How to Use a Convection Microwave Oven

The convection oven is a nice option for cooking, baking, broiling and even defrosting. For those who need extra cooking facilities, a convection oven can be handy. For those who would like an alternative to heating up the oven on a regular basis, many meals can be tastily prepared in the convection oven. Other benefits include: quick cooking times and minimal space needed. Many who have chosen to try convection microwave ovens found them to be a positive purchase.

Instructions

1. Reheat leftovers, beverages and cook frozen dinners by following the same methods used in traditional microwave ovens. Cooking time may vary due to higher wattages.

2. Steam items in the microwave convection oven by putting them in a microwave-safe container. Add a few tablespoons of water and cover the food with plastic wrap (puncture a few holes in the wrap to allow steam to escape). Start by cooking for a few minutes and adjust by adding more time if needed. To add more flavor to the dish, replace water with wine or lemon juice.

3. Convert any favorite recipes used in a basic oven by decreasing the cooking temperature by 25 degrees. Cooking time may also vary, and should typically take 1/3 less total time. Always watch the foods, initially, until you are familiar with your microwave convection oven.

4. Cut fish such as flounder, bass and sole (salmon and tuna are better broiled), into thin pieces. Place it in a heat-safe dish. Add wine or beer, garlic and herbs to taste. Lemon slices may also give fish a nice flavor. Cover it with plastic wrap and vent the container for steam cooking. Heat for a minimum of 6 minutes, adjusting cooking times as needed.

5. Bake items such as cookies, casseroles and meals in shallow pans in the microwave convection oven. For best results stray from dishes with high sides, and containers with lids, as these items may not heat well in the microwave convection oven. Note, heat must circulate well inside the oven for efficient cooking.

Tips & Warnings

• Always Preheat the oven before cooking. Because cooking times vary based on the amount of food placed in the oven, allow more time for larger dishes.

Resources

• Consumer Guide to Microwave Convection Ovens