Microwaves have come a long way since the first commercial model was released in 1947. If you're not familiar with this essential appliance's origin, here's a quick rundown: While working on magnetron production for the military in World War II, Percy Spencer, a Raytheon employee and physicist, discovered that a candy bar in his pocket had melted . Spencer quickly filed a patent for an invention based on the strange accident, and the microwave oven was born. Today, the best microwaves save valuable time in food prep when compared to a conventional oven. They are used to warm up leftovers, make popcorn, melt chocolate and steam veggies, among many, many other possibilities. Modern microwaves come with plenty of size, power, color and function options. You can get a convection microwave, range microwave, smart microwave, standard microwave, drawer microwave or a grill microwave. You even have smart microwave options such as the GE Smart Countertop Microwave and the … [Read more...] about Best microwaves for 2022
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How to Clean a Cast-Iron Skillet (and How Not to)
This story is part of Home Tips , CNET's collection of practical advice for getting the most out of your home, inside and out. Cast iron is a favorite among home chefs and for good reason. The tough-as-nails cookware material is a fierce keeper of heat, so it imparts a better sear on most foods than other cookware types. It's also one of the best-kept secrets for keeping the grill from getting gunky during summer . To properly care for and clean cast iron isn't difficult, but it does have its own set of rules in order to keep that natural nonstick patina in the best possible condition for as long as you can. There are a few easy rules to follow to keep your cast iron clean and looking good without damaging the seasoning you've worked so hard to create. Read more: How to Perfectly Season a Cast-Iron Pan Don't put cast-iron cookware in the dishwasher You might be wondering if you can put your cast iron in the dishwasher in a pinch. While the dishwasher … [Read more...] about How to Clean a Cast-Iron Skillet (and How Not to)