Microwave - Food Is Tough, Dry, or Overcooked / Undercooked

If the food is cooked too long or at a power level higher than what is recommended, the food can dry out. If allowed to cook too long, it can even ignite in some cases.

 

• Use the recommended cooking time from the directions or the recipe and check the food at the minimum time. Allow for stand time to finish cooking.
• Some microwave recipes require the food to be stirred turned or rotated midway through the cooking time. Make sure that the directions are followed closely.
• Microwave recipes assume refrigerator temperatures for items normally refrigerated and room temperature for others. If the food starts to cook at a temperature warmer than normal, the cooking time must be shortened.
• If a smaller amount of food than what is recommended in the recipe is used, the cooking time must be shortened to prevent overcooking.
• For a less tender cut of meat use moisture (water, sauce, gravy, etc.) while cooking. Use medium-low power setting, and extend the cooking time so that the meat will tenderize while cooking.

 

 

 

When some foods overcook while the rest undercooks:

 

• Incorrect arrangement of food in container is one cause of this. Place larger, thicker pieces toward outside of container and smaller, thinner pieces toward the center.
• Place single items in center. Arrange several items in a circular arrangement around center.
• In some cases rotate the dish, stir if appropriate or cover if appropriate. (Trapped steam and heat helps to promote even cooking.) Or lower power level and extend cooking time.
• Make sure ingredients are well mixed/blended.

 

 

 

When some foods overcook while the rest undercooks:

 

• Use a ring-shaped or round container, if possible. Ring-shaped containers have no corners or center and result in faster, more even cooking. Corners in square or oblong containers absorb microwave energy from four directions: two sides, bottom and top. The sides absorb energy from three directions: side, bottom and top. The center absorbs energy from only two directions: bottom and top.
• If the microwave requires a glass tray on the floor be sure and use it.
• Be sure food is completely defrosted before cooking.