How to Microwave Other Foods

Toasted Coconut

Spread 1 tablespoon of coconut evenly on a microwavable glass plate and microwave on High(100%) for 40 to 50 seconds, checking and stirring every 20 seconds. Toasted, shredded coconut is delicious sprinkled over fresh fruit salad, reduced-calorie gelatin, pudding, ice cream.

Bacon

Why pan-fry bacon when it's so much simpler to microwave it? Arrange 2 slices of bacon in a single layer on a microwavable roasting rack or on a microwavable plate lined with three layers of paper towel. Cover with paper towel to prevent spattering and cook on High (100%) for 1 to 2 minutes. For crisper bacon, let stand for 1 to 2 minutes.

Pasta and Rice

To give new life to yesterday's rice or pasta, in a 1-quart microwavable bowl arrange 1 cup of cooked pasta or rice. Cover with wax paper and microwave on High (100%) for 1 to 2 minutes for that just-cooked taste.

Instant rice is ideal for the microwave oven. Measure 4 ounces of instant rice and set in a 1-quart microwavable bowl; stir in 1 cup of hot tap water. Cover with vented plastic wrap and microwave on High (100%) for 10 minutes. Drain and serve.

Although pasta can be cooked in the microwave oven with satisfactory results, you won't save any time using this method. However, you can save time by using both range and microwave. While the pasta is cooking on the range, use your microwave for preparing the other steps in the recipe.

Scrambled Egg in a Bowl

In a small microwavable bowl, microwave 1/2 teaspoon of margarine on High (100%) for 10 seconds, until melted. Add egg and 2 tablespoons of skim, low-fat, or whole milk (or water) and beat with a fork until combined. Microwave partially covered for 1 minute on Medium-High (70%); stir and continue to cook on Medium-High, partially covered, until set, 1/2 to 1 minute. Let stand 1/2 to 1 minute before serving.

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Melting by Microwave

The microwave is great for melting chocolate, margarine, and butter. You don't even need to wait until the item is completely melted —just stir the last small pieces into the already melted mixture until it is completely smooth.

Put the "Pop" Back in Popcorn

Did you know that you can reheat cold popcorn? For each cup of prepared popcorn, microwave on High (100%) for 15 to 20 seconds to bring back that delicious just-popped flavor.

Just-Right Gelatin

Here's the simplest way we know to make gelatin dessert, using just one bowl. In a small microwavable bowl measure the water as directed on the package and microwave on High (100%), 2 to 3 minutes, until boiling. Add the gelatin and stir until dissolved. Stir in cold water or ice cubes. If the gelatin has set before you've added the other ingredients (fruit, vegetables, or nuts), soften it in the microwave (make sure it's in a microwavable container) on Medium (50%) for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes for a 3-ounce package of prepared gelatin, I to 2 minutes for a 6-ounce package. Stir in the additional ingredients and pop the gelatin mixture back into the refrigerator until it is firm.

Divine Dried Fruit

To plump dried fruit, arrange it in a 6-ounce microwavable custard cup, sprinkle with a small amount of water, and microwave on High (100%) for 15 to 30 seconds.

Succulent Citrus

Want to get more juice out of lemons, limes, and oranges? Microwave on High (100%) for 15 to 30 seconds before squeezing.

Barbecued Chicken

Tired of the long wait for that family favorite, barbecued chicken? While the grill is heating, partially cook the chicken in the microwave. Finish it on the grill, basting with your favorite sauce. The chicken will be done in half the time.

Softening Ice Cream

To soften a solid block of ice cream or ice milk, put the container in the microwave on Low (20%) for about 45 seconds. Scooping will be much easier.

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