Here are a few tips to help you make the best use of your microwave.

• Before using any utensil for the first time, carry out this simple test to ascertain whether it is microwave safe. Fill the vessel with approximately 200ml of water and microwave on HIGH for 2 minutes. If the utensil gets too warm, it should not be used. The water should get heated without heating the vessel.
• To reheat bread or chappatis without drying them out, wrap them in paper towels for better results.
• Keep the interior of the oven clean as small specks of food particles inside can reduce its efficiency.
• To defrost frozen vegetables, pierce the bag or loosen the container slightly. Defrosting normally takes 4 to 6 minutes.
• Do not cook eggs with shells as they explode.
• The microwave should never be used empty, without any food in it, as this could cause damage.
• Dishes must be ½ or ¾ filled depending on the liquid content of the food. If the dish is too small, the food will boil over and if the dish is too large the thick curry will spread out and overcook.
• Liquids in bottles should not be heated with lids closed.
• Warm a lemon for about 25 to 40 seconds on HIGH. Allow the fruit to stand for a minute before squeezing it. This makes the fruit yield more juice.
• Half cup of almonds blanched with ¼ cup of water on a HIGH of 3 minutes will facilitate easy peeling of the skin. Same can be done with Pistachios.