Microwave ownership has increased dramatically in the last decade as more and more cooks realize its great potential. Although the microwave has the reputation for being a fast heating-up appliance, it can be a great kitchen aid for the keen conventional cook. Microwaving does take a little practice to master at first, however, if only because it is a different style of cooking. You have to get used to power coming in intense bursts of energy, which then have to be distributed through the dish either by a rotating turntable or by stirring. Microwave cooking is not always faster, but for many cooks it is more convenient, especially for some preparation steps in a recipe and for cooking simple everyday ingredients like vegetables.