Invention of the microwave happened by chance when an American engineer noticed that microwaves could be used to heat food. Microwaves were produced back in Soviet times on the basis of Japanese magnetrons, and now the production of this kitchen appliances reached its zenith. Now they are controlled using a smartphone and cook even if you are not at home. The user’s only task is to remember to put food inside before leaving and choose the right one for it. dishes . Not all kitchen utensils are suitable for microwaves. Therefore, dishes for the microwave, how to choose, photos, all this will be discussed in our article.
How to choose dishes for the microwave
In progress household appliances Microwaves with a frequency of 2450 MHz are used. This indicator was not set by chance, but by international agreement in order not to interfere with the operation of radars and satellites. What kind of dishes are used for the microwave? First, let's define a list of utensils that are not suitable for use in microwave oven.
Dishes that are not suitable for the microwave oven
Microwave-safe cookware
Dishes for the microwave: how to choose, which is better, safer? These questions are asked by many users who have just acquired equipment or want to protect their family members. Below is a list of utensils that can be used in any microwave without fear.
- Heat resistant glass . It is a hardened fireproof material that is also suitable for a conventional microwave. The walls of such kitchen utensils are quite thick, so they practically do not heat up. Thin, fragile glass is not suitable for use in microwaves, as it risks breaking when interacting with hot food.
- Porcelain . Almost any type of porcelain can be used in the microwave, with the exception of dishes with “gilding”.
- Ceramics , covered with glaze. If the surface of the kitchen utensil is chipped or cracked, do not risk using it. If the dishes are covered with glaze, it is recommended not only for heating, but also for cooking. For example, cooking scrambled eggs will turn out no worse than in a frying pan, and without a drop of oil. The only negative is that it gets very hot and you can get burned, so you will have to use an oven mitt.
- Glass ceramics. A fairly common material that combines the stability of glass and the beauty of ceramics, in tandem providing the best operational properties. Suitable for reheating and cooking.
- Paper products. They are suitable for short-term use in the microwave (for heating). Ready-made meals from the supermarket can be reheated in the microwave.
- Cotton/paper napkins. Flour products are often wrapped in them for heating. Cupcakes wrapped in a napkin will not be dry while heating.
- Plastic containers. They are available in a wide range, which is why consumers love them so much. The variety of shapes and sizes is not the only advantage, plastic container It is used not only for heating, but also for freezing and storing food. No other material allows such treatment. But plastic is only good for heating. It is impossible to cook dishes in such dishes, especially those containing fat or sugar (heated to high temperatures).
- Heat-resistant film. A special film is produced that does not deteriorate or melt when exposed to microwaves. It creates a sauna effect for a heated dish and enhances the effect, keeping food hot for a long time.
- Silicone forms. Products from polymer materials Microwave safe. Cupcakes, cakes and muffins are the main dishes that are prepared using silicone molds.
Microwave dish shape
Not only the material plays a role, the shape is also important for uniform and proper preparation dishes. A suitable shape is an oval or cylinder; in such dishes, food is cooked evenly on all sides. Despite the popular square and rectangular shapes, the food in them is not prepared in the best way, drying out in the corners.
For speed and uniformity of cooking, it is recommended to give preference to dishes with low walls, but with a wide bottom.
A microwave is not just a kitchen appliance for bachelors; it can do much more than just heat up food. And given the diversity modern models You can count on an exhaustive list of tasks. The combination of a microwave and the right dishes will allow you to forget about other kitchen appliances. Different products require different dishes:
- dishes that expand upward: pasta, cereals. When heating soup in the microwave, the bubbles concentrate at the bottom of the container and can come out at any time, so the plate must have a margin of height for the walls.
- cylindrical shape: muffins and cakes require an oblong shape with high sides, as they “fit” during cooking.
- dishes with sides medium height: vegetables fruits. During heat treatment, vegetables and fruits do not increase in size, but, on the contrary, decrease, releasing juice, which partially evaporates.
Do you need a lid?
Most microwaveable kitchen appliances are sold without a lid, especially large baking containers and meat dishes. Small containers or clay products are equipped with lids. When planning to use the microwave as your main kitchen assistant, we recommend getting a lid that prevents food from drying out. As a result, the taste of the dishes is tender and aromatic.
A lid will be needed for liquid dishes so that some of them do not evaporate during cooking. When cooking meat, you definitely need a lid if you don’t want to splash the walls of your household appliances. As a last resort, use a plate or heat-resistant film for the microwave. 
Utensils specifically designed for use in the microwave
The container, which is designed specifically for this type of kitchen appliances, has special markings on the packaging; it is suitable for operation in wave, convection and grill modes.
The optimal material is white glass, which can withstand temperatures from -40 to +300 degrees. Along with white, transparent heat-resistant glass (less expensive) is used. Glass ceramics, which can withstand temperatures up to +900 degrees, are considered a good option for long-term cooking. No less popular is heat-resistant plastic for preparing and storing dishes in the refrigerator/freezer; you can even eat from such containers. 
So that the cooking process is successful and effective. pay attention to following tips:
— Size of dishes: the smaller the better. Use a container that is the right size, otherwise the cooking process will be delayed. How smaller size shape, the faster the food will cook.
— Uniformity of cooking depends on the shape. Give preference to round or oval containers.
— Use the lid as needed. To prepare a dish, a lid is required (it preserves the juice of the food and does not dry it out). To defrost, the container must be open.
— Use a tall container for baking. As a result of cooking, any flour products based on yeast, kefir, sour milk, soda “fit”, increasing in size.
— When preparing soup, use a lid with holes to drain condensation.
— It is not recommended to cover scrambled eggs with a lid; you need to pierce the eggs in advance so that they do not explode at the wrong moment and stain the inside of the equipment. By the way, cooking scrambled eggs in the microwave takes a minimum of time (1-2 minutes).
- Size. It is important that the walls of the container do not touch the walls of the microwave oven.
— For ideal heating, arrange food correctly. The center of the dish tends to be the worst cooked, so the edges can end up dry and the center undercooked. If possible, it is recommended to move the food closer to the edges of the dish.
ADVICE! How to check if a dish is microwave safe? Take a glass of water room temperature. Place it in a bowl and turn on the equipment for 60 seconds at maximum power. Then check: the water should heat up, but the dishes should not. If the container is very hot, it is not suitable for use in the microwave.
In the microwave they prepare a tender omelet, a fluffy cupcake, dry fruits, and bring stale bread, crackers, and chips back to life. But it is recommended to cook only in special dishes for these household appliances, in order to protect not only them from possible breakdowns, but also to protect yourself and your health.
The microwave has burst into life Russian citizens in the early 90s and during this time she managed to live in almost every apartment. Of course, it is more practical and easy to use than a traditional stove or oven. It quickly heats up, defrosts and even cooks. However, research and human experience show that not everything is so easy and simple. It turns out that many products simply cannot be exposed heat treatment in the microwave and not every dish can be used as a heating container.
Aluminium foil
If you don't want to put on a fire show in your microwave and damage it, don't reheat food in aluminum foil. Of course, this may not happen, but there is still a risk. Also, don’t forget about one more insidious feature. metal sheet. When exposed to microwaves, the foil becomes chemical reaction with food, and as a result, aluminum ends up in your dish, and later in your body. And despite the fact that this metal is not a carcinogen, like mercury or lead, for example, it can accumulate in the body and provoke many unpleasant diseases.
Food containers
Very often, food is delivered from restaurants in containers that are made using various metals. Therefore, before using them as containers for heating in the microwave, re-read about the consequences of using aluminum foil in a microwave oven. And remember: you cannot heat them in them, even if the container has small metal inclusions, such as a handle.
Dry sponges
If you are afraid of germs on your dish sponge and want to get rid of them using the microwave, go for it. Just remember that you absolutely cannot put a dry sponge in there, as it may catch fire. Therefore, before deleting pests In this way, moisten it with water.
Fresh egg
Some people cook scrambled eggs directly in the microwave, especially those who have to have breakfast at work. Convenient and fast. What happens if you cook an egg in its shell in it? For the sake of experimentation, of course, you can try, but it’s better not to risk it. Under the influence of microwaves, steam will appear inside the shell, which will have nowhere to go, and as a result the egg will simply explode. Cleaning up the consequences of this lawlessness will no longer be a joy.
Sinks
The same story applies to mussels, oysters and other shellfish. Since their shells contain no a large number of air, they can also burst, like eggs. When cooking closed clams, it is best to use a traditional oven.
Closed bottles or sealed jars
Never put tightly sealed foods in the microwave, as there is a high risk of them exploding. Some young parents forget and put closed jars of baby puree in it. As a result, the child is hungry and the mother has more household chores. Avoid such consequences by unscrewing the caps.
Hot pepper
If you need to reheat a dish containing hot peppers, do it in a frying pan or in the oven. Capsaicin, which is contained in peppers, evaporates when exposed to microwaves, and the resulting steam is very harmful. And when you open the microwave door, you will feel this chemical release. And it also happens that even the juice from this spicy dish can accidentally get into your eyes. The effect is the same as pepper spray.
Vintage tableware
You inherited from your great-grandmother a sideboard with all its contents: beautiful vintage plates, mugs, saucers, etc. It’s better to leave them there for beauty; you’re unlikely to need them in everyday life. And even more so - for using them in a microwave oven. In the last century, some types of plates were made with lead or other heavy metals, which, when heated, can leach into food and cause poisoning. Use modern utensils instead.
Frozen meat
Are you planning to cook baked meat for dinner, but the product is frozen? Only a microwave can defrost it quickly. But it is better not to use it for this matter. You'll just ruin the product. As a rule, meat in the microwave defrosts only at the edges, while the inside and center remain cold. In addition, uneven heat distribution can contribute to rapid reproduction bacteria, as a result of which consuming this product will be simply dangerous. Most the best option defrosting meat - leave it in the refrigerator for a certain time.
Plastic containers
Very often you have heard or read that you should never put it in the microwave. plastic container. And why all? It turns out that many types of plastic contain estrogen-like substances that leach into food when exposed to microwaves. So if you care about your health, don't do this.
Thermal mug
Warming a thermos in the microwave is nonsense. But such stories still happen. Therefore, we warn you - do not heat it. Thermo mugs are made from of stainless steel. This means that they are metal and therefore not microwave safe.
Paper bags
Popcorn, buns, pies that are packed in paper, heat without it. This way you will protect yourself from a possible fire and from the release of unpleasant toxic substances that can occur when placing paper bags in the microwave.
Blue cheese
A piece of hot classic cheese, freshly melted in the microwave, is simply delicious. The same cannot be said about its brother, blue cheese. When you place such a product in the oven, you will get an incomprehensible viscous mass and, most importantly, a sickening moldy smell. Eat it better finished form, don't experiment.
19.07.2013 30.04.2016 by gotovlyu v mikrovolnovke
The most main feature utensils for microwave ovens - the ability to transmit electromagnetic waves.
In which you can cook in the microwave:
- made of plastic;
- paper;
- glass;
- ceramics, porcelain, faience.
Which can't bet:
- metal, including enameled iron;
- with metal decor, for example, porcelain with gilding.
After purchasing an appliance, it is not always necessary to run to the store to buy pots, baking trays, or a dish especially for it. Look at what you already have and what will work. However, there is some nuance here. Even if you suitable material, should be checked.
Have you noticed this strange thing - the microwave heats the dishes and not the food, why does this happen? The container, of course, can and should heat up to some extent, but not more than the contents. If the opposite happens, then it contains metal oxides that absorb part (sometimes more) of the microwaves. Can be used, but not recommended, find a more suitable one. How to check?
Heat the empty container at maximum for 20-30 seconds. Cold - excellent, suits everything 100. A little warm - also good. If it is very hot, it is better to set it aside, as it will take more time to warm up or cook in it, which will lead to unnecessary costs for electricity.
What dishes are suitable for the microwave?
Having selected everything available that is allowed to be used in the microwave and assessed your needs, especially if you not only reheat, but also cook in the oven, go shopping.
Icon on dishes
How to choose which one can be used in the microwave? Pay attention to the one made from the required material, and then look at the markings. If there is a corresponding icon, feel free to take it. Or consult the seller. If you are not sure, it is better not to buy, look for one in which you are sure.
And shape matters
It is better to use oval or cylindrical. And although there are square and rectangular ones specifically for the microwave, but, as practice shows, cooking in such is fraught with drying out (burning) in the corners, since energy is concentrated here.
Cooking in an oven always involves small volumes, so choose not deep, but rather wide containers. This is also good for uniform cooking.
But for cereals and pasta it is better to use a large, roomy one with an extension towards the top.
For baking, it is better to have portioned or tall ones, since baked goods in the microwave rise much higher compared to the oven.
Microwave cookware: glass
Can you put glass in the microwave? Certainly. This is not only the most popular, but also the best. It includes both glassy ceramics and glass ceramics. Glass perfectly transmits waves, so cooking occurs evenly and in minimal time. In addition, you can see what is happening with the products. So, if you decide to buy a new one, then opt for glass.
Advice: Do not use thin glass or crystal products; pay attention to the presence of cracks, chips, and bubbles to avoid their splitting.
Can ceramic dishes be placed in the microwave? Porcelain and faience
Clay is very convenient for cooking in the oven. It heats up minimally if there are no specific additives, so it is good to use as a portion, in which it is cooked and served.
Monitor the condition of the glaze on the ceramic; it should not be cracked. When washing, water gets into them, which, when heated in the oven, can lead to splitting. And do not wet the ceramic container with water, even if you cook without liquid.
Thin porcelain without metal decoration is used mainly for heating and serving. Just keep in mind that it becomes hot from the heated product, so when taking it out, use oven mitts.
Porcelain is not suitable for " hot air" and "grill", and their combinations.
Plastic
Not every plastic / plastic dishes. The one that tolerates high temperatures (140-250 degrees) is allowed. Don't forget to look at the labeling.
Keep in mind that products made of polyamide plastic and polypropylene are allowed, but PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and polystyrene are not allowed, and be careful with polyethylene containers.
Plastic containers are not suitable for cooking recipes that contain fat and sugar that are heated to temperatures that cause the plastic to melt.
Disposable and paper
Won't fit disposable tableware, made of plastic. It is usually made with very thin walls, so when exposed to high temperatures it begins to deform. Only heat-resistant ones can be used. Waxed cardboard is also not suitable.
Those who buy semi-finished products are well acquainted with paper (including cardboard) with a heat-resistant coating for microwaves. Basically, ready-made products are sold in such containers, which only need to be defrosted or reheated.
Advice: check, especially solid bags, for the presence of an aluminum layer, which, when heated, will cause the paper to burn and a fire is guaranteed.
Is silicone, wood suitable?
The silicone mold is suitable for the microwave, you can use it to make beautiful pastries, easy and simple to bake and stew.
Hardly anyone will cook in a wooden one, and reheating... is not recommended by some manufacturers due to the danger of charring. If possible, then for a short time, for example, for cooking and not dealing with foods containing large amounts of sugar and fat. Impact high temperature will lead to gradual drying of wooden products.
Separately, it is worth mentioning about bamboo. Manufacturers also do not recommend putting it in the microwave. To know for sure, look at the labeling. If there are no corresponding icons, do not take risks.
What to fry in
In special ceramic forms (pans). The special composition of the material of the inner layer contributes to the achievement of the frying effect.
What else is needed
These are, of course, not dishes, but necessary things:
- . It is needed when there is no lid. Special holes regulate steam exchange. If they are not there, then you need to make several punctures and you can use them;
- lid. Very comfortable and necessary thing. It will be useful for the cooking process, where you need to retain moisture and prevent food and fat from splashing, which will make cleaning much easier;
The lid can be either special or improvised, from the same special foil for the microwave or cardboard disposable plate, and also suitable as a lid: a sheet of clean white paper, a porcelain plate or saucer. Any lid must have a hole; pierce it or place a wooden stick;
- You can also safely use bags (sleeves) for baking. Just don't fix it metal parts(clothespins, clamps), take rubber rings, special clamps or duct tape.
It is also a stylish accessory
Like any other, a microwave oven must be not only practical, but also beautiful. Fortunately, today manufacturers produce kits that will not be difficult to match to the style and interior of the kitchen, and not just focus on which one is suitable.
All kinds of vegetable pots, special forms for omelettes, portion containers of all colors and shades - practical and effective for all occasions.
Good day to all visitors to my blog. Today I want to talk about what dishes can be used in the microwave. It turns out that in the wrong container, food takes longer to cook and heats up poorly. And it can also be harmful to health. Yes, yes, it is dishes that can harm our body. And not microwaves, which is what opponents of microwave ovens are so actively trying to prove.
To figure out which containers to use, let’s remember how microwaves work. As you know, dishes in a microwave oven are heated by microwaves. This electromagnetic radiation, which causes dipole food molecules to move. Move quickly and a lot. This creates friction and heats up the food. I have already described this in detail in an article about the principle of operation of a microwave oven.
To heat food, as well as for cooking, containers must be heat-resistant. If you have fireproof cookware, that's even better. Heat-resistant dishes and containers can be heated up to 140˚C. This is enough for a regular microwave. It heats food to the boiling point of water - 100 ˚С. Containers made of fireproof materials can heat up to 300˚C.
Heat-resistant cookware can be:
- glass;
- porcelain;
- ceramic;
- plastic;
- paper;
- silicone;
- made of thin foam.
Heat-resistant containers made of these materials are used in microwave ovens. Mode – microwaves only. Plastic boats must have a corresponding icon.
No less important parameter Microwave cookware is the size as well as the shape. It is better to choose a small height for the containers. This will allow you to cook the product faster. If you are going to cook cereals or pasta, there should be plenty of capacity in the container. This is due to the peculiarity of heating liquids by microwaves. When the water boils, its bubbles remain at the bottom for some time. After a certain time, the water may splash out. If you choose a bowl that flares upward, this will not happen. The water won't rise as quickly.
Microwave ovens are an integral part modern kitchen. Quick cooking and heating food, effective defrosting of food, the ability to cook interesting dishes all this ensured great success. It’s true that you should know all the weaknesses and safety standards for working with a microwave oven, and most importantly, understand what utensils can and cannot be used.
Microwave radiation is a rather complex topic, there is serious debate about it, and constant research is being carried out. Naturally, the average person has no less questions, but they are related solely to their own benefit and ease of use.
What causes food to heat up?
Many people know that it is strictly forbidden to place certain types of dishes and products in a microwave oven. This can lead not only to malfunction of the device, but also to very unpleasant consequences, including fire.
Why is this happening? The reason lies in the way microwaves work. At its core, microwave radiation implies an impact on the molecular basis, with a change in the polarity of the molecules. High-frequency microwaves cause charges to quickly change from plus to minus and back again, at such a speed that the particles begin to heat up. This principle works with most elements contained in food: sugar, fats and, of course, any liquid.
On the other hand, there are materials that reflect microwave radiation, for example, metal. Being a conductor of energy, iron does not adapt to microwaves, directing them back to the emitter. Accordingly, it begins to warm itself. The mechanism overheats and a fire may occur.
What kind of cookware can be used
Let's return to the microwave and ceramic dishes. It's no secret that any pottery product is a dielectric. Ceramic cookware is not capable of passing current, but has another weakness. The problem is that most modern ceramics do not undergo the firing process required by technology and their quality leaves much to be desired.
During the shaping and firing of pottery, internal cavities with residual moisture may appear. Moreover, she herself ceramic tableware almost always has microcracks that occur due to various impacts during transportation, as well as during operation. Cracks that are not noticeable at first begin to gradually grow under thermal influences.
What can happen in a microwave? Clay is extremely resistant to temperatures, but sudden overheating can connect all the microcracks into a continuous split. If ceramic dishes contained even a hundredth of moisture inside the material, under the influence of microwave radiation the water will expand and break the container.
