Microwave Utensils

Variety of microwave utensils may surprise you.

A spoon accidentally left in the dish, a foil-lined paper sack, a metal ring or a dish, or a metal tie on a loaf of bread will act as an antenna and cause arcing in the oven. Avoid using metal in the oven.

No metal cooking pots or pans can be used in microwave ovens. That's the general rule. The exception to the rule is that some manufacturers permit metal TV dinner trays in their ovens. Be sure you follow the manufacturer's size specifications. Even though, metal trays are permitted in some ovens; you'll get better results, faster; if you pop the food onto a glass dish.

Acceptable utensils…

Glass, ceramic, pyroceramic, and pottery containers can be used in the oven. Do not use utensils which have metal trim anywhere; this includes trims of gold and silver. Some paints or glazes contain metallic oxides made of substances that shouldn't be put in the oven.

To test a dish for microwave oven safety…

Put one cup of tap water in the oven with the dish and set the timer for one minute. If the dish is still cool when you take it out it can be used. A hot dish is a warning that the dish is not suitable for use in a microwave oven. If the container has a screw in the glass lid; it cannot be used.

Corning Ware can be used, with the exception of: Centura dinnerware and cookware covers and the Corelle Living Ware closed handle cups. The cups with open handles may be used in the microwave oven.

Dishwasher-safe plastics may be used for heating foods that don't contain fats and sugar. Tupperware is best used for storing food, not cooking it. Melamine Ware, Melmac, has a tendency to absorb energy so it should be tested for use.

• Plastic foam cups and dishes can be used for heating.

• Heavy duty plastic wraps on the market may be used in the microwave oven for short periods of time. Other lightweight plastic wraps have a tendency to become distorted in the microwave oven.

• Wax paper or paper towels are good covers to use in the microwave oven.

• Plastic baby bottles can be used for heating milk or formula.

• Spatulas and spoons for non-stick pans can be left in the oven for a short time.

• Plastic utensils should be used only for heating foods to serving temperature. Longer cooking causes the food to reach a high temperature and distorts the plastic.

• Paper such as napkins, towels, plates, cups, frozen food cartons, freezer wrap and heavy cardboard is suitable for microwave oven use. They may help to absorb moisture and prevent splatter if they're placed over the food. Rolls and breads can be heated in a napkin or cloth to prevent them form becoming soggy. Avoid cooking foods on paper for long periods.

• Straw or wooden baskets with no metallic paint or staples can be used for reheating breads.

• Wooden spoons can be left in a dish in the microwave for a short time. Don't use a wooden spoon or a dish with a varnish or lacquer finish or one that has been seasoned with cooking oil. The heat could ruin the finish.

• Small amounts of aluminum foil can be used to shield those parts of foods that are unevenly shaped, are overcooking, or you just don't want included in the cooking process. You must have a total of two cups of food in the oven. Be sure the aluminum foil used for shielding does not touch the sides of the oven and that it is smooth.

For more information about cooking with a microwave oven; contact your local county Extension office.