Many of you have questions on cooking times - here is the info sent by Sistema
Thanks for considering purchasing a Sistema product! The reason cooking times were not included was due to the vast range of microwaves out there. Also, the cooking times depend on how big (or small) - the pieces are when vegetables are cut, and although it sounds silly, how cold fish is when defrosted – i.e. full defrosted or to room temperature, etc.
Below are some guidelines:
• Water level should be just below the base of the colander so the food is not sitting in the water. Whenever you stop the microwave to monitor cooking progress, check the water level and top up if necessary.
• Thick skinned, whole foods like potatoes, squash and tomatoes trap steam during cooking, so if cooking these whole, pierce the skins before cooking to allow steam to escape.
• If you are cooking a variety of vegetables, arrange ‘tougher’ ones, like carrots, cauliflower, potato etc, towards the outside, and more tender ones like peas, mushroom, capsicum etc in the centre so they finish cooking at the same time.
• To ensure foods cooks fully and evenly, cut your meats and vegetables in uniform sizes and ensure that there is some space between the food to allow the steam to circulate.
• Food continues to cook when removed from the microwave by the heat generated within it, so always take standing time into account.
• Adjust the vent on your steamer to allow steam to release during cooking, or close it to keep the heat in after cooking.
• Some foods, like tomato based sauces or curries can stain containers. Before cooking these spray your container lightly with a non-stick cooking spray to reduce the risk of staining.
