Many people think that the microwave can only be used for certain types of cooking. Other people think they can cook anything that they want in the microwave. There are a number of common misconceptions about the microwave oven and how it can be used for cooking, some of which can actually be dangerous if they are allowed to continue.
Like other kinds of cooking, education is important so that you are cooking as safely as possible. One wrong meal can leave your entire family very, very ill.
Hot, Cold, Frozen and the Power of Temperature
When you put food into the microwave, it is amazingly hot inside, not because of the common myth that the microwave cooks from the inside out but because the fillings of most foods are more liquid than the outer wrapper which makes them heat up to a higher point. However, no matter what you are cooking, it is important that you do so at the right temperature. It is a myth that any amount of time in the microwave is enough to destroy bacteria. If the food is not completely cooked through there is a possibility of cold spots that can allow bacteria to continue to live.
Frozen foods should be thawed before cooking in the microwave oven because the ice crystals can melt and leave areas that are hotter because they are more liquid while not cooking other areas to a high enough degree. Frozen foods that are meant to be cooked in the microwave can go straight from freezer to microwave without being thawed in between; however, they will still need to be cooked to the right temperature.,
Superheating
As described above, liquids, especially water, can reach super hot temperatures, even beyond the boiling point. While it may look perfectly normal, it may overreact and boil up rapidly and unexpectedly when it is disturbed; for instance, when you try to move the container out of the microwave. This can lead to serious scalding injuries to the user. It is a myth that you cannot boil water beyond the boiling point in the microwave.
Arcing
There is a myth that only metal will produce an electrical arc inside of the microwave. While it is true that you should not use large pieces of aluminum foil or other metal objects in the microwave, some very surprising things can arc when placed in specific patterns. Grapes, with their high water content, can arc in certain circumstances.
Standing Time
This one is not only true, it is a major safety warning when you are using the microwave oven for cooking. After you take food out of the microwave, it continues to cook for a short period of time, so it has to have standing time for safety and for best taste.
Most recipes that are written for microwaves will include standing time as part of the overall time needed to cook.
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