10 Microwave Tricks

1: Toasted coconut and nuts

Toasting coconut flakes and nuts enhances their flavor, but their high fat content makes them prone to burning on the stovetop or in the oven. Microwave them in 30-second intervals until the coconut flakes reach your desired color and the nuts are toasted and fragrant.

2: Frothing milk

Want to make cappuccino but don't have the right equipment? Fill a lidded mason jar halfway with milk and shake vigorously. Remove the lid, microwave for 30 seconds, then pour the milk into the coffee. Top with foam using a spoon, if desired.

3: Dried herbs

Do you have a bountiful harvest of herbs in your garden? Place fresh herbs on a paper towel, cover with another towel, and microwave in 30-second intervals until the herbs are dry. Transfer to a sealed container and store at room temperature. This method also works for citrus zest.

4: Peeling the garlic

Place the head of garlic in the microwave for 20 seconds, after which you can easily separate the skin.

5: Softening Kale

We love using leafy greens as a sandwich base. Wash the leaves thoroughly, arrange them in a circle, and heat for 10 seconds to soften and make them pliable.

6: Boiled condensed milk

If you want to make dulce de leche but don't want to boil a sealed jar, pour the condensed milk and sugar into a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and microwave in 2-minute intervals, stirring after each addition until you reach your desired consistency.

7: Cleaning the corn

While this trick is less practical than simply shucking corn by hand, it's useful when you need to quickly cook and shuck corn cobs. Using a serrated knife, cut off the root end and microwave the whole cob for 2-4 minutes (depending on your oven). Then, gently shake the cob from the base until the husks separate.

8: Poached Egg

To quickly poach an egg, crack the egg into a bowl or mug with 1/2 cup water and cover. Microwave for about a minute if you want a runny yolk, or in 10-second increments for a firmer consistency.

9: Fresh homemade cheese

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup milk and 1 tablespoon lemon juice (and a pinch of salt) and microwave for 2 minutes. Stir to separate any clumps of whey, then strain through cheesecloth to your desired consistency.

10: Potato chips

It's possible! Thinly slice the potatoes using a grater, rinse well, and dry thoroughly. Brush with olive oil and arrange on a plate. Cook for 3 minutes, then turn over and cook for another 3 minutes.