Five Things You Didn't Know You Could Do with Your Microwave

By Hklbrries

Go beyond the basics of reheating leftovers with these surprising shortcuts.

Toast Nuts:

Forget preheating the oven just to make a small batch of aromatic nuts. Instead, spread any variety you like in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each. When nuts are crunchy and smell toasty (3 to 8 minutes, depending on your microwave), they're ready for a starring role in your morning oatmeal.

Froth Milk for Your Latte:

You don't need to be a barista - or invest in special equipment - to create airy foam. Fill a small lidded jar halfway with milk, then cover and shake until the milk becomes frothy, about 30 seconds. Remove the lid and microwave for 30 seconds. Pour the milk into your coffee, holding back the foam with a spoon, then scoop foam on top.

Poach eggs:

Whip up a speedy lunch: Crack an egg in a microwave-safe bowl or mug, then pour in 1/3 cup water and 1/2 tsp vinegar. Cover with a microwave-safe plate and cook for 1 minute at 80 percent power. Check the egg; continue cooking 20 seconds at a time, until it reaches your desired state of doneness.

Make Single Serve Mac and Cheese:

Get both the convenience of the boxed stuff and the satisfaction of homemade with this 10-minute dinner. Combine 1/2 cup macaroni pasta, 1/2 cup water, and 1/2 tsp salt in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high in 2-minute intervals, stirring between each, until pasta is al dente, 6 to 8 minutes. (Add 2 tbsp water, if needed, to fully cook pasta). Stir in 1/4 cup milk and 1/4 to 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Microwave for 30-second-intervals, stirring between each, until the cheese melts into a rich sauce.

Pop Corn:

No need to buy pricey (and preservative-filled) bags of microwave popcorn when you can make your own. Add about 1/4 cup kernels to a large microwave-safe bowl and set a plate slightly askew on top. Or fill a brown paper bag with about 1/4 cup of kernels and fold the top of the bag over a couple of times. Microwave for 2 to 3 minutes or until most of the kernels have popped. Remove and sprinkle as desired with butter, salt, and other toppings.

Ingredients

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Preparation

Step 1

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