The microwave oven is convenient because it can cook, reheat and defrost various dishes very quickly. However, this technique needs careful maintenance. Owners of the device need to pay special attention to choosing the right cookware. Can I put iron utensils or dishes in foil in the microwave? This issue requires detailed study.
Metal and Microwave
It is strictly forbidden to put iron dishes in the microwave. The reflective properties of the metal surface block the passage of microwaves through the walls of the container, which is the cause of the electrical discharge. If the blow is too strong, the furnace mechanism will become unusable. In the most severe cases, an explosion may even occur, as the built-in magnetron will not cope with the load.
When understanding whether it is possible to put iron dishes in the microwave, the owners of the stove must keep in mind that not only plates and bowls cannot be used. It is also necessary to keep track ofso that metal spoons, forks, knives do not get inside.
To the question: "Can I put iron dishes in the microwave?" the answer is unequivocal: "No." Even plates and cups with gold or silver rims lead to sparks. A discharge of this magnitude cannot damage the oven itself, but it will leave unsightly dark spots on the plates.
Microwave and foil dishes
It is forbidden to put food wrapped in foil: this also leads to a similar result. Microwave owners should be especially careful and careful when heating semi-finished products, such as frozen pizza: such food is often packed in aluminum foil. Remove the packaging before microwaving the treat.
In some cases, foil is necessary for cooking to prevent burning of individual parts. For such recipes, there is a special foil designed for the microwave. Such packaging is heat-resistant, its composition differs from ordinary aluminum, therefore it is capable of transmitting microwaves. Often there is perforation in such foil.
It is not recommended to use ordinary food-grade aluminum foil instead of a special one. In addition to sparking, there is another danger: aluminum does not have sufficient heat resistance, therefore, under the influence of waves, the package interacts with food. The content of metal in food leads to diseases of the liver, kidneys, nervous system. If special foil is not available, you can use parchment paper or a baking sleeve.
Is it possible to turn on an empty microwave?
Starting heating in an empty oven is also strictly not recommended. In this case, the microwaves are directed directly into the magnetron, resulting in breakdown of the part. In addition, waves are reflected from internal surfaces and exit through the glass door of the oven. It is not safe for people who are nearby.
Proper microwave dishes
How to choose dishes for the microwave and not make a mistake? Any containers made of heat-resistant glass and heat-resistant plastic are suitable for microwave. Ordinary ceramic cups and plates can also be used to heat food, but cooking in them is still not recommended: the walls can burst from excessive heating and fragments will fall into the food. For the convenience of users, there are special disposable forms made of thick pressed paper. Plastic food storage containers usually have a label that indicates whether the container can be heated in the oven.
Dishes used in the oven must be clean, free of greasy splashes or soot. When heated, the dirt can smoke, which will certainly spoil the quality of the food. You also need to carefully monitor the cleanliness of the internal walls of the microwave in order to maximize the period of its operation. Regularly remove plaque from the inner walls, after disconnecting the device from the power supply. To soften the most stubborn dirt, pour water into a large container, add 20 grams of baking soda and 20 ml of table vinegar. Place the liquid inside the microwave and boil for 3-5 minutes. After that, you can proceed directly to cleaning.
Now you know if you can put iron dishes in the microwave. By ditching metal in favor of ceramics, porcelain and plastic, you will extend the life of your microwave.