Released May 21, 2009

FARGO, N.D.— When microwave ovens were introduced, many people believed that conventional cooking would be abandoned. Microwave ovens, however, primarily are used to reheat foods. Many of us use them on a near-daily basis.

Here are few reminders about microwave ovens, but always consult your owner's manual for specifics about your brand.

• Use microwave-safe containers. Not all glass containers are microwave-safe. To test your container, microwave the empty container for one minute. If it’s cool, it’s OK for cooking and reheating. If it’s lukewarm, it’s OK for reheating. If it’s hot, don’t use it in the microwave.
• Use only microwave-safe plastic wraps, wax paper, cooking bags, parchment paper and paper towels. According to the Food and Drug Administration, microwave-safe plastic wrap should be placed loosely over food so that steam can escape. The plastic wrap should not directly touch your food.
• Do not heat foods in margarine tubs, cottage cheese containers or takeout containers from restaurants. The containers may melt and/or chemicals may migrate into the food during the microwaving process.
• When making microwave popcorn, stay near the microwave oven. By leaving it unattended, you could face the risk of fire.
• Cook foods thoroughly by rotating and stirring the foods. Measure the internal temperature of the food in a couple of places with a food thermometer. Microwave-cooked food often has “cold spots.”
• Clean the microwave oven door and oven cavity regularly with water and mild detergent. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads to clean your microwave oven.

Here’s a recipe courtesy of the University of Kentucky Extension Service.

Microwave Apple Crisp

5 c. apples, peeled and sliced (or canned apple slices)

3/4 c. oatmeal

1 c. flour

3/4 c. brown sugar

1/2 tsp. salt

1 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 c. butter or margarine

Place apple slices in a 2-quart casserole dish. Combine dry ingredients. Cut in butter or margarine until mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle topping evenly over sliced apples. Place in microwave oven for 15 minutes, turning one-quarter turn often.

Makes eight servings. Each serving has 279 calories, 12 grams (g) of fat, 41 g of carbohydrate and 273 milligrams of sodium.

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http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/news/columns/prairie-fare/prairie-fare-appliance-innovations-change-the-pace-of-cooking

Source: Julie Garden-Robinson, (701) 231-7187, julie.garden-robinson@ndsu.edu

Editor: Rich Mattern, (701) 231-6136, richard.mattern@ndsu.edu