6 December
National Microwave Oven Day, held on December 6, celebrates the incredible appliance that has transformed kitchens worldwide.
This day highlights the microwave’s role in making cooking faster and more convenient. The microwave oven is a staple in many households, from reheating leftovers to preparing full meals. This special day recognizes microwave ovens’ convenience and versatility to everyday life.
Initially, microwave ovens were large and expensive, but technological advancements made them more affordable and compact over time. Its ability to save time and effort in meal preparation has made it an essential tool for busy families, students, and professionals alike.
And by the 1970s, they had become common household appliances, significantly changing how people prepared and cooked food. Easier and quicker – just all round more efficient if time is prime the factor.
Today especially highlights the microwave’s role in modern culinary practices, from quick reheating to cooking complete meals. A kitchen make-over for all cooks!
But beware, there’s a few no nos when coking in a microwave oven: Don’t ever cook anything made of or containing steel, iron, copper or other hard metals – these should never go in your microwave.
Anyways, get home, raid the freezer and fire up your trusty microwave; Dinner is served. Quick eh!?
Fun Fact about microwave ovens (1):
The microwave oven was invented by accident (as so many inventions have been). While testing magnetrons (the vacuum tubes that produce microwave radiation) in 1945, engineer Percy Spencer noticed that the candy bar in his pocket had started melting. After testing out other foods, including popcorn kernels (more on that later), Percy's discovery was official: Microwave radiation could indeed cook food. The invention was patented soon after. His discovery was later converted to domestic use in 1967.
Fun Fact about microwave ovens (2):
Ice doesn't melt quickly in a microwave because the rigid structure of ice, held together by strong hydrogen bonds, prevents its water molecules from rotating freely, which is how microwaves heat food.
Fun Fact about microwave ovens (3):
Sanyo once hired Dynasty diva/actor Joan Collins to act like she had no idea what cooking was in a TV commercial for its microwave. "It's so amazing, I almost feel the urge to cook," the diamond-adorned actor says at the end of the spot: “I’m sure it will pass."
Fun Fact about microwave oven (4):
Turns out those drab microwaved meals that fliers are always complaining about haven't ever been inside a microwave at all. In most cases airlines aren't allowed to use microwaves at 36,000 feet, and instead reheat pre-cooked food using convection ovens that blow hot, dry air over the food. Still tastes “tres ordinaire!”
"Everything for an easier life."
"Popty ping" is the Welsh word for microwave, but I'm pretty sure it's just the sound it makes when it's working correctly.
"Smart ideas for your home."
“Just nuke it for 60 seconds!”
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