Re: Chow at Your House, Wednesday Night, 3/26/2025?

On 3/28/2025 1:05 PM, Jill McQuown wrote:

Back in the 1980's, microwaves had functionality than the ones these days.  I had one that came with a probe thermometer for cooking meats to temperature, rather than trying to figure out cook time and power levels.  It automatically adjusted the power settings based on the desired internal temperature.  So yes, you could use one to cook a roast. :)
 I made microwave lasagna in it that was fantastic.  Didn't have to cook the noodles ahead of time (this was in the days before "no-cook" lasagna noodles existed, which, BTW, I've never tried.)  There was enough liquid in the sauce to cook the noodles in the covered glass 13X9 baking dish. That doesn't work with microwaves these days because it seems they all have smaller inside space and turntables.  They're designed for people to reheat a plate of food.  Not for actual cooking.  I still wouldn't reheat a steak in it, but it likely can be done.
 Jill

Yes, our first one had the probe.  It was very handy.
I suspect price is more important than function to many buyers,  They just stick things in and push the button on high power.
Power settings and standing time are important to know for best results.
This morning, I reheated a couple of fried sausage patties, put them on the plate and hit 30 seconds and they were fine.  Reheating a platter of food though, It is usually about 2 minutes and I never go over 50% power.