Why do microwaves heat unevenly?
“Microwaves are absorbed from the outside in,” Anantheswaran says. “That heat is absorbed differently depending on the size, shape and composition of the food.” He says microwave ovens get the most even heating with small cylindrical or spherical foods, such as hot dogs or potatoes. Rectangular foods, such as packaged dinners, may heat less evenly because the microwaves are hitting the top and the sides, causing the corners to overcook. • What role does the glass platform play in the cooking process? Removable glass trays and turntables are easy to clean. Carousel platforms allow more even heating as the food rotates within the oven. They also lift the food to allow microwaves to penetrate from below, Daniel explains. • Why does my microwave oven cook meats to a tougher consistency? “In most cases meat loses tenderness in a microwave from being cooked too rapidly.” Anantheswaran says. “Cooking is a series of chemical reactions, and we have to allow time for each reaction to be complete
