The present invention relates to a browning accessory for use in a microwave oven, for substantially simultaneous microwave cooking and browning or crusting of a food item. The browning accessory includes a microwave absorbing material operative to convert microwave energy into thermal energy and having its underside uncovered, thereby being accessible to airflow inside the microwave oven, and an outer enclosure having a skirt portion extending downwards below the microwave absorbing material to reduce convection cooling of the microwave absorbing material during use of the accessory.