Heating & Serving Instructions
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MICHELS MEALS
Disclaimer:
The following is a general guide for reheating your Michels Meals. Please note that microwaves and ovens may vary in heat distribution and efficiency. All meals should be reheated to a safe serving temperature above 70°C. If you don’t have a thermometer, use a clean fork or knife to pierce the centre of the meal and check that it’s hot all the way through, with no cold spots remaining.
Reheating From the Fridge (Chilled Meals)
Remove the lid or pierce it to allow steam to escape.
Heat your meal in the microwave on high for approximately 4 minutes.
Check the centre of the meal—if not hot enough, heat in additional 30–60 second bursts until fully reheated.
Let it sit for 1 minute before serving.
Tip: Stirring halfway through can help ensure even heating, especially for rice and pasta dishes.
Reheating From the Freezer (Frozen Meals)
Option 1 – Semi-defrost Method
Place your meal in the fridge in the morning before work or heading out.
By mealtime, it should be partially thawed and ready for the microwave.
Heat in the microwave on high for 8–10 minutes, checking and stirring halfway.
Option 2 – Direct from Freezer
Microwave on high for 8 minutes with the lid on.
Then lift a corner of the lid to vent and continue heating for another 4–5 minutes.
Check the centre with a fork to ensure it’s hot throughout.
MEAL POUCHES
Option 1 – Stove Top (Recommended)
Place the sealed pouch into a saucepan of simmering water, fully submerged.
Simmer for 10 minutes, then using tongs, gently squeeze the pouch to check for cold spots.
Return to the saucepan and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to ensure contents are piping hot.
Carefully remove and open using scissors. Pour contents into a bowl or over your preferred starch (rice, pasta, mash, etc.).
Option 2 – Microwave
Stand the sealed pouch upright in a microwave-safe bowl (Pyrex is ideal).
Slightly open the zip lock to allow airflow.
Microwave on high for 10 minutes.
Carefully squeeze the pouch (use a tea towel to avoid burns) to check if contents have thawed.
Continue heating for an additional 5 minutes.
Once hot, open the pouch fully and pour contents into a bowl or over your base.
Option 3 – Defrost Overnight
Defrost the pouch in the fridge overnight.
Pour contents into a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Alternatively, transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and microwave on high for 3–4 minutes, stirring halfway.
MICHELS FAMILY MEAL TRAYS
Our chef-prepared family trays are designed to make mealtimes easy. Follow the instructions below to enjoy them at their best.
Defrosting First
If frozen, defrost overnight in the refrigerator.
Do not defrost on the bench as this can encourage bacteria to grow.
Once defrosted, cook within 24 hours.
Heating Instructions from Defrosted
Preparation
Remove the plastic lid.
Cover the tray with a layer of baking paper, then aluminium foil.
Stage One
Place the covered tray into a moderate oven (170 °C).
Heat for approximately 20–30 minutes.
Stage Two
Remove foil and baking paper.
Increase oven to 180–190 °C.
Heat for a further 15 minutes uncovered, until hot and lightly browned.
Food Safety
Always check the meal is piping hot in the centre before serving.
The internal temperature should reach 75 °C or above.
For roasted meats and fish, check earlier to prevent drying out.
Do not reheat more than once.
Refrigerate any leftovers within 2 hours.
Best Practice – Serving Suggestions
Family style: Serve directly from the tray or transfer into a warmed serving dish for presentation.
Finishing touches: Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Pairings:
Roast meals: add fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Pasta & casseroles: pair with garlic bread or a green salad.
Fish: serve with citrus and light sides.
Please Note
These instructions are a guide only. Ovens vary, so heating times may need adjustment. Always follow safe food handling practices.