keberoxu, there are a few simple tips for using a microwave oven safely. Generally I find the microwave is really very useful, when I use it for some specific types of cooking, defrosting or reheating.

The most important things to remember are not to place anything metal in the oven, even plates with metallic decorations, and not to overheat.

I have some tricks e.g. making a "boiled" egg using small cups to cook egg. I bought a set of four from the cheap shop for a few dollars. They work well. I set the temperature on medium, cook for a total of about 2 to 2.5 minutes, but do it one minute at a time and check whether it is done to your liking.

I also make scrambled eggs in a mug. I put a teaspoon or two of oil in the mug, swirl it around to cover the inside, crack the egg(s) and add them - I usually only do two at a time - add some milk (about a third of a cup for two eggs), a pinch of salt, sometimes a few drops of tabasco sauce. Then the same timing as the "boiled" egg but stirring between each cooking time.

I use the defrost setting and check between each cooking time, but I use the lowest setting to defrost chicken because it can start to cook on the defrost setting. I usually stop the defrosting a little before it has finished to allow the food to defrost on its own.

In the BS: Things to put in a stew thread I added some ideas for steaming vegetables, especially greens like asparagus, green beans or broccoli.

I also make a pot of real coffee and keep it in the frig and then reheat it in the microwave in a mug with milk, on high, 2 mins 15 seconds.

There are so many quick and easy things to use it for, although it doesn't suit some foods or cooking processes.

Have fun and enjoy!