Microwave-Safe Foil Containers

Question: I have heard that it is safe to use foil containers in a microwave oven. Is this true?

Answer: According to the Aluminum Foil Container Manufacturers Assn., technological improvements during the past decade have made it possible for foil containers to be used in microwave ovens.

Aluminum foil containers will not harm the microwave oven magnetron (generator) or the service life of the oven. “Following a few safety steps also eliminates the possibility of ‘arcing,’ or generating a spark in the oven,” said association spokesperson Jeanne O’Malley.

The steps include:

--Remove any metal wrap or lid from the aluminum foil container.

--Ensure that the foil container is not much larger than the food it holds.

--Loosely cover the foil container with microwavable plastic wrap or wax paper to prevent splattering and to trap steam for faster cooking.

--Place the foil container directly on a plate or glass dish.

--Position the foil container in the center of the microwave oven, at least an inch away from the side walls.

--Ensure that the container is not touching other metal or foil.

Q: Why do my homemade kosher dill pickles sometimes collapse?

A: Pickles collapse because they are hollow, a condition caused by either faulty growth or poor development in the pickling cucumbers. Hollow cucumbers can usually be spotted during washing because they float. Set these aside for use in relishes.

The condition may also be a result of storing cucumbers too long after harvest before pickling--the process should be started within 24 hours of when they were picked. Too rapid fermentation or a brine that is too strong or too weak may also cause pickles to be hollow.

Q: I canned pears last summer but they had ripened too much and the finished product was soft and unappetizing. Can you suggest any way I could use these pears, which are still good tasting?

A: Process the fruit in a blender or food processor and use it as a base for beverages or in other recipes calling for pear puree. Here’s one idea:

FROSTY PEAR DRINK

2 pear halves, coarsely chopped

1 1/2 cups milk

1 cup lemon or pineapple sherbet

4 ice cubes, cracked

Place pears, milk, sherbet and ice in blender. Process until smooth. Makes about 1 quart.