
Microwaves are one of the most underutilized appliances in most kitchens. They’re not just for reheating leftovers or nuking popcorn. In fact, with a little imagination and some ingenuity, you can use your microwave to cook dinner, bake snacks, or even make cocktails. Here are 10 genius hacks to use your microwave that you probably never thought of before.
Use your microwave to make dinner.
By far, the most obvious use for your microwave is as a tool for cooking dinner. Many microwave recipes are healthier than their stovetop counterparts. You can even bake in a microwave without having to turn on your oven.
Microwaves are powerful enough to steam vegetables for soups and stews, and to cook grains like quinoa and rice without the risk of burning them.
How to reheat leftovers without ruining them
Reheating leftovers in a microwave oven can turn them rubbery and soggy. Here’s how to reheat leftovers in your microwave without ruining them. Place the food in a microwavable dish and cover it with a few paper towels.
This will help keep the food moist while it reheats. Microwave it on high, covered, for a third of the time it would take to cook the food from scratch. For instance, if it takes 10 minutes to cook the food from scratch, then microwave it for 3 minutes.
Baked goods in a microwave? Yes, you can!
You can actually bake cakes, cookies, and muffins in a microwave. But be careful—microwaves work by exciting water molecules and creating steam, which means recipes that rely on oil or butter to bind together will turn into a big, oily mess.
For a microwave-friendly cake, use a lower-fat recipe, like a cheesecake or pound cake. You can also use a microwave-safe silicon mold to help contain the batter. For cookies, you can use silicon molds or an oven-safe bowl.
Once the batter is in the microwave, the whole surface will brown like it would in the oven, creating a crispy cookie on the outside and a soft, gooey interior.
Microwave hacks for baking and more
The next time you want to bake something, try microwaving it first. This will help the batter rise evenly in the oven. Microwaves are also powerful enough to kill bacteria, making them great for sanitizing kitchen tools and chopping boards that might have come into contact with raw meat.
It takes just a few seconds to kill salmonella, e-coli, and other harmful bacteria that might be lurking in your kitchen. And if you’re running late for work and don’t have time to wait for your coffee to brew, you can actually speed up the process by microwaving a pot of water with a coffee filter inside of it. Just be sure to use a very low power setting so the water doesn’t boil.
Microwave Defrost food with your microwave.
Microwaves are actually really good at defrosting food. The microwaves break up the ice crystals that form when food is frozen, so they can be more easily melted away. This can be a useful tool to help defrost foods like frozen meats or bread.
Just make sure you put your food in a microwave-safe dish and set the microwave on low power to avoid cooking your food before it defrosts. When defrosting food in a microwave, be sure to check on it every 30 seconds to a minute to make sure it isn’t overheating or getting too warm.
For instance, microwaving a frozen chicken breast for 10 minutes at full power will cook it through, while defrosting it at a low setting may take much longer.
Microwave cocktails
Who says you have to go to a bar to get a nice cocktail? A microwave can do the trick, too. There’s nothing fancy about this trick—just combine your ingredients in a microwaveable bowl, cover the top with a paper towel, and microwave for a minute or two.
This is a good way to infuse flavor if you want to make your own syrups or flavored oils. You can also use a microwave to make tea. Put your loose leaves in a microwavable cup and add a splash of water.
Microwave for 30 seconds to a minute, depending on how strong you like your tea. You can also try microwaving water with citrus peels. Though it’s not exactly a cocktail, it’s a great way to infuse flavor into water.
Microwave Over the Range: More Space-Efficient Microwaves That Will Save You Money
Microwaves are efficient, fast, and affordable ways to cook food. You can also get them over the range if you have a double wall oven or some other unique configuration that makes it impossible to install the microwave under it.
The pros of having a microwave over the range are that it’s much easier to see and use while preparing food. It’s also safer because you won’t have to worry about opening the oven door too much or leaning over it to check your food — making this a great option for anyone who has limited mobility in their kitchen.
The cons of going with an over-the-range model include limited capacity (compared to one installed under the counter) and difficulty seeing inside. The following tips will help you make sure your next over-the-range microwave is spacious, efficient, and cost-effective.
Check the dimensions and capacity.
When you measure, measure twice and make sure the microwave you choose will actually fit in the space. It’s better to measure the area than rely on the manufacturer’s dimensions; manufacturers often list the dimensions of the microwave, not the space required.
Over-the-range microwaves are available in a variety of widths, from 16 inches up to 24 or even 30 inches. While it’s true that 18- to 20-inch microwaves are standard in most kitchens, keep in mind that the height will vary too.
For capacity, you’ll want to make sure that you have enough room for your dishes of different shapes and sizes. The minimum amount of space needed per plate is usually 10 inches.
Look for key features.
You may never have considered some of the features that would actually improve your microwave experience. There are several key features that you should look for in an over-the-range microwave.
Detectors: Microwave sensors are a must. They are especially helpful for people with poor hearing or who are hard of hearing and don’t have an auditory warning when their food is ready. Microwave sensors can be used for a variety of foods, including popcorn, frozen foods, soups, and more.
Turntable: A turntable is necessary for any microwave, but especially one that is over the range. It allows the microwaves to circulate evenly, so your food doesn’t get cooked in one area—whether the microwave is on the top or the bottom of your unit.
Cleaning: You’ll want to look for a microwave that is easy to clean. This means that it has a non-stick interior, preferably with a steam clean setting. Sensor Cooking: Some microwaves allow you to choose a specific cook time or use the sensor to tell it how much food is in the microwave and choose the time accordingly. This can be an incredibly helpful feature if you’ve got several people in your household with different cooking times.
Choose the right wattage.
Wattage is the amount of electrical power used by the microwave; it determines how quickly the microwave will cook your food. Most microwaves available today are around 1000 watts, but you may want to choose a higher wattage for more power.
It’s also important to consider the size of your microwave when choosing a wattage. For example, if you have a large bowl that needs to be microwaved, you don’t want to be left with a microwave that isn’t powerful enough to complete the task.
Additionally, high-wattage microwaves typically cost more than low-wattage versions. So, if you decide to go for a higher wattage, you may want to factor in the added cost.
Check the brand and warranty.
While you shouldn’t base your decision solely on the brand name, it’s important to consider the reputation of the manufacturer. You don’t want to end up with a microwave that breaks down after a few months or, even worse, one that has a fire hazard.
When looking at different brands, make sure to check customer reviews. They can be very helpful in determining the quality of a product. When it comes to the warranty, you’ll want to make sure that it covers all the parts that should be covered — especially if you’ll be using it for several years.
5 Reasons You Need a Microwave Stand in Your Kitchen
Microwave stands are the perfect addition to any kitchen. If you’re thinking of buying a new home or remodeling your existing one, it’s time to put new ideas into practice. Because of their compact size, microwaves tend to take up a lot of space on most kitchen counters.
Fortunately, there are many affordable solutions for placing your microwave in an alternate location as well as adding a stand for storing other kitchen appliances. Here are five reasons why you need a microwave stand in your kitchen.
Installing a microwave stand can help you save counter space.
Most microwaves come in at a standard width of about 18 inches. That’s already a significant amount of space to fill on your kitchen counter. If you have a small kitchen, that’s one more thing you have to consider. If you have a large family, you may find that you need even more counter space than usual.
Installing a microwave stand can help you conserve space and declutter your counters in the process. A microwave stand is often only as wide as the microwave itself. This means that you can easily put it in an out-of-the-way area of your kitchen, such as a pantry or even a corner of your kitchen.
Having a Microwave Stand Means You Have a Dedicated Storing Spot for Other Kitchen Appliances.
Microwave stands aren’t just for hiding your microwave. They can also be used as a home for other small kitchen appliances, such as a blender, toaster, or coffee maker. If you don’t have a dedicated spot for these small appliances, they can easily be pushed to the side or piled on your counter.
The last thing you want is to trip over these appliances when making a meal. A microwave stand provides an excellent place to keep these appliances organized and off of your counter.
The best part about this setup is that you can simply lift the appliances off the stand when you need to use them. Since they’re sitting on a lower surface, it makes them easy to reach when you need them. You’ll no longer have to struggle to find what you need while having to step over other appliances in the process.
There are many stylish options for microwave stands.
Microwave stands come in a variety of materials and finishes, so you can easily find one that matches your kitchen décor. You can choose between metal, wood, or even bamboo microwave stands.
Each of these materials has its own merits and certain situations where it’s the best option. Metal stands are often the most durable and are an excellent choice if you have small children who might bump into them.
If you have small children, you may also want to consider a wooden stand because it’s softer and more likely to prevent injury. Bamboo can be a great option as it’s very durable, easy to clean, and looks fantastic.
If you’re concerned about cleaning your microwave stand, you can always opt for a removable one. Removable stands let you easily wipe down the surface or place it in the dishwasher as needed. This can be especially helpful when kids are around.
A Microwave Stand is the Perfect Place to Keep Your Toaster or Rotisserie Oven.
A microwave stand isn’t just for microwaves. They can also be the perfect place to keep a toaster, rotisserie oven, or even a blender. Keeping those appliances on a stand next to your microwave means that you can easily transition between the two.
If you have a rotisserie oven, you may want to consider a stand that’s made for that specific appliance. If you tend to use your microwave and toaster at the same time, this can be an excellent option for keeping them both in one place and off your counter.
Since you can easily access both appliances from the same stand, you don’t have to worry about accidentally knocking over a toaster while microwaving your food.
Which Microwave Should You Buy? A Comparison Between Top Brands
When it comes to buying a microwave, you’ll find that there are many different brands you can choose from. Even though there are so many brands, they all have something unique to offer.
They all have their own selling points, such as their design, safety features, and ease of use. You should keep these things in mind before choosing the best company for your needs.
If you’re wondering what makes one brand better than another, then you’re in the right place! In this article, we will be comparing some of the top brands of microwaves on the market today. We will also highlight why one might be a better fit for your needs than others.
Samsung Microwaves
Samsung is one of the most recognizable brands in the microwaving industry. Not only are they one of the top brands in the USA, but they have an international presence as well.
What makes Samsung microwaves stand out is their innovative features, modern design, and high power capability. Samsung offers a diverse selection of microwaves. This means that they have models that are suitable for any kitchen or décor.
Their microwave line is focused on giving customers a wide range of options. The microwaves are available in different colors and styles.
These options include stainless steel microwaves, glass microwave ovens, and microwaves with stainless steel or glass exteriors. Samsung microwaves are focused on delivering high-quality results.
They do so by using high-quality parts and components. The electronic controls are sealed to prevent damage from moisture, bacteria, and wear and tear. These microwaves also have an overheat protection feature.
This feature automatically shuts the microwave down if it gets too hot. The stainless steel and glass microwaves are also known for their impressive look and design. This is especially true for the models that come with a glass door.
The electronic features and controls are also designed to meet stringent standards. These features include high power capability, durability, and easy-to-use controls.
Microwaves from LG Electronics
LG Electronics is a well-known appliance company. They sell a wide range of products, including refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, and dryers. LG has been manufacturing quality products since 1946.
Their line of microwaves is no exception. LG microwaves are known for their high quality and innovative features. This includes their LG-exclusive features, Smart Mode cooking, and the Quick Clean Mode. The LG microwave oven line is available in a variety of colors and styles.
These microwave ovens are available in multiple capacities. This way, you can choose the model that best fits your needs. The LG microwave ovens also come in a variety of different sizes.
This means that you can choose the model that best fits your kitchen and countertop. Like all LG products, the LG microwaves are designed to provide high-quality results. This is because they use high-quality parts and components.
The electronic controls and filters are also sealed to prevent damage from moisture, bacteria, and wear and tear. LG microwave ovens are also well-known for their attractive appearance and design.
This includes models with a stainless steel exterior and a black interior. These models come with a door that can be installed as a window. This way, you can also see the food as it cooks inside the microwave oven.
Panasonic Microwaves
Panasonic is another popular brand in the microwave industry. They sell a wide range of products, including vacuum cleaners, kitchen appliances, and refrigerators. Panasonic has been manufacturing quality products since 1919.
Their microwave line is no exception. Panasonic microwave ovens are known for their high power capability. This means that they can produce high amounts of heat.
This heat is needed to evenly cook the food inside the microwave oven. The Panasonic microwave ovens are also easy to use. This includes the controls and features that are designed for easy operation.
The Panasonic microwaves are available in a variety of different colors. This allows you to find a model that matches your kitchen and décor.
Panasonic microwaves are also known for their impressive looks and designs. This includes models with a stainless steel exterior and an interior that is coated with a scratch-resistant coating.
The interior can be customized with different colored inserts. The Panasonic microwaves are also Energy Star certified. This means that they are designed to use less energy than most other microwaves.
Sharp Microwave
Sharp is a well-known brand in the kitchen appliance industry. This brand sells a wide variety of products, including refrigerators, cooktops, and dishwashers. Sharp has been manufacturing quality products since 1897.
Their microwave ovens are no exception. Sharp microwaves are known for their high power capability. This means that they can generate high amounts of microwave energy.
The Sharp microwaves are also easy to use. This includes the controls and features that are designed for easy operation. The Sharp microwaves are available in a variety of different colors.
This helps you easily choose a model that matches your kitchen and décor. Sharp microwaves are also known for their impressive look and design. This includes models that come with a stainless steel exterior and a black interior.
Whirlpool Microwaves
Whirlpool is a well-known brand in the home appliance industry. This brand sells a wide variety of products, including refrigerators, washers, dryers, and microwaves. Whirlpool has been manufacturing quality products since 1898.
Their microwave line is no exception. Whirlpool microwave ovens are known for their high power capability. This means that they can produce high amounts of microwave energy.
The Whirlpool microwave ovens are also easy to use. This includes the controls and features that are designed for easy operation. The Whirlpool microwaves are available in a variety of different colors. This helps you easily choose a model that matches your kitchen and décor.
Whirlpool microwaves are also well-known for their attractive appearance and design.This includes models that come with a stainless steel exterior and an interior that is coated with a scratch-resistant coating.
Tefal Microwaves
Tefal is a well-known brand in the kitchen appliance industry. This brand sells a wide variety of products, including refrigerators, cooktops, and blenders. Tefal has been manufacturing quality products since 1934.
Their microwave line is no exception. Tefal microwave ovens are known for their high power capability. This means that they can produce high amounts of microwave energy.
The Tefal microwaves are also easy to use. This includes the controls and features that are designed for easy operation. The Tefal microwaves are available in a variety of different colors.
This helps you easily choose a model that matches your kitchen and décor. Tefal microwaves are also well-known for their attractive appearance and design.This includes models that come with a stainless steel exterior and a black interior.
Bosch Kitchen Appliances
Bosch is a well-known brand in the kitchen appliance industry. This brand sells a wide assortment of products, including refrigerators, induction cooktops, dishwashers, and microwaves.
Bosch kitchen appliances are known for their high power capability. This means that they can produce high amounts of microwave energy. The Bosch microwave ovens are also easy to use. This includes the controls and features that are designed for easy operation.
The Bosch microwave ovens are available in a variety of different colors. This helps you easily choose a model that matches your kitchen and décor.
Bosch microwave ovens are also well-known for their attractive appearance and design.This includes models that come with a stainless steel exterior and a black interior.
These are just a few of the top brands of microwaves. There are many other brands of microwaves that are available for purchase.
Some of the most popular brands include GE, Sharp, and Breville. Each of these brands has a unique selling point and a unique feature that makes them stand out from the rest.
Which Microwave Is The Best?-A Review Of What Makes The Top Three Models Stand Out
With so many microwaves on the market today, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In addition, each model is designed for specific needs and uses. This article is a review of the top three microwaves in 2019.
It will focus on what makes them stand out from the crowd, and what features you need to consider before buying one. With that being said, let’s take a closer look at each model so you can make an informed decision.
Samsung SM6SHHWE Side by Side Microwave
The Samsung SM6SHHWE is a step above the rest when it comes to features and performance. It features six preset cooking modes and a turntable to evenly cook a variety of foods.
The turntable can be used to cook pizza, macaroni and cheese, ice cream sandwiches, rice, and more. Furthermore, the microwave is sleek and modern. It measures just 3.2 x 3.2 x 7.3 inches, and it weighs just over 3 pounds.
It also has a 600-watt heating power, making it ideal for cooking large quantities of food. The microwave has 1000 watts of power and 1500 watts of power, which are great if you want to heat up a large amount of water quickly or heat food while it’s being steamed.
The microwave also comes with a 24-hour timer, so you can set it and forget it. Its interior is easy to clean, and there are multiple power levels and buttons so you can easily navigate the settings. This microwave also comes with a 10-year limited warranty.
Samsung SM3SPFSSS Compact Microwave
The Samsung SM3SPFSSS is a compact microwave that features a sleek design, and a cooking area that measures 12 by 9.6 inches. It also has an interior that measures 9.6 inches by 7.3 inches, which should be able to fit almost any dish.
Furthermore, the microwave is designed for one person to use, which is convenient for smaller kitchens. It has a 1500 watt heating capacity and a 700 watt defrost setting.
In addition, it has four power levels, that can be easily adjusted with push-button controls. To prevent food from exploding during cooking, the microwave is fitted with a turntable.
This rotates at high speeds to evenly distribute the heat. The microwave also comes with a one-touch digital display, which displays the selected cooking mode, cooking time, and other information.
This microwave also has a 17-hour timer and a retain function. The retain function will keep the microwave on for the remaining time, until you press the button again to stop the cycle.
This is useful for when you’re away from home. The microwave also has an easy-to-clean interior, which can be removed for thorough cleaning.
Panasonic NN-SD930SES Nano Vision (VNC)
If you are looking for a compact microwave with advanced technology, the Panasonic NN-SD930SES is a great option. The microwave is fitted with Nano Vision technology, which uses a camera to monitor the inside of the microwave and adjust settings accordingly.
This means you don’t have to worry about overcooking your food. Furthermore, the microwave also has a sensor that detects how much water you are using and adjusts the power accordingly.
This means you can use less water and save money without affecting the taste or texture of your food. The microwave also has a delay start function, which can be set to begin after a preset time. This is useful if you need to prepare dinner ahead of a planned event and don’t want to stress about it.
The microwave has a 1.9 cubic foot capacity, so it can fit a lot of food. It also has three power levels and a Turbo Heat function, so you can quickly heat up a variety of foods. The microwave also has a digital display that has a timer function and cooking information. It also has a removable stainless steel interior for easy cleaning.
Panasonic NN-SDU5046SES Ultramode Compact
The Panasonic NN-SDU5046SES is a compact microwave that is ideal for small kitchens. It has an interior that measures 6.3 inches by 4.6 inches, and it weighs 2.8 pounds. Furthermore, the microwave has a 700 watt heating power and a delay start function, which can be set to begin after a preset time.
This is useful if you need to prepare dinner ahead of a planned event and don’t want to stress about it. The microwave has a one-touch digital display, so you can easily navigate the settings.
It also has a 24-hour timer, a sensor cooking function, and a turbo heat function. The Sensor Cooking function detects how much water you are using and adjusts the power accordingly.
This means you can use less water and still have a tasty meal without affecting the texture of your food. The microwave also has an easy-to-clean interior, and a stainless steel exterior, so it can be easily wiped down if needed.
Bottom Line
When shopping for a new microwave, you want to make sure it meets your specific needs. This means you need to consider the size of your cooking area, whether you have a small kitchen, or a large household.
You also need to think about your budget and whether you need a compact model, or a larger one. However, once you have these factors in mind, you can start to shop for the best microwave for your needs.
These reviews have provided you with an overview of the top models. we have highlighted what makes each model stand out, and provided a detailed overview of their key features.
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