The Shocking Truth: Why Cookery Shows Shun the Microwave Oven

When you tune into a cookery show, you’re likely to see chefs chopping, sautéing, roasting, and grilling. But one thing you’re unlikely to see is a microwave oven. Despite being a staple in most households and eateries worldwide, the microwave is conspicuously absent from the television kitchen. This might seem strange, given the appliance’s ubiquity and convenience. So, why do cookery shows shun the microwave oven? Let’s delve into the shocking truth behind this culinary conundrum.

The Art of Cooking

Cookery shows are not just about preparing food; they’re about the art of cooking. Chefs on these shows demonstrate techniques that viewers can learn and replicate in their own kitchens. Microwaving, while practical, doesn’t offer much in terms of skill development. It’s more about heating than cooking. The focus is on traditional cooking methods that require more hands-on involvement and expertise.

Quality and Taste

While microwaves are excellent for reheating leftovers or making popcorn, they’re not the best tool for cooking from scratch. Microwaves heat food unevenly, which can lead to hot spots and cold spots within the dish. This can affect the texture and taste of the food. Chefs prefer methods that provide more control over the cooking process, ensuring the best possible results in terms of flavor and presentation.

Entertainment Value

Let’s face it, watching someone microwave food isn’t exactly riveting television. Cookery shows are as much about entertainment as they are about food. The sizzle of a steak on a grill, the chopping of fresh vegetables, the whisking of a creamy sauce – these are all visually and audibly appealing. They create a sensory experience for the viewer that a microwave simply can’t match.

The Health Factor

There’s also a perception that microwaved food is less healthy than food cooked using traditional methods. While this isn’t necessarily true – the nutritional value of food is more about the ingredients you use and how you prepare them – it’s a perception that persists. Cookery shows often promote healthy eating, and avoiding the microwave can be seen as part of that message.

Conclusion

So, while the microwave is a convenient and useful tool in many kitchens, it’s not the star of the show when it comes to cookery programs. These shows are about teaching, inspiring, and entertaining, and traditional cooking methods simply work better in this context. But that doesn’t mean you should shun your microwave – it’s all about using the right tool for the job.