The microwave is an indispensable appliance in any kitchen. It's quick, convenient, and perfect for those times when you need a meal in a hurry. While it's often associated with reheating leftovers or popping a bag of popcorn, the microwave can actually be used to cook a variety of foods from scratch. We'll explore seven common foods that you can easily master in the microwave. Get ready to transform your microwave cooking game!
Potato Fries
Ingredients:
- 2 large potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional seasonings (e.g., paprika, garlic powder, rosemary)
Method:
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into thin, uniform strips to resemble fries.
- Place the potato strips in a microwave-safe bowl and drizzle them with olive oil.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings over the potato strips.
- Toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Arrange the potato strips in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave on high power for 4-5 minutes, or until the fries are golden and crispy, pausing to flip or stir them halfway through.
- Let the potato fries cool for a minute before serving as a delicious side dish or snack.
- Enjoy your homemade potato fries with ketchup, aioli, or your favourite dipping sauce!!
Scrambled Eggs
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional toppings (e.g., cheese, chopped vegetables, herbs)
Method:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- If desired, add any toppings you like, such as cheese, chopped vegetables, or herbs.
- Microwave the mixture on high power for 30 seconds.
- Stir the eggs gently with a fork and microwave for another 30 seconds.
- Repeat the stirring and microwaving process in 30-second intervals until the eggs are cooked to your desired consistency.
- Serve the scrambled eggs hot with toast or as a filling for breakfast burritos.
Mug Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Method:
- In a large microwave-safe mug, combine the macaroni and water.
- Microwave on high power for 2 minutes, stir, and then microwave for another 2 minutes.
- Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Microwave for an additional 1 minute or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Allow the mac and cheese to cool for a minute or two before serving.
Steamed Fish Fillet
Ingredients:
- 1 fish fillet (e.g., salmon, cod, tilapia)
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Method:
- Place the fish fillet in a microwave-safe dish.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the fillet and season with salt, pepper, and any desired fresh herbs.
- Cover the dish with microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
- Microwave on medium-high power for 3 minutes.
- Check the doneness of the fish by gently flaking it with a fork. If needed, microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes until cooked through.
- Let the fish rest for a minute before serving it with steamed vegetables or rice.
Oatmeal
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup water or milk
- Sweetener of your choice (e.g., honey, maple syrup, brown sugar)
- Toppings (e.g., fruits, nuts, cinnamon)
Method:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the rolled oats and water or milk.
- Microwave on high power for 1 minute.
- Stir the oatmeal and microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the oats are cooked and the mixture has thickened.
- Sweeten the oatmeal to your liking and add your favourite toppings.
- Allow it to cool slightly before digging in.
Mug Brownie
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons milk
- A few drops of vanilla extract
- Optional toppings (e.g., whipped cream, ice cream, chocolate chips)
Method:
- In a microwave-safe mug, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, flour, salt, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Microwave on high power for 1 minute. Check the centre with a toothpick; if it comes out with moist crumbs, it's done. If not, microwave for another 15-30 seconds.
- Let the brownie cool for a minute or two before adding any desired toppings.
- Enjoy the warm and gooey mug brownie straight from the microwave!
With these seven recipes, you'll be able to create delicious meals and snacks using just your microwave. From hearty potato fries to comforting mug brownies, the microwave has endless culinary possibilities. So, embrace the convenience, experiment with flavours, and start mastering these common foods in the microwave today!