Why warming food in the microwave is not always ideal
Microwaves are a common kitchen device that are very useful for reheating leftovers. But did you know that microwaving your food may not be the best option? One of the reasons is that microwaves do not distribute heat evenly, which can result in hot spots that can burn your mouth. Additionally, heated plates can become quite hot and even end up melting plastic containers or warping metal dishes. The best way to reheat food on a plate in the microwave requires following some simple tips.
The best way to reheat food on a plate in the microwave
One of the simplest and most effective ways to warm up your meal in the microwave is to cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel. This will trap the heat and ensure even heating throughout the dish. Another great tip is to arrange the food in a circular pattern, leaving the middle empty to help distribute the heat evenly. If possible, it is also recommended to stir the food halfway through the cooking process.
Other useful tips for warming up leftovers in the microwave
For dishes that require a bit more moisture, you can add a few drops of water to avoid drying them out when microwaving. You can also try using a microwave-safe dish with a lid that has a vent to allow steam to escape. This will keep the food moist and prevent excess moisture from building up and causing sogginess. For dishes with sauces or gravies, keep them separate and add them once the food is heated up, so you don’t end up with one section overheating and becoming dried out.
When to avoid reheating food in the microwave
Although the microwave can speed up the reheating process, not all foods should be zapped in a microwave. Fried foods or anything with a crispy coating can become soggy after being in the microwave, so it is best to use a toaster oven or oven to reheat these kinds of dishes. Also, dishes that have been sitting at room temperature for too long or have been in the fridge for several days should be reheated following proper food safety guidelines.
The bottom line
The best way to reheat food on a plate in the microwave is to use a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to trap the heat and ensure even heating throughout the dish. It is also best to arrange the food in a circular pattern, leaving the middle empty to help distribute the heat evenly, and stir it halfway through the cooking process. Follow these tips, and you’ll never have to deal with dried-out, poorly reheated leftovers again!
