The Advantages and Disadvantages of Microwave Cooking
Some people swear by the microwave and some people will stick their nose up in the air at the thought of using one for anything at all. Whether you are zapping stuff every single day or only occasionally use yours, the microwave oven is recognized as one of the most vital and indispensable pieces of kitchen equipment these days in every kitchen from basic utility apartments to upscale restaurants and everything in between.
Time Saving
When you ask anyone about their microwave oven and why they use it, the most common answer will be that it saves them time. However, there are advantages and disadvantages to every aspect of the microwave including the time savings
- It is easy to overestimate the cooking ability of the microwave oven.
- While some foods will cook very quickly, it is important to know that doing so can make the food dry and tasteless.
- If you cook foods that are frozen too quickly, there is a chance that frozen areas could remain, allowing bacteria to continue to grow.
Taste and Appearance
While it is certainly possible to cook virtually anything in the microwave oven, the basic models will leave some foods looking less than fabulous. Some foods that are packaged to be cooked in the microwave will come out looking and tasting better than other foods might. There are packages that allow for steaming, crisping and even melting of cheeses and there are new bags that allow you to recreate the steaming features with your own recipes.
One of the biggest disadvantages of the microwave oven is the lack of browning. Some foods just look better with a good, brown color to them and a crispy coating. There are special pans and dishes that will allow for browning; however, how well they work will depend on the foods that you are cooking, the size and power of the microwave oven and the dishes that you are trying to use.
Food Safety
Food safety should always be one of the biggest factors that you look at whenever you cook anything. The microwave cooks food to high temperatures which can lead people to be convinced that they are thoroughly cooked while small hot pockets or cold spots can remain. It is also important to avoid superheating, which leaves liquids hotter than boiling and very unstable.
The Right Cookware and Accessories
There are several types of pans and dishes that can be used in the microwave safely; however, many people try to cut corners and save money by not using them. Reusing plastic ware that is not listed for microwave use can be dangerous because it can melt, release dangerous chemicals and can even catch on fire during the heating/cooking process.
In addition, you can use certain types of plastic wrap and plastic bags in the microwave; however, there are some types that are too thin to be used in the microwave at all. Never put anything in the microwave without a vent to allow steam to escape.
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