Here’s What The Buttons On Your Microwave Really Mean
Most of us use the microwave every single day, yet we only ever utilize a few of the buttons. These machines are actually much more capable than we give them credit for. Understanding the specific settings can help you ensure your food is cooked properly and thoroughly.
Here is a helpful guide to what those mysterious buttons on your microwave actually do.
Reheat
The reheat button is specifically designed for leftovers that have already been cooked. It uses a moderate power level to warm food through without toughening the proteins or making bread items soggy.
It's much more gentle than a standard high power blast. This setting is ideal for a plate of pasta or a slice of yesterday's casserole.
Defrost
Using the defrost button is much better for your frozen meat than just hitting start. This setting uses a low power cycle to gently thaw food without actually cooking it.
Many modern machines ask for the weight of the item to calculate the perfect time. It prevents the common problem of having a chicken breast that is cooked on the outside but frozen solid inside.
Popcorn
Many people avoid the popcorn button because they fear it will burn the bag. However, newer microwaves use sound or steam sensors to listen for the popping to slow down.
If you have an older model, this button is simply a pre-set timer. It's always a good idea to stay nearby and listen for the pops to stop regardless of the setting.
Beverage
The beverage button is specifically calibrated to heat liquids like coffee or water for tea. It uses high energy to bring the liquid to a hot temperature quickly.
Be careful when using this for milk-based drinks, as they can boil over much faster than water.
Potato
Cooking a potato in the microwave is a huge time saver compared to using a traditional oven. This button is programmed to provide the intense heat needed to break down the dense starch.
Most machines assume you're cooking a medium-sized potato. For the best results, remember to poke a few holes in the skin first to release steam.
Frozen Vegetable
The frozen vegetable button is pretty self-explanatory. It's meant to heat a frozen bagged veggies, and may ask you to input the size of the bag.
To avoid overcooking, it's best to pause every minute or so and check on the doneness of the vegetables.
Fresh vegetable
This button is meant to cook raw veggies, as opposed to frozen ones. It usually takes about 2-5 minutes per cup of vegetables.
For best results, undercook veggies a little, because the steam will continue cooking them even after you take them out of the microwave.
Frozen Dinner
The frozen dinner button assumes that you are heating a traditional frozen entree. It's best for dishes that are about 10-12 ounces.
Be careful not microwave your food in plastic, as the microplastics can seep into your food. Transfer to a glass dish with a lid before heating.
Add 30 seconds
This is the most popular button for a reason, because it offers instant heat with one touch. It's perfect for small adjustments when your food is almost ready but needs just a tiny bit more time.
Many people use this as their main cooking method because it's fast and simple. It's the easiest way to operate the machine quickly.
Your microwave is a versatile tool that can do much more than just heat up cold coffee. Taking a moment to learn these buttons will save you time and improve the quality of your meals.
Don't be afraid to experiment with power levels and presets to find what works best for you.