Unlocking the Ultimate Microwave Hacks: Creative Ways to Cook Foods Not Recommended for Microwaves

When it comes to cooking, the microwave is often overlooked as a tool for reheating leftovers or making popcorn. However, with a little creativity and some handy hacks, you can use your microwave to cook a variety of foods that are typically not recommended for microwaving. From seafood to raw meats, these tips will help you unlock the full potential of your microwave and make meal prep easier than ever.

Seafood in the Microwave

Seafood is often considered a no-go in the microwave due to its delicate texture. However, with careful timing and the right preparation, you can enjoy perfectly cooked seafood straight from your microwave.

• Shrimp: Place a pound of shrimp in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of water or broth, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and cook on high for 2-3 minutes. Let it stand for a few minutes before checking if they’re cooked through.
• Fish: Similar to shrimp, fish can be cooked in the microwave by adding a little liquid, covering the dish, and cooking on high. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fish, but a good rule of thumb is 4-5 minutes per half-inch of thickness.

Cooking Raw Meats

While it’s not typically recommended, raw meats can be cooked in the microwave if done correctly. The key is to use a lower power setting to ensure the meat cooks evenly.

• Chicken: Place chicken pieces in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and cook on medium power (50%) for about 14 minutes per pound, rotating the dish a few times for even cooking.
• Ground Beef: Crumble the beef in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and cook on high for 3-4 minutes. Stir, re-cover, and continue cooking on high for 2-3 more minutes or until no pink remains.

Other Foods

There are also other foods that you might not think to cook in the microwave, but with these hacks, you can save time and effort.

• Rice: Combine 1 cup of rice, 2 cups of water, and a half teaspoon of salt in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and cook on high for 10 minutes, then on medium power for 15 minutes. Let it stand for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
• Potatoes: Prick the potato all over with a fork, then microwave on high for 5 minutes. Turn over and continue to cook for 5 more minutes. Let it stand for a few minutes before cutting open.

With these tips and tricks, you can turn your microwave into a versatile cooking tool. Remember, the key to successful microwave cooking is to monitor your food closely to prevent overcooking. Happy microwaving!