Microwave is not only for reheating leftovers, and defrosting and melting foods. It can do incredible things that will help you cut your kitchen time in half.
Many people use microwave without realizing that they have a really efficient appliance. With that in mind, I have created a list of ten microwave tricks that will make your kitchen time easier.
1. Juice
Want a fresh orange or lemon juice, but have no juicer at home? Before reaching for that cup of coffee or tea, give this microwave trick a try.
Microwave the whole lemon or orange for 10 seconds to make it quicker and easier to juice. Microwaving helps to loosen the fruit’s fibers, preparing it for fast juicing.
2. Froth milk for cappuccinos and latte
Since not every one of us can afford a cappuccino machine, this microwave trick may come in handy next time you want to enjoy a cup of cappuccino or latte.
Fill a mason jar no more than half full with milk. Shake for a minute to create a foam and then microwave for another 30 seconds to increase the foam. Don’t forget to remove the lid.
3. Peeled garlic
The next time you need a lot of peeled garlic, microwave garlic bulbs for 10-15 seconds, depending on the size. The heat will draw out moisture out of garlic cloves, and the skin will instantly slide off in a jiffy. What can be easier?
4. Cucumbers
If your aim is peeled cucumbers, or you just want to slice them faster, microwave them for 2-3 minutes on low power.
Let it cool for a few seconds and peel or slice. You can use this trick with pumpkin and carrots as well.
More: 8 Healthy Reasons to Eat Cucumbers
5. Crispy bacon
Turn a small bowl upside down and put it on a plate. Place 2-3 bacon strips over the bowl and microwave for a minute or two, depending on what bacon strips you have. You will get extra crispy bacon that is much tastier than the pan-fried version.
6. Quinoa
Eating healthy does not have to be time-consuming. Quinoa is one of the most powerful superfoods that you should be eating more. The great news is, you can make your quinoa in a matter of a few minutes.
In a medium bowl place a half cup of quinoa and a cup of water, and microwave for 5 minutes. Stir and microwave for another 2 minutes. Let it sit for extra 5 minutes before you eat.
7. Onion
No more crying, girls. Microwave your onion for 30 seconds before you cut. Let it cool for a few seconds and chop it as you wish without shedding a tear.
8. Beans
I am often guilty of forgetting to soak beans overnight, so I take advantage of my old microwave that I have been using for 5 years already. I place a cup of beans in a large bowl, add 3 cups of water and microwave 15 minutes. Let it sit for an hour and cook as usual.
9. Honey
Before you throw out your crystallized honey, give this trick a whirl. Microwave it for 40 seconds (or more if you have a big jar) until it is liquid and smooth. Crystallized honey is still healthy and safe to eat.
More: 7 Kinds of Honey and Why It’s Better Than Sugar
10. Nuts and seeds
In a microwave-safe bowl, place nuts or seeds of your choice, drizzle some oil and salt and microwave for 50 seconds (seeds) and 2 minutes (nuts). The time depends of the type of nuts or seeds you choose.
There are many food items we can microwave to reduce our kitchen time. I highlighted some of the tricks I use on a daily basis. If you have any other microwave tricks, please let me know. I will try out the most unique ones.