10 Surprising Ways You Can Use Your Microwave

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Microwave ovens are staple appliances in most households, revolutionizing how we cook and reheat food. But did you know that there are many other surprising ways you can use your microwave?

From cooking unconventional dishes to making everyday tasks easier, here are ten unexpected uses for your microwave.

Softening Brown Sugar

If your brown sugar has become hard as a rock, you can quickly soften it in the microwave. Cover the sugar in a microwave-safe bowl with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 20-30 seconds and let it sit for a minute before using. The moisture from the paper towel will help soften the sugar, making it easier to use in your recipes.

Peeling Garlic

Peeling garlic can be tedious, but your microwave can make it much easier. Place the unpeeled garlic cloves in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, and the skin will slide off effortlessly. This trick also works for peeling onions.

Sterilizing Sponges

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Sponges are notorious for harboring bacteria, but microwaves can help sanitize them. Place a wet sponge in the microwave and heat it on high power for two minutes. The heat will kill most of the germs and bacteria in the sponge, making it safe to use again.

Reviving Stale Bread

If your bread has become stale, you can revive it by sprinkling some water on it and heating it in the microwave for 10-20 seconds. The steam from the water will help soften the bread and make it taste fresh again.

Making Homemade Potato Chips

Instead of buying store-bought potato chips, you can make your own in the microwave. Slice a potato thinly and place the slices on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave for 3-4 minutes or until crispy, and you have homemade potato chips without any added oil.

Removing Stickers

Removing stickers from jars or containers can be frustrating, but microwaves can make it easier. Place the item with the sticker in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. The sticker will peel off effortlessly without leaving any residue behind.

Drying Herbs

Drying herbs in the microwave is a quick and easy way to preserve them. Lay out clean herbs on a paper towel and microwave for one minute at a time until dry and crispy. Store in an airtight container, and you’ll have fresh herbs for cooking all year round.

Preparing Artichokes

Cooking artichokes can be time-consuming, but your microwave can cut the prep time in half. Place a trimmed artichoke in a microwave-safe bowl with a bit of water, cover with plastic wrap, and cook on high power for 6-7 minutes. Let it stand for a few minutes before unwrapping to let it finish cooking.

Toasting Nuts

Toasting nuts adds extra flavor to recipes but can be tricky without burning them. Spread nuts on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in one-minute intervals until they are toasted to your liking. This method is quick and easy, with no risk of burnt nuts.

Making Hot Water Bottles

Instead of using hot water bottles for sore muscles or cramps, you can make your own in the microwave. Fill a clean sock or similar clothing with uncooked rice and tie the end tightly. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, and you have a homemade heating pad that stays warm longer than traditional hot water bottles.