Thoughtful Gifts For Veterans Day 2023

Veterans day

Veterans Day is a national day of remembrance, celebrated annually on November 11th. The day honors all U.S. Armed Forces veterans, who have fought in the military and now return to civilian life. It commemorates the service of United States veterans and was officially introduced in 1918 by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson as a national tribute. Veterans day is the best time to buy thoughtful gifts to honor all hidden heroes.

Thoughtful Gifts to Give on Veterans Day

Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens

Over-the-range microwave ovens are cooking appliances that help you make various meals conveniently. You can mount these ovens in your kitchen space to enjoy more preparation space as compared to traditional ovens. The over-the-range microwave ovens are also safe for kids and pets as they are installed above the cooking range. You can use them for cooking, reheating, and steaming veggies, as well as for preparing whole meals.

Veterans Day Sale: TVs

TVs are devices you can use for television broadcasts and entertainment. You can get top-rated TVs in a wide range of technologies including LCD, LED, OLED, etc. Smart TVs offer smart features and also let you access online shows and videos conveniently. You can easily get a TV with higher picture resolution and perfect picture contrast. We recommend you choose the right screen size based on your space availability.

Cookware Sets

Cookware sets are kitchen equipment used for meal preparation. These sets include pots, pans, skillets, and more. Non-stick cookware sets have a coating of specialized material that requires less or no oil to let you cook your meals in a healthy way. These sets are also designed to cook your meals faster by distributing heat evenly.

Wrist Watches

Wristwatches are wearable gadgets that come in various types, including analog watches, smartwatches, digital watches, etc. The G-Shock GBD800UC-8 is a sports watch that can help you track your step counts conveniently. You can link this watch with a phone app to get access to many functions that enhance your workouts. It also lets you maintain step count logs with five exercise intensity levels.

Barbecue Tool Sets

Barbecue tool sets are a great way to start the grilling season. They mainly include basic necessary tools like a spatula, tongs, and a brush. There are many types of barbecue tools you may need to help you with your outdoor BBQ. The reviews of Anpro Grilling Accessories Grill Kit are good because it comes with all the important stainless steel tools. It has a stylish appearance which makes it perfect for housewarming, weddings, groomsmen, bridesmaids, as well as birthdays.

Pocket Knives

Pocket knives are handy tools that you can use as a knife, bottle opener, corkscrew, tweezer, wood saw, etc. The Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool is a perfect tool for working around the house or deep in the wilderness. It is compact in size and you can carry it on your adventurous trips easily. This pocket knife is made of stainless steel material that ensures high durability.

Veterans Day Sale: Bar Sets

Bar sets are essential items that will make your home bar space more functional. The BUYGOO Bullet Whiskey Stones offer you a unique way of keeping your drinks cool to revolutionize your drinking experience. This product is made of food-grade quality 304 stainless steel which makes it safe to use. These stones are also anti-corrosion and time resistant.

Buttons & Pins

Buttons & Pins mainly use for decorating clothing, and bags, as well as for other accessories. This veterans day you can check American Flag Lapel Pins that come in a pack of 24, 50 as well as 100. The size of this is 0.75*0.7*0.4 inch. Each lapel pin features an easy open clasp that makes it easy to wear on your shirt, hat, t-shirt, or sweater. You can also attach it to your backpack for personalized decoration.

Conclusion

Veterans Day is a day set aside to honor as well as remember the military veterans of the United States. It is the day to show gratitude to war veterans who have served in the armed forces. You can pay tribute to these veterans by offering them unique and thoughtful gifts.

BestViewsReviews helps you find amazing gifts like the best wine decanters on the market by rating and reviewing them on the basis of quality, convenience, and durability. Get unbiased, honest reviews of products before you buy.

Top 5 Compact Microwave

compact microwave

Compact microwaves are microwaves with smaller capacities. These devices usually offer a cooking capacity of 0.7-1.2 cubic feet. The general width of 15-19″ gives this microwave a compact size that occupies less of your kitchen space and allows you to easily move it or keep it on the countertop. They have digital and user-friendly operations. You just need to push a button for it to start. It has a magnetron that converts the electrical energy from the power supply into powerful waves. The waveguide further emits these waves into the food compartment of the microwave.

Microwave cooking is more energy-efficient than conventional cooking. They take less time and energy to cook or heat the food, and they also only heat the food not the entire compartment. Read our blog about the best-selling microwave for your home to choose the best one.

Top 5 Compact Microwave

Breville BMO650SIL Compact Microwave Oven

The Breville BMO650SIL Compact Microwave Oven is a countertop oven engineered with a soft close door and clever touches like a child look. It comes with cooking shortcuts and a food menu. It allows you to reheat, defrost, and popcorn with just one touch and auto settings. The food menu functions give you the convenience of cooking quick and easy snacks.

Panasonic Compact Microwave

The Panasonic Compact Microwave has stainless steel built and an easy-space saving size. It has 1200 watts of cooking power with 11 different power levels. This microwave offers smart and manual controls with an LED display. The sensor cook settings allow you to reheat evenly and retain nutrients and texture in leftovers. It also features an inverter turbo defrost that lessens defrosting time.

Panasonic NE-1025F Compact Microwave Oven

The reviews of Panasonic NE-1025F Compact Microwave Oven are positive about its compact design. It stands 12″ tall that occupies minimal space. This makes it ideal for offices, waitress stations, cafeterias and etc. It comes with a bottom energy feed system that gives faster cooking results. This microwave also features a user-friendly electronic timer dial.

WINIA Retro Microwave

The reviews of WINIA Retro Microwave show that it has an excellent design. The unique retro design captures a vintage aesthetic while providing modern conveniences. This oven saves energy and only consumes electricity only while it is on. It also comes with 5 auto cook menus with pre-set menu functions. The 2 way defrost allows you to thaw your food faster by using time or weight defrost function.

Commercial Chef Microwave Oven

The reviews of Commercial Chef Microwave Oven suggest that it is an easy-to-operate model. It comes with mechanical dials that control 6 cooking power levels and a timer for simple operation. The dial offers timing intervals between 1 to 30 minutes for easy cooking. The package includes microwave-safe plates, and bowls. This oven is easy to clean and has a removable turntable.

What Size is a Compact Microwave?

Generally, compact microwaves have an interior space of 0.5 to 0.9 cubic feet. The usual dimensions range from a height of 10-11″ and a width of 15-19″. The depth of the oven is measured differently with closed and open doors. The compact microwaves are available in a wide range of sizes. The high-end models are compact with smart features. You can choose the models that meet your needs perfectly.

Can Frozen Dinner be Cooked in Compact Microwave?

You can cook some of the frozen food in the microwave but you need to strictly follow the instructions given on the packaging. Once the food is cooked you can test the food with a thermometer to check if it’s the right temperature or not. You can also use a knife to make sure if the food is cooked thoroughly or not.

Microwaves are electronic devices that people usually use in the kitchen to cook food. These device keeps on upgrading to better technology. There are different types of microwaves available in the market. One of them is a built-in microwave that is installed within a cabinet space. Read this blog and know everything about a built-in microwave.

Conclusion

Compact microwave ovens are a necessary addition to your kitchen if you live in a compact space. They consume less area and offer all the benefits of a microwave oven. You can heat, defrost, and cook all types of food in them. The small capacity of compact ovens is perfect for small families.

BestViewsRevies rates and reviews hundreds of best products like over-the-range microwave ovens and countertop microwave ovens on the basis of durability, features, and quality.

Know Everything about a Microwave Cabinet

Microwave cabinet

Microwave cabinets are spaces for housing, storing, or covering microwave ovens. There are three ways in which you can build the cabinet: upper, lower, or as a separate island. A microwave cabinet is usually available in a sturdy wooden structure. It saves space, offers convenience, and adds an appeal to your kitchen set-up.
You cannot use a microwave cabinet for all microwaves. There are certain limitations to using a cabinet. Different types of microwaves demand different set ups. We have tried to answer specific questions, that often arise, when we talk about microwave cabinets, in this blog. We hope this helps you choose the right microwave cabinets for your kitchen.

Is it Safe to Put a Microwave in a Cabinet?

There are some microwaves that cannot be placed in a cabinet. For example, in a countertop oven, the vent is at the back. Installing a countertop microwave inside a cabinet blocks these vents and it will not emit steam. The result can be a major fire hazard.
The bottom of built-in microwaves usually has a vent that removes smoke as well as moisture. Because of this, they are ideal for cabinets.

What is the Standard Size of a Cabinet?

Cabinet volumes range from 1.0 to 2.2 cubic feet, with the majority falling within the range of 1.2 to 1.6 cubic feet. The standard width of the cabinet is 24, 27, or 30 inches. Cabinets have an average height of 17 to 22 inches. Doors typically have a depth of 20 to 25 inches when closed. The depths range between 30 and 35 inches with the door open.

What Kind of Microwave Goes in a Cabinet?

You can place only built-in microwave ovens and over-the-range microwaves in a cabinet. This frees up your counter space allowing you to conveniently do your chores.

Can You Mount a Countertop Microwave Under a Cabinet?

Yes, you can mount a countertop microwave under a cabinet. The microwave oven hangs above the counter with the support of the mounting plate that is attached to the bottom of a cabinet

Some Countertop Microwaves That Can be Used Under a Microwave Cabinet

You cannot install standard countertop microwaves under a microwave cabinet but certain models can transform from a countertop model to a built-in model with the help of trimmers. Such features are not common and are available with only a handful of microwaves.

  • The Sharp Matte Carousel convection microwave oven is a simple microwave oven that you can use both as a countertop microwave and as a built-in microwave. It features an oven-to-table quality ceramic turntable platter. It comes with a trim kit to suit contemporary kitchen set-ups.
  • 24 in. 1.2 CU. FT. 950W Sharp stainless steel microwave oven measures 24-inch and you can install it beneath an island, peninsula, standard cabinetry, or on the countertop.

Bottomline

Measuring your existing microwave enclosure’s height, width, and depth is important before you buy a built-in or over-the-range microwave. Appliances like these need a 30 inches cutout from the top of your stove to the top of your cabinet. There must be 6 inches of space between your kitchen walls and the microwave for the door to open fully. Check your user manual to make sure you have enough ventilation space around it. -Professional installation is important for built-in microwaves. BestViewsReviews rates and ranks hundreds of microwaves and other products with honest reviews and recommendations for you. Browse through to know your buying options.

The Best Selling Microwave Options 2022

best microwave

Microwaves are essential household appliances in today’s society. It uses hot air convection to heat your food in just a few minutes. There are several features that make microwaves the best, including pre-set cooking options, convection options, and carousels that work efficiently. When shopping for a microwave, be sure to check many of these features. Read our blog to know everything about the best microwave.

Microwave Best-sellers

The list below contains some of the finest models of microwave that are energy efficient and include ample features.

GE JVM3160RFSS Microwave Oven

The GE JVM3160RFSS Microwave Oven features smart controls, a pre-programmed sensor menu, and an easy-to-read digital display. The one-touch cooking option offers you convenience. You can save on your energy costs by using power saver options. This machine consumes 1000 Watts of power.

Sharp Over The Range Microwave Oven

The Sharp Over The Range Microwave Oven comes with a blue LED display for easy controls. This machine has a child lock, sensor cook, one-touch cook, time cook, as well as express cook settings. It also has a cooking capacity of 1.6 cu ft. You can use this gadget for cooking, reheating, and baking.

Nostalgia RMO4IVY

The Nostalgia RMO4IVY offers 800 watts of cooking power, 12 pre-programmed settings, and an easy-to-read LED display. This appliance has easy to use program dial, a sleek look, and customizable settings. It measures 19 x 15 x 11 inches in size and has a cooking capacity of 0.9 cubic feet with 5 power levels.

BLACK+DECKER EM720CB7

The Black & Decker EM720CB7 is a great addition to your kitchen. It comes with pre-programmed settings, 10 power levels for convenient cooking, as well as a 30-sec express cooking feature. This model also offers a push-button release feature, 700 watts of powerful cooking, and one year warranty.

Farberware Stainless Steel Microwave Oven

This spacious and stylish Faberware stainless steel microwave comes with 10 power levels as well as 6 cooking programs for innovative cooking. It features an express cooking button, digital clock, child safety lock, and a defrost option. This appliance is a must-have item in any kitchen cabinet.

 Amazon Basics Microwave

This Amazon basics microwave is a smart cooking appliance that works with Alexa and operates with quick voice presets. It has amazon’s dash replenishment policy that lets you get 10% off on popcorn orders. This machine is compact in size and also includes 10 plus power levels. The child lock feature makes this device safe and easy to use.

Guide for Buying the Best Microwaves

Types

Microwaves are available in 4 major types; countertop, over the range, built-in and drawer style microwaves. A countertop microwave is a popular option because of its portable usage. The right selection depends on you what style you are looking for. We recommend you choose the right type as per your requirements.

Size

The size of the microwave depends on the size of the place of installation. Make sure the door of the microwave can open easily without any obstruction. You can go with large-sized models if you have ample kitchen space.

Capacity

Choose a microwave with a capacity of 2 cubic feet if you need it to cook larger batches of food. The models with 0.5 cubic feet to 2 cubic Ft of capacity are good for cooking smaller batches. The best way to determine the size is to read the product description and check the turntable size.

Power

The cooking will be better with more wattage consumption. The most common available wattage is between 500 to 1000W. Households usually prefer 700 watts as they are efficient and affordable. You can go with the ones that are more than 700 watts for commercial purposes.

Preset Cooking Buttons

Look for microwaves that come with pre-set options before making any final purchase. These pre-set cooking buttons auto-select the temperature and time on the basis of the food type. This feature is helpful for amateur cooks or beginners.

Added Cooking Functions

Many microwaves offer added cooking features like grilling, steaming, and convection. These microwaves are multifunctional and can cook as well as bake with the same efficiency. The functions should be selected based on usage. If you rarely use microwaves, then go for the basic models with basic functions. 

Sensors

Sensors are present to prevent overcooking as well as undercooking problems. They customize the cooking time and power accordingly. This helps you cook your food efficiently.

Venting

Over the top microwaves often require ventilation. They act as a passage to remove any odors from the kitchen. It also acts as a duct to remove smoke when cooking over a stovetop. If your kitchen has space for the over-the-top variants or electric wall ovens, you can consider one for yourself. They will save space, remove bad air, and offer convenient cooking.

Turntables

Turntables are an essential part of microwaves. They are removable and can also be dishwasher-friendly. Most turntables are available in circular and rectangle shapes. The circular turntable is good for regular usage. The rectangular one is ideal for large dishes like pizza and casseroles.

Warranty

Microwaves usually come with a warranty of 1 year. Some brands offer an extended warranty too. We suggest you check the product details well before your purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does More Wattage Mean in a Microwave?

Wattage means the power that a microwave consumes while producing a heating effect. A microwave that offers efficient cooking and maintains its functions is ideal. Most microwaves are in the 600W to 1250W range. Faster cooking is always associated with higher wattage.

Why Choose Convection Microwave?

A convection microwave is a versatile appliance. It can perform many functions at once. It can cook, bake, roast, and grill food easily. The heating mechanism of this machine produces perfectly cooked and delicious food. Many models include pre-set cooking options. They offer comfortable and restaurant-style cooking.

Conclusion

A microwave is an excellent cooking appliance that every kitchen should have. It makes your cooking tasks easier as well as offers you versatile cooking options. You can go with any type and model. Make sure you check the energy-star rating and manufacturer’s warranty before buying.

Many microwave ovens have air fryer capabilities. Check our blog to find the best microwave ovens with air fryers in 2022.

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Types of Microwaves: An Informative Guide

Microwaves

Microwaves have been around for many decades, yet they continue to evolve. The technology often changes resulting in better versions. They allow us to make food and turn it into delicious recipes. In the past, they were popular for cooking, heating food, defrosting, and more.
Today, microwaves are more versatile. They allow you to whip recipes, defrost and offer many preset program buttons. If you’ve ever used a microwave, you will know that what you use is just a kind. There are many kinds available with sleeker looks and ergonomic functions. Read our blog to know all about microwaves.

Countertop Microwaves 

The capacity of countertop microwaves ranges from 0.5 to 2 cubic feet and is suitable on any corner in the kitchen. These freestanding models are portable, affordable, and offer a wide range of colors. The reviews of the Commercial Chef Countertop Small Microwave Oven show that it is easy to move around and a compact model for your kitchen space.

Over-the-Range Microwaves 

You can install Over the range microwaves above your cooking range or cooktop. Their functioning is the same as the countertop ones. They also have a built-in ventilation system that removes smoke and steam. The over the range microwaves are available in a wide range of sizes and wattages. They offer different venting options for convenience too. The Toshiba ML2-EM12EA(BS) Microwave Oven has got good reviews for its smart sensor, ECO mode, and sound on/off function.

Built-In Microwaves 

You can install built-in microwaves inside a cabinet or the wall to save more counter space. They are also known as electric wall ovens and are high maintenance. They also need professional installation. Their exterior dimensions are like countertop microwaves of a similar capacity.

You can go with models like Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SN936B that come with smart cooking functions and an automatic genius sensor.

Microwave Drawers 

You can install microwave drawers below a wall oven or countertop microwaves. These models pull out like a drawer and need significant investment due to their initial setup. They offer a sleek as well as a modern look while holding the microwave and blending in with the rest of the décor. These microwaves come with a safety lock feature to prevent children from opening and operating it. They are also easy to operate and offer single-hand operation. This makes them convenient to use.

The Sharp SMD2470AS Microwave Drawer Oven has a cooking capacity of 1.2 cubic feet. It has got excellent reviews because it allows for easier cooking and saves prep and clean-up time.

Solo Microwaves

A solo microwave oven is a simpler version of a microwave oven. It’s ideal for reheating, cooking, and defrosting, but it doesn’t have functions to grill or bake. A solo microwave like Galanz GLCMKA07BER-07 oven suffices for individual cooking needs, but it lacks special features.

Grill Microwaves

Foods that you would cook on the stovetop can also be cooked in a grill microwave. Grilling, searing, and browning dishes are all possible with grill microwaves. Some also include a convection oven feature, allowing you to bake. This makes them convenient and handy. The Samsung MG11T5018CC is a perfect appliance that comes with the grill element to evenly distribute heat to the food.

Convection Microwaves

Convection microwaves like Toshiba EC042A5C-BS combine cooking and convection heating to expand your cooking options. Hot air circulates and helps achieve crispier and cooked dishes. The speed of cooking is faster and you can cook a variety of food items. The power generally varies from 600 to 1300 watts.  

Conclusion 

We hope our blog will help you identify your needs and bring a suitable variant home. Features like defrost, nonstick coating, power, and preset levels, child lock, and timer are handy features to look for in a microwave. It can be confusing to decide what to buy between an air fryer and a microwave. Read our blog to know which is better.

BestViewsReviews reviews & recommends best-selling microwaves based on their quality, performance, and durability.

How to Microwave Bacon?

Bacon cooked in the microwave is almost everyone’s favorite breakfast option. Everyone enjoys these crunchy, salty, and smoky strips. It generally takes a long time to cook bacon to perfection on a standard skillet. Hot oil backsplashes accompany the perfect strips, but it wouldn’t be worth it. It’s almost like a regime to cook in a skillet and watch the progress. There are so many convenient ways to cook bacon that one can afford to give the traditional way a miss.

It is possible to cook the strips, causing no oil to be spatter. A simple method is outlined for cooking bacon in the oven. Microwaves are an essential part of today’s household. Several of these features are important to check when purchasing a microwave. Read our informative guide on the best microwaves.

Can you Microwave Bacon and Is it Healthy to Microwave Bacon?

The answer is definitely yes. The only requirement is that the bacon is placed between two layers of paper towels. It will absorb grease on the bottom and prevent grease splatter on the top. Cooking bacon in a microwave is the easiest method. It comes out perfectly crispy and evenly cooked. There’s no need for a special cooker for this.

It’s just as good for you as any other way. Microwave ovens are completely safe to use. Foods prepared in the microwave are as nutritious as those prepared in other ways. Microwaved bacon, according to recent studies, has less fat and calories than pan-fried. One reason for this is that in the microwave, your paper towels will absorb all the fatty bacon oil. Microwaving bacon appears to improve its nutritional profile. Read our blog on the best Low Profile Microwave to find out whether or not it is good for you.

How to Microwave Bacon?

Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven with the rack placed within. Spread a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. Make sure that the sheet extends outside and is bigger than the placing area. This will keep the oven clean while you are cooking the bacon.

Arrange the Strips

This is an important step to follow. Bacon strips that are not arranged properly will not cook properly, leaving them sticky. Cut 12 ounces into strips and arrange them next to each other to cook. Do not overlap them, as they might not cook properly.

Cooking Technique

Bake the strips for 12 -14 minutes on a baking sheet inside a preheated oven. It is recommended that thinner slices be cooked for 12 minutes, but thicker slices should be cooked for 14 minutes. During this time, you will see the bacon fat bubble up, but fortunately, there will be no splatters.

Take Out the Batch

Once the strips are ready, pull the batch out with tongs or a pair of cooking gloves. Transfer it to another dish lined with paper towels. The towels soak the excess oil, keeping the crispiness of the bacon. Once they are ready, don’t delay if you don’t want to lose on any of the crispiness and savor immediately. You can also team it with a hot and fluffy cheesy omelet for the perfect nutritious breakfast.

How Long does it Take to Cook a Rasher of Bacon in the Microwave?

The usual cooking time for a slice of bacon is roughly 1 minute. This time is a little less for thin slices, and for thick-cut slices, it is a little more. Just before you think the bacon is done, stop cooking it as it continues to crisp in the microwave. It is best to use this method when you only need a few slices of bacon, such as for a quick breakfast sandwich or crumbling over a salad. You can add more bacon layers to the microwave and cook them all at once. The bacon will not cook evenly and will take longer. Rather, just go with the oven-baked bacon option at that point.

Does microwaved Bacon Have Less Fat?

According to the Department of Agriculture, microwave-cooked bacon has 25 calories per slice. The pan-fried bacon has 42 calories per slice. The Microwaved bacon has 1.86 grams of total fat per slice and the Pan-fried bacon has 3.18 grams of total fat. Microwaving bacon between paper towels causes fat to absorb throughout the cooking process. This cooking method has a lower fat level. Microwaving bacon makes both the meat and the fat crispy. The Pan-frying produces a more classic bacon texture, with crispy fat and chewy meat.

Microwaving sweet potatoes reduces your cooking time by around 45 minutes. Read our blog on how to microwave sweet potatoes in many ways.

How to Reheat Bacon in the Microwave

Reheating bacon in the microwave is the most convenient method. You must keep in mind that reheating bacon for the entire family in the microwave may take several rounds. The following instructions will show you how to reheat cooked bacon in the microwave.

  • On a plate, arrange bacon strips in a single layer.
  • Using a paper towel, cover a plate.
  • Microwave on high for 20–60 seconds.
  • After one round, remove the bacon to ensure it is heated. If not, reheat for 20 seconds more.
  • Remove the pieces of bacon off the platter and set them on a paper towel to absorb any excess grease.
  • Serve and have fun.

Conclusion

Bacon has been a delicious snack or breakfast option for a long time. The dishes are easy to prepare, quick to cook, and require little attention. This food is best cooked in an oven because it is convenient for cooking large batches. The convection mechanism ensures a thoroughly cooked and crispy end product. It is time to make the switch from cooking bacon on the stovetop to cooking it in the oven for a better result.

BestViewsReviews helps you find the best countertop microwaves and top electric wall ovens on the market by rating and reviewing them on the basis of quality, convenience, and durability. Get unbiased, honest reviews of products before you buy.