When designing a kitchen (whether a remodel or new construction) the choice of appliances is a major factor. One appliance, in particular, has become a mainstay in most kitchens and can be used by children & adults.

The microwave oven has come a long way since its beginning in 1947 as the "Radarange". The basis of the technology was using electromagnetic radiation to rotate and heat molecules in food thereby heating it from the inside out. Through various changes in size and price the first countertop microwave was introduced by the Amana Corporation in 1967.

Those first models were mostly used to reheat foods, melt butter and chocolate and do very basic cooking operations. The modern day microwave oven offers many advantages over the older models and if cooks aren't using them to their full advantage they're missing out on a truly time saving appliance. While each manufacturer has their own variety of models, each with their own selection of programs, I'd like to introduce you to two micro ovens that I'm especially fond of.

The first is the microwave oven drawer (pictured above). I find this model very useful when designing for accessibility. If someone in the home is wheelchair bound, or of diminutive size (either a child or adult) the micro drawer is installed below the countertop and is very easy to access. The drawer opens with a touch of a button and bowls can remain in the unit for easy stirring - no lifting heavy or hot food from an overhead position.

By the way, one of the most dangerous placements for a microwave oven is over the range. Not only is it difficult to reach, but often you are reaching over a hot surface. As much as I dislike countertop micro ovens (built-in is the way to go) they're much safer that over the range models. Most larger countertop units can be built-in with specialized trim kits. Check your model number and see if one is available.

The second version I'd like to introduce is the micro-convection oven. This is the unit I've had in my home for over ten years and is my personal favorite.

My new built-in Micro Convection oven

For a small family, an empty nest couple or singles, it is an all around go to for almost any food you'd like to make. Not only does it work as a standard microwave, but you can also bake or roast on the convection setting or use a combination of microwaving and convection to speed up the cooking process while browning. I've made everything from roast chicken to meatloaf to pies in it. I very rarely use my main oven and was seriously considering not installing a range (just a cooktop) when I remodeled my kitchen last year. But large batches of Christmas cookies and resale value won out!

If you're in the market for a new microwave oven, please take the time to research the options available either online or in the stores and see which will really fulfill your needs. Or call me for more information. And, by the way, dig out the recipe book that came with your unit and start experimenting with all the great ways you can use your microwave. It ain't just for popcorn anymore!