Microwaves were accidentally discovered in the 1940s in the United States by engineer Percy Spencer. Raytheon, the company he worked for, patented the first unit in 1945. The first food cooked was popcorn. These units are most popular in the United States, Britain, and Ireland. They are not as popular in Europe but can be found in Italy and Poland. These mini-ovens were originally used to warm leftovers, boil water for hot beverages, defrost meat or frozen meals, and make popcorn. Modern microwave oven accessories enhance cooking performance and provide a wider variety of foods that can be cooked in these time-saving units.

Splatters and spills are eliminated by plate or splatter covers. The inside of the unit stays clean, and heat and moisture is contained closer to the plate for enhanced cooking. Turntables operated on tiny wheels distribute heat evenly. If the turntable breaks or the unit does not have one, go-arounds can be used instead. These are battery operated and rotate when food is placed on the surface.

Beverages and Side Dishes Are Quickly Created- Boiling water has now evolved to using a microwave kettle. This little look-alike glass measuring cup even whistles when water is ready. Sun tea can now be brewed quickly and deliciously. This container can also be used in the traditional outdoor method.

All ages love popcorn made by popcorn makers or poppers. The old-fashioned method uses a pan with oil on the stove. These poppers don't use oil and can even be used in a traditional oven or on the stove. Baked potato side dishes are easily created using potato bakers.

This helper cooks potatoes in a recessed tray or on vertical prongs. Rice is steamed in rice cookers or steamers without clumping. Cakes once made in the usual oven are now microwaved in silicone cake pans. This utensil is pliant, nonstick, cools extremely quick, and can also be used in larger-sized ovens. Sandwich makers easily and quickly create grilled sandwiches.

Perfect Eggs and Bacon Every Time- Breakfast foods such as eggs, bacon, and sausage can now be cooked. Some egg cookers create fantastic omelets, and others can boil up to four eggs. Breakfast makers cook eggs on one side and sausage or bacon on the other side. A meat cooker consists of a round plate with raised grooves to separate the bacon or sausage from the grease.

The other side is used to bake and defrost. Other bacon makers hang the bacon or slot the bacon for even cooking. Browning meat is even faster using a tender cooker. This item will even roast meat quickly and effectively.

Foil and metal cannot be placed in this appliance like in traditional ovens since the intense heat can cause fires. Plastic wrap is acceptable as long as it does not come in contact with the food in the baking container. Not all bake ware made from glass and plastic is safe to use. Some will melt or crack in these units. Check the underside of the cookware if unsure. The variety of microwave oven accessories increases every year along with the needs of consumers. These items make it easy for even children to fend for themselves at meal times.

Want more information? Click here to learn more about the Countertop Microwave Ovens, and where to get the best prices on Panasonic Microwave Ovens