1. Microwaves

2. How Does a Microwave Work?
The microwave oven generates electromagnetic waves (called microwaves) which makes water move. This motion leads to friction, and friction leads to heating.
friction
heating
motion

3. How Does a Microwave Work?
This heat starts on the outside of the food and moves in.
The denser the food the longer it will take to cook.
Water will heat faster than a burrito, because a burrito is more dense than water.

4. Microwaves Microwaves are attracted to foods that are high in: sugar
fat
water

5. Microwave-able Containers
Paper
Plastic
Glass
Microwaveable Dishes

6. Containers….
A round and shallow container will cook the most evenly.

7. Non-Microwave-able Containers
Metal
Foil
Dishes with gold or silver on it.

8. Acceptable coverings for microwave dishes:
Paper towel – to absorb moisture, spatters, and spills.
Wax paper – holds in some of the moisture
Plastic wrap – hold in moisture

9. Techniques for Microwaving
Stirring: To pull heated part of the food to the center
Turning over: To microwave all sides
Rotating: Makes cooking even
Pricking: To keep foods from exploding
Standing Time: To allow foods to complete its cooking by placing on the counter.

10. Cooking Time These will increase the cooking time and standing time.
The volume of the food
Example: Small potatoes versus large potatoes.
The quantity or number
of food.

11. Microwave Safety
To prevent burning yourself from microwave cooking, remember:
Foods can create hot containers
Items can explode (eggs, potatoes). Pierce them with a fork.
Lifting the cover or plastic from the food can cause a burn.
Hot steam escaping can cause a burn

12. What foods should not be microwaved?