After an evening of good food, the leftovers are all you can think about the next day. Even though it’s the next day the same taste is expected. Don’t waste any food, eat leftovers. Some food items re-heat better than others. But, it could be due to you doing it wrong. There are some extra steps you could do to get the same taste as the night before. Since the microwave is the most common heating device. Here are ways to heat better with it.
Reheat in Intervals
Many meals only require a set timer and a start button. You are able to walk away and come back to a perfectly heated meal. But with large meals, this will not work. A 30 second to 1-minute rotating strategy is required. If your microwave spins that is great, but still, re-heat in intervals.
Break Apart the Meal
Taking the food out of your storage container and breaking it apart will also result in a properly heated meal. For example, rice and noodles should be spread apart on a flat surface. If you have a burger, the bun and toppings should be separated from the patty. The patty should also be heated for more time than the toppings and bun.
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Moisture
Anything heated takes a chance of being dried out. Just like your hair, food can be dried out by heating as well. Luckily, this is an easy fix for food. To avoid this problem, add a little water or any extra sauces you have when heating up your leftovers.
Use the Correct Containers
Don’t be lazy, if the take-out container looks like it will melt in the first 5 seconds take your food out before heating. These non-microwavable containers are usually made with toxins that will contaminate your food in the microwave. Paper bags are also a NO. Use microwave-safe ceramic or glass plates and bowls to reheat.
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Spread in Even Layers
This is important for large portions. Also for grounded meats and veggies. Spread the food on a plate for even heating. The outsides of the meal will still heat faster. Therefore, you should rotate and stir as well.
Even with these microwave tips, reheating in the microwave is not always the best answer. I’ll also share a list of food items that are best reheated in a toaster oven. They are: baked goods, breads, fried or breaded foods, roasted or grilled meats, pizza, and grilled sandwiches.
Hopefully these tips help and less food is being wasted. Save all extra food and enjoy it the following days.
