MICROWAVE TRICKS

[b-man]

MICROWAVE TRICKS

It cooks, reheats and defrosts. And, with a little know how, you can
do even more with your microwave oven. Read on:

EXTEND THE SHELF LIFE OF MILK FOR 10 DAYS. Before the expiration
date (and if it's not spoiled), microwave milk --- in its carton or
microproof container --- on High until the temperature reaches 160
degrees on an instant-read thermometer (1 cup of milk takes about 1
1/2 minutes). Don't let the milk boil. Refrigerate immediately.

SOFTEN BROWN SUGAR. Microwave package of brown sugar on High for 15-30 seconds or until soft. Don't let sugar liquiefy.

FRESHEN SOGGY PEANUTS. Spread in a microproof baking dish.
Microwave, uncovered, on High for 3 minutes per cup or until hot,
stirring once; let cool.

ROAST GARLIC. Place a whole unpeeled bulb on a paper towel.
Microwave on High for 1 minute; turn bulb upside-down, then microwave
a ninute more. Squeeze cloves; softened garlic will pop out.

RIPEN AN AVOCADO. Microwave avocado on Medium (50%) for 2 minutes. Turn over, microwave 1 minute more.

DRY FRESH HERBS, GRATED LEMON OR ORANGE PEEL. Wash herbs, then blot dry. Spread herbs or peels on a paper towel. Microwave on High for
1-2 minutes or until dried, stirring every 30 seconds. Cool; store
in a tightly covered container.

BRING EGG WHITES TO ROOM TEMPERATURE BEFORE BEATING FOR GREATER VOLUME. Place 1 to 4 egg whites in a microproof bowl. Microwave, uncovered, on Low (10%) for 15-30 seconds per egg white, stirring every 15 seconds, until chill is off.

COOK SPAGHETTI OR SMALL PASTA: Place 4 cups hot water and 2 cups dry pasta (7-8 ounces) in a microproof, 2-quart casserole. Microwave,
uncovered, on High for 14 minutes or until tender; drain. Serve.

MAKE A PIE CRUST: Blend 1/4 cup margarine, 2 tablespoons sugar and 1
1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs in a microproof, 9-inch pie plate.
Microwave, uncovered, on High for 2 minutes. Stir crumbs, then press
evenly onto sides and bottom of pie plate. Microwave on High 2
minutes more, rotating once. Cool before adding filling.


All of these tips were tested in a high wattage oven.