Do you have a microwave at home for ages but hardly use it? This kitchen gadget can come in handy for things more than heating your food and can make your life in the kitchen easier. In a recent Instagram video, popular chef Dean Sheremet shares interesting yet simple ways “chefs use the microwave that you should also.” Understanding how the microwave works will unlock some pretty incredible things that you didn’t know were possible, the chef writes in the caption. Watch the full video here:
5 Quick Microwave Hacks To Make Your Cooking Process Smooth And Simple:
1. Drying Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs can go bad in a few days if you don’t use them. Drying them in the microwave can help preserve these herbs “for up to 3 months”. Separate the leaves from the stalk and pop them in the microwave to dry for 3 minutes. Store in an airtight container.
Also Read: Microwave Maintenance Made Easy: 5 Tips To Keep Microwave Squeaky Clean
2. Getting The Most Juice Out Of Your Citrus
Do you struggle to squeeze the juice out of lemons? Not anymore! Put the fruit in the microwave for 20 seconds and see the magic! “After 20 seconds, the membrane of the fruit is more relaxed, allowing more juice to be extracted,” the chef shares in the video.
3. Perfectly Steamed Veggies
Put your veggies like carrots, broccoli, and beans in a microwave-safe glass bowl. Drizzle some oil and sprinkle some salt on the veggies. Mix well and cover with a microwave-safe plate. Pop it in the microwave for 2 minutes. “Contrary to what you might think, you can actually retain more nutrients in the veg by cooking it this way because you aren’t leaching out those precious vitamins into the cooking water,” the chef explains.
4. The Easiest Peeled Garlic
If you struggle with peeling garlic, then this hack is for you. Put the garlic in the microwave for 20 seconds, and then you will be able to easily “pop them right out of their skins.”
Also Read: Microwave-Safe? NOT! 5 Things Never To Put In A Microwave
5. Perfect Potato Chips
This at-home potato chips recipe is shared by the chef in a follow-up microwave hacks video. Slice a russet potato 1/4-1/8 inch thin and wash the excess starch in a bowl of water. Dry very well, lightly coat in olive oil, and place on a parchment-covered plate. Cook for 3 minutes on high, flipping once, and then for an additional 3 minutes, season with salt immediately. Your delicious, DIY potato chips are ready.
Try these microwave hacks and tell us in the comments if you find them useful.