Unwrapped Season 3 Episode 12 Microwave
- TVG
- June 23, 2003
- 20 min
Unwrapped season 3 episode 12, titled "Microwave," explores the many ways we use our microwaves to cook, heat up and enjoy our favorite dishes. Host Marc Summers takes viewers into the kitchens of microwave manufacturers, food scientists and chefs to understand how the microwave has revolutionized the way we cook.
The episode kicks off with a behind-the-scenes look at the microwave manufacturing process. From the vacuum-sealing of the magnetron, the part of the microwave that produces the electromagnetic waves, to the assembly of the timer and control panel, viewers will see first-hand how one of the most common kitchen appliances is made.
Next, Summers visits a lab focused on microwave cooking. Here, food scientists demonstrate the process of dielectric heating, which is the scientific principle on which microwave cooking is based. The experts explain how microwaves penetrate food and produce heat by exciting the molecules within it. With the aid of slow-motion footage and top-of-the-line equipment, the team demonstrates how this type of heating is different from conventional cooking methods and how it affects the texture, flavor and nutritional content of the food.
With the science behind microwaving covered, the episode moves onto the practical application of the appliance. Summers meets up with an expert who demonstrates the proper way to cook a frozen pizza using a microwave. By placing the pizza on a microwave-safe dish and following the manufacturer's recommended cook time, Summers and the expert successfully produce a crispy, delicious pizza that tastes like it was baked in a conventional oven.
The episode then highlights some unexpected uses for our microwaves, starting with the art of microwave quilting. This unique technique involves creating intricate patterns and designs on fabric by using microwaves to microwave the dye into the fabric. Viewers will be impressed with some of the beautiful quilts they see that have been created using this innovative method.
Next, Summers visits a restaurant that uses a special technique to microwave apples. By slicing the apples thinly and microwaving them for a few seconds on high heat, the restaurant creates a deconstructed apple pie that is both tasty and unique. The restaurant owner shares the recipe for this easy-to-make dessert, which is sure to impress any guest.
Wrapping up the episode, Summers showcases some of the newest and most innovative microwave accessories on the market. Viewers will see a collapsible microwave cover that prevents splatters, a microwave popcorn maker that lets you make your own popcorn in the microwave and a microwave egg cooker that produces perfectly cooked, fluffy eggs in just a few seconds.
Overall, Unwrapped season 3 episode 12, "Microwave," provides a comprehensive look at the many ways we use one of our most popular kitchen appliances. From the science behind microwaving to the many fun and innovative ways it can be used, viewers will come away with a greater understanding and appreciation for this essential kitchen tool.