Soften Hard Ingredients
Tired of waiting for butter to soften or dealing with rock-hard brown sugar? The microwave is your secret weapon. For butter, microwave it on low power
in short bursts of 5-10 seconds, checking in between to prevent melting. For brown sugar, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and add a damp paper towel. Microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until soft, then use immediately. This method works well with honey and other sticky ingredients too. The aim here is to gently rehydrate the ingredients, restoring them to their ideal texture. This ensures you have ingredients ready to use without having to wait for them to soften naturally.
Steam Vegetables Quickly
Microwaving vegetables is a fast and efficient way to cook them while retaining nutrients. Place your chosen veggies in a microwave-safe dish with a tablespoon or two of water. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Cook on high for a few minutes, checking for doneness. The exact cooking time depends on the vegetable and the desired level of tenderness. This method works well for broccoli, carrots, and green beans, and allows you to preserve color, flavor, and nutrients. By creating a steamed environment, you can achieve a tender-crisp result without added fats.
Revive Stale Chips
Don't toss out those stale chips! Your microwave can breathe new life into them. Place the chips on a microwave-safe plate and microwave them on high for short intervals of 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to prevent burning. The goal is to remove excess moisture and restore their original crispness. Be cautious, as overcooking will make the chips hard and unpalatable. This method is particularly useful for party snacks or leftovers. Remember that results might vary depending on the type of chips. The microwave helps to dry out the chips, bringing them back to life and enjoyable.
Sanitize Cutting Boards
Keep your cutting boards clean and germ-free with this simple microwave hack. After washing your cutting board with soap and water, add a little water, then place it in the microwave. Heat it on high for about 1-2 minutes. The heat will kill bacteria and sanitize the surface. Be careful when removing the board, as it will be hot. This technique works effectively for plastic cutting boards and also helps eliminate odors. Ensure the cutting board is completely dry before use. This hack is a convenient way to maintain kitchen hygiene and safety with items used daily.
Cook Garlic Effortlessly
Need to soften garlic for a recipe? The microwave can help. Place whole garlic cloves in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for short intervals of 10-15 seconds. This will soften the garlic, making it easier to mince or chop. This process is great when time is limited or when you are trying to avoid using the stove. The microwave helps to warm and soften the garlic quickly without losing its flavor. For extra flavor, you can wrap the cloves in a damp paper towel before microwaving. Always be careful when handling hot garlic.
Quickly Dry Herbs
Preserve fresh herbs for future use with the help of your microwave. Place the herbs on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels. Microwave them on high in short bursts of 30-60 seconds until they are dry and brittle. The time will vary depending on the herbs. Monitor them closely to prevent burning. Once dried, crumble the herbs and store them in an airtight container. This method works well for basil, parsley, and other herbs, allowing you to enjoy fresh flavor throughout the year. This microwave hack maintains flavor, and color while also extending the life of the herbs.
