microwave

America has fallen behind in the space race, folks. Oh sure, NASA may have little dune buggies rolling around up on Mars, but can Curiosity or Opportunity pop a bag of popcorn? Didn't think so. That makes it kind of hard to watch such outer-space classics such as "2001: A Space Odyssey" or "Spaceballs." There is only way to settle in with a bag of popcorn for a true sci-fi experience, and that is with a space-age microwave. And it's the U.K. that has it.

The Fagor Spoutnik is a microwave on its … Read more

Our long national nightmare of vending machines only delivering cold items is almost over. Once EatWave vending machines take over the break rooms and hotel lobbies of the world, we will no longer have to wait in line at the microwave.

EatWave offers a complete junk food meal from a single machine. You can get a cold soda, a bag of chips, a hot pastrami sandwich, and a chocolate bar all at once. Each EatWave machine is equipped with a built-in microwave unit and a gravity delivery system for moving the food.… Read more

The more versatile a kitchen appliance is, the more highly regarded it may be. And rightly so: space-saving devices are not only convenient, but they also have the capability to increase efficiency. The age of being able to get more cooking done with only a press of a button was heralded in by the microwave. Usually however (except for the clock), the microwave doesn't do much else.

The Viking VCSO210SS Combi-Steam/Convect Oven combines an oven with a microwave and throws in the capability to steam cook for good measure. Featuring a slick, non-cluttered control panel, the oven can … Read more

Microwaves aren't exactly known for their abilities to perform graceful cooking tasks. Certainly, technological advancements have extended the capabilities of the microwave up to the point where sophisticated meals can be made with the appliance. But still, sometimes it's about getting your hands dirty. Or silicone paddle, as the case may be.

The Prepology Microwave Food Warmer with Auto Stir Technology is an easy, no-hassle way to stir cooking food in turntable-equipped microwaves. Featuring extendable arms that reach out to the sides of the microwave, the gadget stays in place while the bowl rotates underneath. Simply clip it … Read more

The microwave has become one of the most easily identified appliances in the kitchen. Which is pretty impressive considering that its most recognizable feature is that it is a rectangular box with buttons on it. Updates across the years have given the ubiquitous appliance a series of not-always-so-distinctive design enhancements, but as we all know, appeal goes beyond skin deep.

Microwave technology has come a long way since those one-trick ponies of the past. While the popcorn button is in little danger of becoming outdated anytime soon, additional convenient features make the microwaves of today more efficient at creating meals … Read more

Kitchen countertops are busy landscapes. As with any endeavor, tools of the trade can sometimes clutter the work area. However, cutlery and cutting boards are much easier to store away and out of sight than appliances are. Usually.

The Thermador MD24JS Built-in MicroDrawer Microwave employs a creative use of space that allows it to always be at the ready while not being in the way. Installing directly into standard-depth cabinetry, the 24-inch built-in microwave slides open at a touch (no handle) and features a full-flush front for an attractive aesthetic that blends into the environment of the kitchen. With a … Read more

It is no secret that cooking and mood are closely related.

After a good meal it is hard not have a satisfied smile on the face. But how food makes us feel goes beyond the simple act of achieving the warm glow of sustenance. For some, pleasure is derived in cooking food; for others the reward can be found in the soil in helping fruits and vegetables to grow. And with all these good vibes associated with food, now an appliance wants to get in on the action.

The Whirlpool Limited Edition Max Microwave offers an experience in cooking unlike … Read more

We all seek solutions to our financial issues.

Some turn out to be imperfect. Take this one, tried recently by a gentleman who allegedly walked into a Wal-Mart in Lexington, N.C., in order to buy a microwave, a vacuum cleaner, and other unspecified items.

You see, his inventive notion was to proffer a $1 million bill and claim that it was perfectly legal tender.

The way the Winston-Salem Journal has it, Michael Anthony Fuller, 53 was merely being asked to pay $476 for his electronic and other items.

Presumably, he imagined that he would received $999,524 in change … Read more

I had an incident recently where oatmeal bubbled over the top of the bowl and coated my microwave with a gloppy mess. If only I had a microwave with a built-in projector, I would have seen it coming much more clearly.

Designers Hwang Jungjoon and Lee Jaeryong are already on top of this issue with a concept that melds a microwave and a projector. It's called the "Proinjector," which sounds more like a fancy turkey prep accessory than a kitchen appliance.

The idea is that the projector captures what's happening inside and projects it against the kitchen wall. You don't have to squint through the thick front window of your microwave to see if the chicken cacciatore is about to explode.… Read more