You might be surprised to learn that your microwave can do so much more than just heating up frozen dinners. With these clever microwave hacks, you can unlock its full potential and discover how versatile this handy kitchen appliance can be. From softening sugar to frothing milk, whipping up French toast, and beyond, these hacks will transform the way you use your microwave.
Nuke your garlic bulbs for 15 seconds and the skin will slide off like magic. This is because the water in the garlic steams and breaks down the bonds that exist between the clove and the skin for fast removal.
2. Rescue Stale Bread
If you have forgotten to completely close your bagel or bread bag, simply wrap the loaf in a moist paper towel and zap it for twenty seconds. The moisture in the towel will soak into the bread, making it fresh again, but not soggy.
3. Juice Fruit with Ease
Before juicing a lemon or orange, microwave the uncut fruit for ten seconds. The microwave will loosen the fibers inside the fruit and make it easier to juice every last drop!
Put a handful of nuts in a microwave-safe bowl, toss with some oil, and microwave in 60-second increments, stirring after every minute. Overall cooking time depends on the type of nut, but expect it to take around 5 minutes.
5. De-clump Brown Sugar
When your brown sugar is as hard as a rock, try this. Moisten a paper towel, place it in the sugar bag, then zap in the microwave for 25 seconds. The moisture from the towel will transfer to the sugar and make it easier to scoop.
6. Smooth Crystallized Honey
If your glass jar of honey has crystallized in the back of your cupboard, simply remove the lid, and heat it in the microwave for 30-40 second increments until it returns to its original smooth texture.
Hard root vegetables and squashes can be tough to peel. To make your job easier, place the vegetable in your microwave for 2-3 minutes on power and the skin should become more pliable for peeling and cutting – just be careful when removing the hot veggie so you don’t burn your skin.
8. Cook Crispier Bacon
Place a bowl upside down on a plate. Drape the bacon strips over the bowl, then microwave for one minute per slice of bacon. As its grease drips onto the plate, the bacon will become mouth-wateringly crispy.
9. Froth Milk
You don’t need an expensive cappuccino to froth your milk. Instead, pour some milk into a mason jar, no more than half full (to leave room for foam). Screw on the lid and vigorously shake for 30 to 60 seconds. The milk will turn to froth. Remove the lid and microwave for 30 seconds so the foam rises.
10. Concoct French Toast
Care for some tasty brunch? Rub a pat of butter on the bottom of a mug; fill to the top with chopped bread. In a separate cup, mix 1 egg, 3 tablespoons milk, and a sprinkle of cinnamon with a fork. Pour the mixture into the cup and microwave for one minute.
Collard greens make delicious, healthy wraps, but are prone to cracking and splitting when stiff. To relax a leaf for a wrap, wash well and microwave for ten seconds.
12. Flavor Butter
Try this twist on classic bread and butter. Microwave 1 stick of cubed unsalted butter for 30-second intervals, until melted. Add a pinch of salt and fresh sage leaves. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until fragrant. Drizzle on bread for an earthy, savory flavor.
Source: rd
Images: depositphotos
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