10 Best Foods to Cook in a Microwave

The ten best foods to cook in a microwave

Cooking with a microwave can be a fast and easy alternative to using a traditional oven or cook-top. However, there are some limits as to what you can cook in the microwave. Here is a breakdown of the best foods to cook in a microwave.

1. Baked potatoes

Baked potatoes are a tasty and easy meal, but baking a potato in the oven can take up to an hour. Microwave-baked potatoes are a time-saver. Just pierce the potato with a fork, wrap it in a damp paper towel, and microwave until tender (this should take less than ten minutes). If you do prefer a crispy skin, just pop in a hot oven for around 15-20 mins.

2. Eggs

You can make almost any egg-based dish in the microwave. Make an easy omelet by cracking an egg into a microwave-safe container, and add any seasonings, vegetables, bacon or cheese.

Stir periodically for even cooking. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage, so it’s a good idea to start with shorter cooking intervals and adjust as needed to achieve the desired firmness.

3. Porridge

Making a bowl of porridge is easy in the microwave. Combine oats and water or milk, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Top with fresh fruit or cinnamon for a healthy start to your day.

4. Steamed vegetables

Microwave steaming is quick and preserves the nutrients in vegetables. Place them in a microwave-safe container with a small amount of water, cover, and steam until tender.

5. Cauliflower cheese

Start by placing cauliflower florets in a microwave-safe dish with a little water, cover them, and microwave until the florets are tender. Meanwhile, prepare the cheese sauce by melting butter in a microwave-safe bowl, whisking in flour, and adding milk to create a smooth sauce. Microwave the sauce until it thickens, then stir in shredded cheese.

After draining the cooked cauliflower, combine it with the cheese sauce. This microwave cauliflower cheese makes for a simple and delicious side dish or vegetarian main.

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6. Soup in a mug

You can make a quick cup of soup in the microwave by combining broth, vegetables, and other ingredients in a microwave-safe mug.

Or, combine a packet of dehydrated soup with water, stir, and microwave for two minutes or until hot

7. Frozen meals

Many frozen foods like frozen vegetables, burritos, and microwaveable meals are designed to be cooked in a microwave for convenience.

Read the cooking instructions on the packet and follow carefully. Be sure to remove any plastic or foil if necessary.

8. Popcorn

Microwave popcorn bags are widely available, and they offer a convenient and quick way to enjoy a snack.

Place the popcorn packet in the glass dish and set the timer. Allow the packet to cool slightly before shaking to evenly coat butter. Try adding some powered sugar, salt or extra butter for a flavour boost.

9. Chocolate self-saucing pudding

Making a chocolate self-saucing pudding in the microwave is a quick and convenient way to satisfy your dessert cravings.

• Combine dry pudding ingredients (flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, and salt) in a microwave-safe bowl or mug.
• Add milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
• Sprinkle a mixture of sugar and cocoa over the batter.
• Pour boiling water over the entire mixture without stirring.
• Microwave on high for 1.5 to 2.5 minutes until the pudding rises and sets.

10. Mug cakes

Packet, microwave mug cakes are a quick and fun dessert option. Mix the ingredients in a microwave-safe mug and cook for a short time until it rises and sets.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, optionally with ice cream or whipped cream.

Is microwave cooking safe?

Most people have heard rumours about microwaves and radiation. However, microwaves use a safe type of non-ionizing radiation. This means they are safe to use and you won’t end up glowing in the dark.

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About the author of this page

This report was written by Canstar Content Producer, Caitlin Bingham. Caitlin is an experienced writer whose passion for creativity led her to study communication and journalism. She began her career freelancing as a content writer, before joining the Canstar team.