Although microwaves are typically associated with reheating leftovers, their abilities extend far beyond that. From making popcorn to mug cakes and beyond, there are countless ways to utilize this versatile appliance in the kitchen. For 10 ingenious microwave tricks that will revolutionize your cooking game, check out Taste of Home’s helpful guide.
Reduce Onion Tears
Microwaving your whole onion for 45 seconds prior to cutting it can break down its chemicals and lower the likelihood of tearing up. But in case this method fails, you could opt for Danby’s Food Chopper as an alternative.
Peel Garlic
Attention, vampires! Don’t be intimidated by the thought of peeling garlic. Simply microwave an entire bulb for 20 seconds to soften it, and you’ll find that peeling becomes effortless. The skin of the cloves will come off smoothly, without leaving any mess or the usual sticky and pungent garlic residue.
Squeeze More Citrus Juice
Extract the maximum amount of juice from citrus fruits like lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits. Whenever a recipe requires citrus juice, microwave the fruit for roughly 10 to 20 seconds, then cut it in half and start squeezing. It’s a breeze to do, and you’ll be able to get every last drop of juice out of the fruit!
Revive Stale Bread
Revive your stale bread to its former glory! Take a damp paper towel, wrap it around the bread, and put it on a microwave-safe dish. Microwave on high for 10 seconds. For even better results, place a glass of water in the microwave along with the bread to add more moisture and softness.
Proof Dough
Few things are more satisfying than the aroma and taste of freshly baked bread. However, finding a warm spot for it to rise can be a challenge during colder months. Here’s a simple solution: Heat a bowl of water in the microwave for two minutes, then place your bread inside along with the warm bowl of water. Voila! You’ve created the ideal conditions for your bread to double in size.
Cook Beans
Save time by skipping the overnight soaking process for beans. Simply put them in a large microwave-safe bowl, fully submerged in water, and heat for around 8-10 minutes, or until the water starts boiling. After that, the beans will be ready to use in just an hour or two.
Dry Herbs
No need to wait for your herbs to dry in the oven or hang them upside-down. Opt for a quicker and more efficient way by microwaving them! The electromagnetic radiation from the microwave helps evaporate water from the herbs, preserving their essential oils that provide their distinctive flavors and scents.
Froth Milk
Craving a creamy latte with froth? You can be your own barista at home without needing a frother. Here’s how: Take a glass jar and fill it halfway with milk, then microwave it for a minute until hot. Screw the lid tightly and shake the jar vigorously for 30 seconds. Finally, pour the milk into a mug, add espresso, and savor your delicious latte!
Bake Potatoes
For a quick and easy baked potato, start by pricking a clean and dry potato with a fork. Place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat for approximately seven minutes. Once it has cooled down a bit, cut it with a butter knife, and add a generous amount of cheese, sour cream, chives, and butter to your liking!
Make Potato Chips
Craving homemade potato chips but don’t have a deep fryer? No worries! Start by thinly slicing a russet potato, then drizzle the slices with vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt. Lay them out on a microwave-safe dish and zap them for around five minutes until they turn golden and crispy. Enjoy your tasty and healthier version of potato chips!
A microwave is an essential appliance in any kitchen. However, with so many styles, sizes, and features available, finding the perfect microwave for your space can be overwhelming. To simplify your search, explore Danby’s diverse range of microwave options by clicking here. Read the original blog here.