Parchment paper is indeed an extremely important kitchen tool. It’s quite popular among the bakers who use it in order to create a nonstick barrier. There are many excellent properties of using a parchment paper. For example, it’s non-sticky, heat resistant, and oil resistant. That’s why it’s widely used for baking and cooking.
Can you microwave parchment paper? Parchment paper is a disposable liner that provides a food grade, nonstick surface. Parchment paper is designed to withstand temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, so parchment paper is safe to use in the microwave under normal circumstances.
Of course, it’s not a simple paper. Instead, this type of paper undergoes a special process so that it obtains the above-mentioned properties. Continue reading to learn more about microwaving parchment paper and any risks associated with the task at hand.
Is it safe to microwave parchment paper?
Parchment paper is typically silicone-covered paper that is exposed to zinc chloride and sulfuric acid so that it forms the famous nonstick properties.
So, we understand the usefulness and benefits of parchment paper, but are you now wondering whether it is safe to use in microwave or not?
Parchment paper is safe to use in the microwave and is 100% microwavable. The nonstick paper can withstand high heat without being affected by the electromagnetic energy generated within the microwave.
In fact, parchment paper has a higher heat threshold than wax paper. It has been used for a long time to prepare various microwave-special recipes like mug cakes, crispy chicken fingers, crispy bacon, steamed recipes, and much more too.
So, do not have any hesitation, and please feel free to microwave parchment paper without any worry.
Can you microwave parchment paper safely?
Yes, you can microwave parchment paper safely. Parchment paper has a silicone-coating on the top that is not affected by the heat created within the microwave appliance.
An important note is that silicone can really withstand really high temperatures. Plus, silicone is food-safe as well.
According to a study, parchment paper and its surface can bear temperatures as high as 450 degrees Fahrenheit or 225 degrees Celsius. This temperature zone is far beyond the heating capacity that a standard microwave can produce.
Thus, whether you are using parchment paper for multi-step reheating or cooking techniques, there is absolutely no need to worry at all when using parchment paper in the microwave.
The only thing you should keep in mind is that parchment paper is flammable and hence you should keep it away from any sources of open flames.
How long can you microwave parchment paper?
Well, microwaving time depends on the type of recipe or cooking techniques you are following. Note, there is no strict time limit as such.
Consider a situation when you are planning to cook fish in your microwave using parchment paper. Therefore, you will need to place all the ingredients on the paper, apply a little bit of oil, add some spices, and fold & tightly seal the in a paper envelope.
You will now place the folded and wrapped paper, containing all the ingredients, inside the microwave oven, and let it cook for about five-minutes, depending on how thick the fish fillet is.
That’s it! The process will do the magic and you will get a stunning and incredibly delicious dish ready to savor your taste-buds right away.
You can even wrap a potato or sweet potato in parchment paper before nuking for about 20 minutes. This will trap heat and moisture around the root vegetable to help reduce the cooking time with more efficient results.
Thus, you can clearly understand there is no problem with the time-limit when it comes to using parchment paper in microwave. Depending on the recipe you are preparing, there can be a difference in the microwave time of parchment paper.
But, length of time does not cause any impact to be concerned about. The only thing that you should keep in mind is that the parchment paper has a maximum heat allowance that can withstand the capability of the microwave.
Typically, parchment paper can bear 450 Fahrenheit, so overheating in a microwave should be the least of the concerns. This temperature range is ideal for common microwave recipes like multi-step steaming and cooking dishes.
But, if you are cooking extremely fatty and sugary food items, then the temperature limit can go beyond 450 Fahrenheit. In such cases, use caution because the heat generated inside the oven may burn the parchment paper if cooked for too long.
Other than the temperature limit of 450 Fahrenheit, you can safely microwave parchment paper and prepare some utterly delicious recipes.
How do you microwave parchment paper?
Of course, you won’t microwave just parchment paper. Rather, you will use the paper liner when cooking, defrosting and reheating ingredients.
It is indeed a healthy and hassle-free way to prepare a recipe. In fact, it’s a fantastic way to line cookware for a nonstick surface and hassle free cleanup that requires no rigorous scrubbing.
This silicone-coated paper is moisture resistant, water resistant, and grease resistant. Thus, it will keep the microwave free from all the messes.
Similarly, if you are playing around with some other recipes like you wish to steam a dish inside the microwave, then you should first place all the ingredients on the paper and then tightly seal it up so that it does not leak the cooking juices and the flavors will even intensify. You can then put the folded and sealed paper into the microwave to create a steaming pocket of deliciousness .
Since you will tightly seal all the ingredients in a parchment paper, your kitchen appliance will remain neat and clean, without being messy.
Tips to Microwave Parchment Paper
Here are a few safety tips to follow when you are using parchment paper in a microwave:
- Use high-quality parchment paper from a reputable brand.
- Make sure to check the manufacturer’s note and if it has the label of microwave-safe. It’s indeed true that most parchment paper is safe to use in microwaves, but as an added precaution you may look for the microwave-safe label or tag on the packaging.
- Parchment paper is naturally flammable, hence do not place it close to the microwave heating element or near an open flame. In that case, it may have the chance of igniting and catching fire quick quickly.
Microwaving Parchment Paper: Final Thoughts
Parchment paper is a silicone coated liner that provides a nonstick surface for cooking and heating your favorite foods. Parchment paper is designed for use at temperatures up to 450 degrees, so under normal circumstances it is completely safe to use parchment paper in the microwave.
Water based foods heat to the boiling point which is 212 degrees Fahrenheit or 100 degrees Celsius. However, fatty and sugary food items can heat to temperature far beyond that, so use caution when microwaving these food groups.
Select a brand from a reputable manufacture that makes high quality paper. Select a liner that is labeled as microwave safe to reduce a further risks.
Most importantly, keep the paper liner away from any open flames or the heating element within the microwave. Parchment paper is extremely flammable and will spark up when introduced to a direct ignition source.
As always, exercise caution when microwaving anything. However, you should have no concern about using parchment paper in the microwave.