The Microwave: Defrosting, Reheating, and Space-Saving Cooking
Defrosting, reheating, and cooking are quick and easy with this appliance. The microwave is the most compact of all kitchen appliances. We introduce it to you here, along with our top-selling models.
reading time: approx. 2 minutes
Do you want to heat up food quickly, easily defrost frozen items, or cook in a small kitchen while saving space? If so, a compact microwave is an indispensable kitchen helper for you! This small appliance is exceptionally compact and can simply be placed on your countertop or in an appliance cabinet. When combined with features like convection, a grill, or steam injection (such as in a microwave-oven combo), it becomes a versatile appliance that allows you to prepare a wide range of recipes quickly and easily. Here in our magazine, we cover the different types available and what you should look for before buying a microwave!
Does your kitchen need a microwave, too – and if so, which one?
We would be happy to provide personal advice and work with you to determine whether a microwave is right for your kitchen and which model would best suit your needs.
The Microwave – A Handy Kitchen Aid for Defrosting, Heating, and Cooking
The function of microwave ovens was discovered by chance in the mid-1940s. At the time, Percy Spencer was conducting research for an American defense contractor—working, among other things, on an experiment involving a magnetron. One day, a chocolate bar in his pocket suddenly melted. The researcher quickly realized that the cause was the microwaves emitted by the magnetron.
Nowadays, we are no longer particularly surprised by a chocolate bar melting due to microwave radiation. After all, the microwave has long since become a fixture in our kitchens—a compact, practical appliance for defrosting, heating, and cooking all kinds of food.
✓ Reheating
✓ Defrosting
✓ Cooking small portions
✓ Quick preparation
Microwave types
Microwaves come in different models and types. The difference starts with the terminology alone. They are also called microwave ovens, microwave stoves or simply microwave devices. What they all have in common is that they heat food using radiation and thus change its biochemistry. This is how frozen food is defrosted, for example. Microwave types are then fundamentally differentiated based on how they are installed.
- Freestanding microwave: Affordable, can be placed anywhere, takes up counter space, good for occasional use
- Built-in microwave: More expensive, permanently integrated into the kitchen, not easily replaced
- Combi-microwave: Combines microwave with oven and/or steam functions, larger and more expensive, offers many possibilities
The freestanding microwave / tabletop microwave
The freestanding microwave is freestanding and can be placed flexibly on the worktop or elsewhere in the kitchen. This is a compact device that is extremely practical for cooking and baking. In addition, freestanding microwaves are relatively inexpensive to purchase and can also be quickly replaced.
The built-in microwave
In contrast to the freestanding microwave, the built-in microwave is installed in the kitchen cupboard. Similar to an oven. However, it does not matter where or at what height it is located. Microwaves can be installed in the upper cupboard, as well as in the lower cupboard and tall cupboard. It is also possible to install the microwave under the counter.
The microwave oven
The third type of microwave is the combo microwave. These practical 2-in-1 kitchen appliances combine two functions. For example, there are Ovens with microwaves or Steamers with integrated microwaves. The biggest advantage is the space-saving installation and the low price. After all, you only have to buy one device and place it in the kitchen. You also benefit from the additional functions when you buy combo ovens with an integrated microwave function. The main disadvantage is that you can only use one device at a time. Unfortunately, cooking in the oven and defrosting something in the microwave at the same time does not work if the two devices are combined.
What size should a microwave be?
The right microwave size depends on the type you choose (built-in or freestanding?), how much space is available in your kitchen, and how you intend to use the microwave. Our recommendations:
- Volume: approx. 20–25 liters for about 2 people; 35 liters or more for larger quantities
- Niche size: usually 60 cm wide – matching a standard 60 cm kitchen cabinet; up to 45 cm high and 40 cm deep.
Our tip: In addition to the correct niche dimensions, pay attention to ease of use and the door opening. Having a little more space in front of and next to the microwave makes everyday operation easier.
Microwave accessories
A microwave alone does not make a perfect kitchen appliance. For that, you need the right microwave accessories. For example, a turntable on which the food is evenly rotated and cooked inside the oven. Or a cover as a splash guard. There is also special cookware for microwaves. Baking trays, baking pans, cups, plates or bowls are sometimes produced specifically for use in the microwave.
Microwave bestsellers from our shop
Now let's get to our microwave test and the bestsellers from our shop. Three brands of microwaves impress us both in terms of appearance and function.
The Miele microwave
The Miele microwave is particularly impressive with its combination operation and the resulting wide range of options. Microwaves with crisp are part of the range, as are Miele combi steamers and Miele ovens with integrated microwave function. Some models also have an integrated quartz grill. Like the Miele M 224 SC built-in microwave. You can use it to gratinate food, but also roast or grill it. The microwave can therefore be used both for simply heating up food and for the complex preparation of roast meat, vegetable casseroles or scampi.
The Bauknecht microwave
The Bauknecht brand has established itself as a true specialist for microwaves. It offers real haute cuisine for the home, especially with the SupremeChef microwave! Supreme Chef is a practical, small combi microwave with grill and hot air. Of course, it has all the functions you would expect from a small kitchen appliance: warming up, grilling, baking, steaming and roasting. Bauknecht microwaves also come with a crisp function. The Bauknecht microwave also has programs for yoghurt, defrosting bread, automatic cleaning, letting dough rise and much more.
Smeg Microwave
Another highlight is the Smeg combi-microwave, a compact countertop microwave with a built-in oven function.
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