Microwave Cookery

Question 1

how is microwave cookery different from conventional cooking methods

Answer 1

it requires no fire or heat

Question 2

what is emitted in a microwave

Answer 2

ultra-high frequency energy is emitted by electromagnetic waves originating from the magnetron

Question 3

what happens when food is cooked by microwaves

Answer 3

• the molecules of water in the food are disturbed and they are stirred up to vibrate violently
• these vibrations produce friction which releases heat energy
• the heat energy is conducted by the heated food particles to the centre of the food

Question 4

what affects cooking time

Answer 4

• the more water present in food, the quicker it will cook

- the denser the food, the longer it will cook

Question 5

what happens to substances that do not contain water

Answer 5

they fail to absorb microwave energy and can therefore be used as containers

• metal reflects microwaves and cannot be used in a microwave oven

Question 6

advantages of microwaves

Answer 6

1. allow food to be cooked or reheated in a very short amount of time
2. less electricity is used
3. labour saving as foods can be served in the same dish that they were cooked in
4. food doesn’t lose its original flavour, nutrient value or shape
5. leftover foods which are heated will taste fresh

Question 7

disadvantages of microwaves

Answer 7

1. microwaves are much more expensive than ordinary ovens
2. cooking times must be carefully controlled to prevent overcooking or undercooking
3. food may taste different because it does not brown or develop crispiness