMENT.
12. POWER SWITCH.
6

Using your
microwave oven
Before using the microwave oven for the
first time, ensure that all packaging
materials have been removed from both
the outside and inside of the oven. Wipe
Out the inside of the oven with a damp
cloth. Check that the door seal and sealing
surfaces are not broken or cracked, that
the door is not warped and that the hinges
and latches are not broken or loosened. If
you do find any damage, contact your local
Zanussi Network Service Centre.
Microwave cooking is very versatile. It
enables you to cook, reheat, roast,
simmer, hold-warm and even defrost with
speed and convenience.
As microwaving is such a new and fast way
of cooking, you should be able to be more
adventurous as you become more familiar
with this method of cooking.
To begin with something easy, heat a cup
of coffee in a mug for two minutes, but
open the door at any time and check if the
coffee is as hot as you like it. Next try
heating leftovers on a plate. An average
serving takes about 2-3 minutes on power
level 8. Look for steam or test the food to
see if it is ready.
You can open the door at any stage. If
additional time is needed, add it gradually.
It is always better to under estimate the
cooking time than over estimate.
Every recipe in the cookbook gives the
approximate cooking time. Because of
factors such as food temperature, dish
shape, arrangement of food and density of
food it is difficult to give a precise time.
Always start with a shorter time and add
time if needed.
The microwave oven cooks much faster
than conventional ovens. It is wise to take
special care when you are cooking
something for which specific timings have
not been recommended. This applies
particularly when reheating foods. Always
watch the cooking or heating of the food
and give it a short cooking time, adding
more until you have the required results.
You will soon learn the correct timings for
cooking or heating your favourite foods. It
is important to remember that it is
possible to bum foods if they are cooked
for too long, but the burning will occur
inside the food first and will only become
apparent by smell.
The oven must not be used without the
glass tray in position.
The door seal is designed to prevent
leakage of microwave energy during
cooking. Occasionally moisture may
appear around the oven door. This is
normal and does not necessarily indicate
that the oven is leaking microwave
energy.
Please remember that the cookbook is
only a guide.
7

Operating
Instructions
The controls
1. POWER SWITCH. Push the button
located at the bottom of the control panel
to turn on the microwave oven. The light
inside the oven will come on and the
control panel will be ready for you to
programme. When you’ve finished
cooking, push the button again to turn the
oven off. This button does not start the
cooking process.
2. START. Press the START button
when you have programmed your oven,
unless you are using the delay start
function.
3. CANCEL. This button is used to
cancel any errors in programming.
Everything is cancelled except the clock.
4. COOK 1. This button allows you to
cook automatically at high (100%) power
or any of 9 other power levels available. It
is also used in conjunction with the number
buttons to set the cooking time.
5. COOK 2. This button is used when you
wish to cook the food firstly at one power
level and then at another. Two sets of
cooking times and power levels can be
programmed at once without any
interruption to the cooking process or
without stopping the microwave oven.
6. POWER LEVEL. The oven will
automatically cook at High power (100%).
If you wish to opt for any of the other 9
power levels, touch the POWER LEVEL
button then the number button for the
level you wish to select. For example, if
you wish to cook at Medium (50%), touch
POWER LEVEL then ‘5’. For Low
(30%), touch POWER LEVEL and then
‘3’. There is no need to press the 0
button.
7. DEFROST. This button is used for
either defrosting or cooking at Low (30%)
power. It is used in conjunction with the
number pads as you programme the
recommended time for thawing frozen
foods.
The DEFROST HOLD feature
automatically assures you of more
complete defrosting when you are planning
to cook immediately after defrosting and
have programmed the cooking time. After
the defrosting time is completed, the
Defrost Hold indicator light will begin
flashing if the COOK 1 button and a time is
set to automatically take place. There will
be a holding time equal to the defrosting
time before the cooking actually begins.
8. CLOCK. Use the CLOCK button when
setting the time of day or when you want
to check the time while you’re cooking.
9. TIME/START. You can use the
TIME/START button as a reminder for
many kitchen chores. The TIME/START
lets you set the controls to turn the oven
on automatically at any time of the day,
whether you are at home or not.
10. NUMBER BUTTONS. These
numbers are used for different functions:
a) To set power levels (see POWER
LEVEL button).
b) To set cooking times when using the
various function buttons.
c) To set CLOCK, Start Time and Timer
functions.
The maximum length of time you can set
for any function is 99 minutes and 99
seconds. (99:99).
11. THE DISPLAY WINDOW. Individual
light indicators flash to show when the
oven is in any of the functions: Defrost,
Hold, Programme 1, Programme 2,
Timer, or Start Time.
The digital numbers will show what power
level you have set, the time you have set,
as well as the cooking time remaining after
the oven starts. It will show the counting
of any holding time.
8

12. BROWNER. With the built in
Browner, you can put that perfect finishing
touch to meat joints, desserts and other
food. Touch the BROWNER button and
number buttons for the length of time you
want to brown the food. Browning can be
programmed to automatically follow the
last cooking function.
Operating the controls
These controls are easy to operate. Just
practice by following the step by step
instructions below and you’ll soon become
familiar with the operation.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Each time
you give the oven an instruction by
touching a button, it will ‘bleep’ in
response.
PLEASE REMEMBER NEVER TO
PRESS THE ‘START’ BUTTON WHEN
THERE IS NO FOOD IN THE OVEN,
SO PLACE A CUP OF WATER IN THE
OVEN WHILST YOU’RE PRACTICING.
Any mistakes in programming can be
cancelled by pressing the CANCEL
button.
When you are practicing, you can use the
CANCEL button to clear the programmes
if you don’t want to wait for the time to
elapse. This CANCEL button can be used
whenever you wish to finish one cooking
task and move to another.
Oven shelf
Your new microwave oven includes a
removable metal shelf to increase the
capacity of the oven. The shelf is designed
specifically for use in your oven and will
not interfere with the correct distribution
of microwaves. No other shelf should be
used.
The shelf can be used in either of two
positions. You should choose the position
that suits the sizes of dishes being used.
The shelf must be removed when it is not
in use.
The shelf is used for
1. Cooking or reheating several items of
food at one time in the oven.
2. Increasing the oven capacity so that
complete oven meals can be cooked in a
simple one or two step operation. See
‘Planning and Cooking’ for hints on how to
benefit from your oven shelf.
3. The metal shelf should only be used
when employing both cooking levels, or
browning. On no account may it be used
when microwave cooking on one level
only.
4. The shelf will allow you to select the
proper distance between the foods and the
browner element.
NOTE: When browning and under some
circumstances the metal shelf will become
hot. Oven gloves should be used if the
shelf is to be handled during or just after
cooking.
SHELF IN LOWER POSITION
9

The Display Window
The display window has three basic
functions:
1. It shows what you are programming
the oven to do
2. It shows what the oven is actually
doing while cooking
3. It gives you the time of day
Digital timing display
A flashing colon will appear in the display
window whenever the microwave is
plugged in or the electric power comes on
after being off. Once you have set the
clock, the time of day will appear in the
window when the POWER switch is off.
When this is pushed in, four zeros will
appear.
When setting a cooking time, the numbers
will move across the screen from right to
left, as you touch the number buttons.
Function indicators
Small bars of light will appear in the display
window.
Defrost: Flashes when you touch the
DEFROST button. Remains lighted during
the defrost operation.
Hold: Lights if you programme a CLOCK
1 operation immediately following defrost,
or if you programme a temperature of 60
or above. Tins remain lighted until the
oven goes in to Defrost Hold, when it
flashes until the hold cycle is finished. Also
flashes when a Start Time has been set
and the oven is waiting to begin cooking.
Cook 1: Flashes when you touch the
COOK 1 button or set a cooking time.
Remains lighted until the oven begins the
Cook 1 cycle, then flashes until that cycle
is completed.
Cook 2: Flashes when you touch the
COOK 2 button. Remains lighted until the
oven goes into the second cooking cycle,
then flashes until that cycle is finished.
Delay Start: Flashes when you touch the
TIME/START button. Remains lighted
until the oven begins cooking.
Browner: Flashes when you touch the
‘Start Time’ pad. Remains lighted until the
oven beging cooking.
Power levels
When you touch the POWER LEVEL
button the letter ‘H’ will show in the
display. This indicates that the oven is
automatically set to cook at High (100%)
power level.
When you change the power level the
number which you programme will be
shown on the display. For example, if you
change the power level to 50% by
touching the number 5, the number 50 will
be displayed. To check a power level
during a cook cycle, simply touch the
POWER LEVEL button to recall the
information for 3 seconds. The power level
can be changed at any time during the
cycle. Simply touch the POWER LEVEL
button, and programme revised power
level.
10

The clock
The digital 24 hour clock operates even when the oven is not in use. The clock should
always be set and running. While most timing can be done if the clock is not set, the
TIME/START feature cannot. The oven should be turned off by the switch button
before setting the clock.
To recall the time of day during cooking, simply touch the CLOCK button and the
correct time of day will appear for 3 seconds on the display window.
If no time is set, or the wrong time, (e.g. 33:00), a flashing colon appears in the display
window. If the oven is unplugged or the power is off, the time will be lost. When power
is restored, the flashing colon will appear to remind you to reset the clock. If an
incorrect time appears, touch the CLOCK button.
To set the clock to the correct time of day.
• Suppose you wish to set the clock to 1:49pm (13:49).
PROCEDURE
BUTTON ORDER
DISPLAY
1: Touch the CLOCK button
CLOCK
o
FLASHING
■
■
2: Touch the numbers 1, 3, 4 and
9 buttons
13 4 9
o o o o
PRESS Once Once Once Once
i
3: Touch the START button
Start
o
Setting the cook programmes
To cook at Full Power:
As the oven automatically cooks at High level you would normally only need to
programme the cooking times required.
• Suppose you wish to set the cooking time for 45 seconds at full power.
PROCEDURE
BUTTON ORDER
DISPLAY
1: Push in the switch button
h h
press r
00:00
1
2: Touch the numbers 4 and
5 buttons
4 S
o o
PRESS Once Once
:45
1
3: Touch the START button
Start
o
:45
1
The cooking time will count down to zero at the end of all cooking cycles. When the
timer reaches zero, the indicators will go out and you will hear four ‘bleeps’. Microwave
energy will stop and the time of day will reappear on the display, after the ON/OFF
button is released.
If the door is opened during the cooking process, the cooking time in the readout
automatically stops. The cooking time starts to count down again when the door is
closed as the START button is touched.
If you have touched START and the oven is operating, you can double-check the cooking
function times you have set by touching the retrospective function button EXCEPT for
any cooking function already in operation or completed. This information will appear on
the display window for 3 seconds, then the display will go back to whatever cooking
function the oven is in. i -i

Cooking at a different power level
• Suppose you wish to set the cooking time for 20 minutes at 70% power level.
PROCEDURE
BUTTON ORDER
DISPLAY
1: Push in the switch button
P P
PRESS * r
00:00
2: Touch the number 2 button
once, and the number 3 button
three times
2 0
o o
PRESS Once Three Times
20:00
3: Touch the POWER LEVEL
button then the number
7 button
Power level 7
o o
70
4: Touch the START button
Start
o
20:00
Using COOK 2 to give two d iff erent, power levels in one cooking programme.
Some recipes require food to be cooked at one power level for a period of time, and a
different power level for the remaining period. You can programme the oven to do this
automatically.
• Suppose you wish to programme the oven to cook at High (100%) for 8 minutes, and
Medium (50%) for 70 minutes. This would give a total cooking time of 1 hour 18
minutes.
PROCEDURE
BUTTON ORDER
DISPLAY
1: Push in the switch button
p p
PRESS l r
IBiHEIiB
2: Touch COOK 1, then number
8 button, then 0 button twice
COOK 1 8 0
o o o
PRESS Once Once Twice
8:00
3: Touch COOK 2, then number
7 button, then 0 button three
times
COOK 2 7 0
o o o
PRESS Once Once Three Times
4: Set the new power level.
Touch POWER LEVEL, then
number 5 button
Power level 5
o o
5: Touch the START button
Start
o
Once ■ 9
12

Using the TIME/START facility
This enables you to programme the oven to turn on at any time you choose. PLEASE
NOTE that if the time/start feature does not work, it is because the clock is not set and
running.
• Suppose you want the oven to turn on automatically at 17.30 hours (5.30pm) and cook
the food for 35 minutes.
PROCEDURE BUTTON ORDER
DISPLAY
1: Push in the switch button
PRESS [—1 P
00:00
2: Touch the TIME/START
button
Time/Start
PRESS O
3: Touch the numbers 5, 3 and 0
buttons
5 3 0
o o o
PRESS Once Once Once
5:30
4: Touch the COOK 1 button and
number 3 button once, number
5 button once and number 0
button twice
COOK 1 3 5 0
o o o o
PRESS Once Once Once Once
35:00
Start
PRESS O
Hit
The ‘Hold’ indicator light will flash and the time of day will show until it is time for the
microwave to start cooking. If the door is opened before cooking begins, touch the
START button again after the door is closed. If this procedure is not carried out,
cooking will not start.
Setting the Timer
This facility can be used as a handy timer for many domestic chores. The timer does not
control the oven in any way and can only be used when the power switch is not turned
on, i.e. when the oven is not being used for cooking.
When the timer reaches zero it gives 4 short ‘bleeps’.
• Suppose you wish to set the timer to 38 seconds.
PROCEDURE
BUTTON ORDER
DISPLAY
1: Push in the switch button
p p
PRESS l 1
00:00
2: Touch the number 3 button and
the number 8 button
3 8
o o
PRESS Once Once
:38
3: Touch the START button
Start
o
PRESS Once
:38
The set time may be changed by touching CANCEL once, then TIME/START and the
new time. Then touch START.
When the time has run out, the display will show 00:00. To restore the clock, touch
either CANCEL or CLOCK. ,

Using the defrost facility
Food is automatically defrosted at a low setting (30%), and you should never attempt to
defrost it at a higher power.
The oven automatically cycles on and off which allows the heat to equalize throughout
the food. At higher power levels, you will find that before the food is completely
defrosted on the inside, the outer edges may begin cooking.
It is important to thoroughly defrost food before cooking.
• Suppose you wish to defrost for six minutes.
PROCEDURE
BUTTON ORDER
DISPLAY
1: Push in the switch button
p \\
PRESS I r
00:00
2: Touch DEFROST then number
6 button once and number 0
button twice
DEFROST 6 0
o o o
PRESS Once Once Twice
6:00
3: Touch the START button
Start
o
PRESS Once
6:00
Defrost hold
When using the DEFROST button, you can programme the oven to automatically start
cooking after the defrost time is completed.
There will be an automatic holding time or standing time before the cooking actually
starts. The Defrost Hold indicator will flash while this holding time is in progress.
During Defrost Hold, the display will count down to equal the original defrost time.
During the holding time, temperatures even out throughout the food to give complete
defrosting.
• Suppose you wish to defrost food for 2 minutes and automatically cook at on High
(100%) for 20 seconds.
PROCEDURE
BUTTON ORDER
DISPLAY
1: Push in the switch button
P P
PRESS » r
00:00
2: Touch the DEFROST button,
then number 2 button once and
the number 0 button twice
DEFROST 2 0
o o o
PRESS Once Once Twice
2:00
3: Touch COOK 1, then number
2 button once and number
0 button once
COOK 1 2 0
o o o
PRESS Once Once Once
4: Touch the START button
Start
o
PRESS Once
2:00
PLEASE NOTE: If the door is opened during the Defrost Hold period, the remaining
defrost hold period is cancelled, and on closing the door and touching the START button,
the COOK 1 period will start immediately.
14

Using the browner
The Browner in your microwave gives food a light, golden-brown ‘finished’ look and
adds a little extra crispness to foods. Remember to use heat resistant utensils when
using the browner.
The following will give you a guide to browning times. The exact time will depend on the
type of food, whether the element is still warm from an earlier browning operation and
the amount of browning desired. The food should be browned on the shelf position that
places the top of the food close to the element. All excess juices and liquids should be
drained before browning.
4 Chicken pieces. 10-13 minutes
4 Lamb chops . 6-8 minutes
5 Beefburgers.8-10 minutes
Victoria Sandwich . 6-8 minutes
Meringue Pie . 5-6 minutes
Please note that a browner element is not a substitute for a full grill on a conventional
cooker.
• Suppose you wish to set the oven to brown for 4 minutes
PROCEDURE
BUTTON ORDER
DISPLAY
1: Push in the switch button
p |
PRESS 1 1
00:00
2: Place the food to be browned directly under the browning element.
Be sure that the shelf is in the correct position (see Planning and
cooking)._
3: Touch BROWN, then number
4 button and number 0
button twice
BROWN 4 0
o o o
PRESS Once Once Twice
4:00
4: Touch the START button
ON/OFF
o
PRESS Once
4:00
• Suppose you wish to programme the oven to cook a meringue for 3 minutes at 50%
power, and then immediately brown it for 5 minutes
PROCEDURE
BUTTON ORDER DISPLAY
1: Push in the switch button
h h
PRESS 1 r
00:00
2: Touch CLOCK 1, then number
3 button and number 0 button
twice. Touch POWER LEVEL
then number 5 button
CLOCK 1 3 0 Power Level 5
o o o o o
PRESS Once Once Twice Once Once
3:00
3: Touch BROWN, then number
5 button and number 0
button twice
BROWN 5 0
o o o
PRESS Once Once Twice
5:00
4: Touch the START button
Start
o
PRESS 0nce
15

Planning and
cooking
. . . multi foods and
complete oven meals in the
microwave oven
When cooking several food items or
complete oven meals, the location of each
item is important. When combining
cooking of several dishes, those that
require the longest cooking times are
placed on the shelf whilst those requiring
shorter cooking or heating times are
placed on the glass tray. This is because
the microwaves first start cooking the food
at the top of the oven.
Remember that as the amount of food
placed in the oven is increased the cooking
times must also be increased. Therefore,
complete oven meals will require a longer
cooking time than the cooking of one food
item.
To get a general idea of how much time a
complete meal will require, add up the
amount of time required for each food, if
cooked separately, and this will be the
approximate cooking time required. In
most cases, the cooking of a complete
meal at one time will not save significant
cooking times. However, the convenience
of being able to place all the food in the
oven at the same time will make
microwave cooking more convenient.
When planning oven meals, take into
consideration the types of food and how
quickly they cook in the oven. It may be
necessary for you to check the food during
cooking, removing some food ahead of
time or allowing some food to cook for a
longer period of time. In most cases you
can place several items of food in the
microwave oven at the same time.
However, some food that takes longer to
cook should be put in the oven earlier, and
faster cooking food, such as rolls should be
put in the oven later in the cooking period.
Placing food directly over each other on
the top and bottom shelves will slow down
cooking of the food on the bottom glass
tray.
Place small cups or dishes carefully on the
shelf so they do not tip.
16

Cleaning and
maintenance
Microwave oven cleaning
*THE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY SHOULD
BE DISCONNECTED BY REMOVING
THE PLUG FROM THE SOCKET
BEFORE CLEANING.
It is important to wipe up all spillages as
these can affect the cooking time. The
spillages absorb microwave energy and
prolong the cooking time.
To keep the oven free from grease and
soil build-up, it should be cleaned with a
damp cloth after use. A soft nail brush can
be used to remove stubborn stains.
Odours can be eliminated from the inside
of the oven by boiling a solution of one cup
of water and several tablespoons of lemon
juice in the cavity. We would also
recommend occasionally wiping the oven
interior with a sterilising fluid e.g. Milton,
in the interest of hygiene.
Only use a mild detergent, water and a
soft, clean cloth to clean the oven face and
other surfaces, and polish dry with a soft
cloth or paper towelling. Do not use
aerosol, caustic or abrasive cleaners, or
scrape the interior surface with knives or
other utensils. This could cause the
enamel paint to come off, exposing the
metal underneath. Any exposed metal
could cause sparking or arcing, and further
damage to the oven.
Wipe out crumbs that fall between the
door and the frame with a damp cloth. It is
important that the door seal area is kept
clean. If there is a greasy film on the oven
door, a small amount of vinegar water can
be used to remove the grease. Rinse with
cold water and polish dry with a soft cloth
or paper towelling.
The light bulb
If the light bulb should bum out, it is very
easy to replace.
1. Unplug the microwave oven from the
mains supply.
2. Remove the smaller of the two access
covers on the outside back of the oven by
removing the screw (where fitted) or
pressing the bottom centre upwards to
release the clip. (The access cover is also
an air vent).
3. Take out the burned out light bulb and
replace with a 40W round bulb with E14
screw cap.
4. Replace the access cover and fixing
screw (where fitted). This cover must be
in place before operating the oven.
5. Plug in the microwave oven and it is
ready for use again.
17

Practical hints ★ Cheese from the refrigerator can be
brought back to room temperature in a
matter of seconds in your oven.
★ Dinner rolls can be heated in a basket ★ Microwave oranges for 10-15 seconds
lined with a cloth or paper napkin and for easy peeling.
taken to the table. Ensure you only heat
for a short time as the bread can become
brittle with overcooking.
★ When you have extra time, make Gake
toppings and fillings and store in the
refrigerator. When required just heat for
10-20 seconds and spread on cake.
★ Freezer wrapping can be easily
removed from frozen meat if heated in the
microwave oven until the wrapper looks
moist.
★ Commercially packaged frozen fruit can
be placed in a glass dish and defrosted in a
few minutes for serving. Put package or
carton in glass dish to hold the melted
juice. Open carton and serve fruit. If the
package has metal ends, remove before
heating.
★ Try cooking chicken halves, whole
hams, roasts, etc. for a short time in the
microwave cooker before placing them on
the rotisserie or grilling over the outdoor
barbecue. This will avoid excessive
exterior charring.
★ Bread may be taken from the freezer
and quickly defrosted in your microwave
oven. Open bag and be sure to remove
metal ties. Heat until you can see a drop
or two of moisture inside the wrapping.
★ Melt butter or chocolate, soften butter
for creaming or for spreading on bread or
toast.
★ If a small amount of food is heated in
the microwave oven, such as a table spoon
of butter, a square of chocolate or a small
potato, place a cup of water in the cooker
to increase the cooking load.
★ Wooden spoons may be left in sauces
etc. for up to 5 minutes.
18

Microwave
cooking terms
and techniques
Stirring
With food such as casseroles, sauces and
soups it is necessary to stir the ingredients
during the cooking time so that the heat is
evenly distributed.
Arrangement of food
To ensure even cooking of food it is best
to arrange it so that the thinner sections
are placed towards the centre of the dish,
and the thicker, more dense parts of the
food are on the outside. For example, if
cooking chicken drumsticks, the joint
should be arranged with the plump end
pointing out from the centre of the dish.
Turning food
Also to ensure even cooking, dense items
such as hams, roasts or whole poultry
should be turned at least once during the
cooking programme. When using individual
dishes it is advisable at some time during
the cooking programme to re-arrange the
dishes so that they will all be ready at the
same time.
Standing time
Microwaves only penetrate food to a depth
of 4 cm/lV 2 inches, so dense food items
are best left to stand for a short period of
time once the microwave cooking is
complete. The heat inside the food will
penetrate to the centre and ensure that it
is completely cooked. Standing time can
take place either on the kitchen surface or
in the microwave with the power off. The
food is covered, often with foil, and left so
that the heat can transfer evenly
throughout the food. The denser the food,
the longer the standing time.
Shape of food
Always aim for uniform shapes to aid the
even cooking of food. This is especially
relevant when cooking joints of meat and it
is advisable to bone and roll joints such as
legs of lamb before cooking.
Covering
There are several types of covering and
they are all used for different purposes.
Plastic film or glass lids help to hold in
steam and therefore retain moisture so the
food can cook more quickly. Paper towels
or napkins can be used as loose covers in
order to prevent spitting and also to
absorb moisture. Wax paper can also be
used.
Cookware
The range of cooking utensils that can be
used in the microwave is wide. There are
many excellent varieties of cookware
specially manufactured for use in the
microwave/freezer. Also much of the
conventional kitchen equipment is quite
suitable. The basic rule to remember is
not to use anything made of metal or with
any metal parts. This includes screws,
handles, metallic designs on plates, foil
dishes, and metal ties on food bags from
the freezer. Some plastics such as
melamine or urethane may be warped or
cracked in the microwave. The most
suitable dishes are made of china, pottery,
ovenproof glass or paper. For further
information see your microwave cook
book. If you have any doubts about the
suitability of a particular dish, carry out a
simple test by placing a glass half filled
with water next to the dish to be tested in
the oven. Heat for 30 seconds. If the dish
feels warm, it should not be used.
19