10 Surprising Uses for Your Microwave You Never Knew About
Whether you're reheating leftovers or making quick ramen, there are plenty of ways to get the most out of your microwave.
However, there are some things you should avoid using in the microwave. Specifically, aluminum foil and plates with metal rims can cause sparks that could damage your appliance or start a fire.
Rehydrate Beans
Soaking beans in water is one of the most important steps you can do to make them palatable and tasty. It also helps to break down starches inside the beans that cause gassiness and upset stomachs. If you are looking for affordable microwaves then check out the Betta Home Living Promo Code.
Soaked beans are much more tender than dried ones that haven't been soaked in water. You want to soak dry beans for at least 5 or 6 hours — ideally 12 — so that the water can penetrate the shell and soften them.
Once the beans are rehydrated you can cook them quickly and easily using your microwave. This method is not only faster but also preserves more nutrients than other methods of cooking.
Rejuvenate Honey
Honey crystallizes when it sits in a jar or squeeze bottle for an extended period. This can be a big pain, especially if you’re looking for a specific amount of honey to use in a recipe or drink.
Thankfully, there is a solution to this problem. Simply recrystallize your honey using slow, controlled heat.
To do this, transfer your jar of hardened honey to a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup and microwaving in short bursts at low power settings. Stirring between each cycle will help prevent overheating and burnt sugar.
Clean Sponge
Sponges are a staple in every kitchen and they're great at wiping up messes. However, they can also be a breeding ground for yeasts and molds.
A study by Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists found that even a single sponge can contain more than 362 different types of bacteria, NPR reports. That's why it's important to clean your sponges regularly.
You can disinfect your sponge with heat and water, vinegar, or bleach. Bleach kills viruses and mold, while vinegar removes bacteria and mildew.
Make Lemonade
Lemonade is the perfect drink to soothe a sore throat on a hot day. It is also an easy recipe to make with kids.
To make homemade lemonade, you need a few ingredients, including water and sugar. Then, you can add lemon juice and simple syrup to create the perfect drink.
Keep the ingredients cool before serving to prevent bacteria from growing. It’s best to refrigerate the lemonade until ready to serve and serve it over ice.
Before making lemonade, zest the lemons to remove the seeds and white rind. This is easy to do with a Microplane.
Make Jam or Marmalade
The microwave is an ideal way to make jam or marmalade in small batches. It makes cooking down a few cups of fruit quick and efficient, producing a thick and concentrated jam in about 15 minutes.
You don't need any special jam sugar or setting agents for this recipe, as oranges have plenty of pectins to work with. You can use any kind of sweetener you prefer, too—brown sugar, agave, honey, or even maple syrup all work well.
Place the fruit in a large microwave-safe bowl, along with water and sugar. Cook the mixture on high for 15-20 minutes, uncovered, stirring every few minutes to ensure it doesn't boil over.
Defrost Meat
If you’re thawing meat in the microwave, it's important to get it done right. If you don't, bacteria will begin to grow and make the meat unsafe to eat.
The safest way to defrost meat is in the refrigerator, but if you don't have access to a fridge or want to avoid waiting for your frozen food to thaw, the microwave is your best bet.
To defrost meat in the microwave, thaw it for 8 to 10 minutes per 0.5 pound of frozen meat (this can vary depending on your microwave's power and the weight of the food). Keep an eye on your meat and rotate every 1 1/2-2 minutes to make sure it's thawing evenly.
Clean Frozen Food
There are a few things you should know about cleaning frozen foods in the microwave. First, it's important to remove the freezer wrap before heating any food to ensure that all the contents are evenly heated and thawed properly.
Second, you should clean the interior of your microwave after defrosting food to prevent cross-contamination. This includes removing meat juices that can splatter, per WebMD.
One solution for getting rid of stubborn stains and food residue on the inside of your microwave is a mixture of baking soda and water. This creates a mist that softens the particles, allowing you to easily wipe them away. If you want to save huge money then check out the Electronics Voucher Code.
Reheat Frozen Pizza
Reheating frozen pizza can be a great way to enjoy a slice of fresh pizza without leaving your house. It’s also a great way to save money on your grocery bill and avoid food poisoning.
To reheat a slice of pizza, place it on a microwave-safe plate and heat it at a high temperature for about 45 seconds. You can also place a glass cup of water alongside the pizza to absorb some of the microwave rays and make it heat slower and more evenly.
Another great way to reheat a frozen pizza is to cook it in a skillet on the stovetop. This method keeps the crust crisp while thoroughly heating the cheese and toppings. You can even add a bit of water to the skillet before cooking, which creates a steamer that will ensure your toppings are hot and crunchy.
Rejuvenate Fruit
One of the best uses for your microwave is to rejuvenate fresh fruit, which enables you to make tasty and healthy entrées regularly. A well-executed fruit bowl will also save you a small fortune on your next trip to the grocery store or farmers market. Using the right equipment and the right mindset, you can transform a good day at the office into a granddaddy of all meals. In the aforementioned morn, you can even have some fun with it by combining your favorite ingredients into a single smorgasbord worthy of a well-earned cocktail or two.
Clean Your Microwave
There are a few ways to get your microwave clean without the use of toxic chemicals. These methods are quick and easy, and won't hurt your wallet or your environment.
You can use lemon, which is a natural deodorizer and disinfectant. Simply mix the juice of one lemon with a half cup of water and steam the mixture inside your microwave for about 5 minutes.
The steam will loosen any residue and food stains inside your microwave, as well as lift lingering odors.
You can also use white vinegar to clean the interior of your microwave or a combination of diluted white vinegar and water. Just make sure to heat the mixture on high and allow it to generate steam for a few minutes.
Conclusion
Microwaves can be used for more than just reheating leftovers. From disinfecting sponges and cutting boards to making DIY popcorn and drying herbs, this kitchen appliance has many surprising uses that can make your life easier and more efficient. Give these tips a try and see what other creative ways you can use your microwave.
