Microwaves have become a mainstay in many kitchens because they offer a fast and convenient way to prepare meals. From reheating leftovers to quickly cooking fresh ingredients, a good microwave can save you valuable time and energy. This article will explore the importance of quick meals, the key features to look for when choosing a microwave, and specific models that excel in speed and ease of use.
Why Quick Meals Matter
Quick meals are essential for many people who lead busy lives and want to reduce time spent in the kitchen. Instead of waiting for an oven to preheat or hovering over a stovetop, you can press a few buttons on your microwave and have a meal ready in minutes.
Busy Lives
Hectic work schedules, school responsibilities, and personal commitments can make it tough to cook elaborate meals. A microwave allows you to simplify meal prep and focus on other tasks. Some benefits of quick microwave meals include:
- Saving time: Microwaves cut down the waiting period, letting you put food on the table faster.
- Reducing cleanup: Many microwave-safe dishes can go straight from the appliance to your dining area, minimizing extra pans or utensils.
- Staying flexible: Even if you decide to eat later than planned, reheating or cooking in a microwave is quick and hassle-free.
Minimizing Prep
Microwave-friendly meals typically require fewer steps and fewer ingredients. This can be especially helpful if you want a simple cooking routine. By choosing ready-made or partially prepared items, you can eliminate extensive chopping, marinating, or measuring. Some people might opt for microwave-safe frozen dinners, which need only a short time to heat.
Top Microwave Models for Speedy Cooking
Finding a microwave that fits both your budget and your lifestyle can be challenging. Below are three popular models known for quick and easy performance, each with its own strengths and features.
Panasonic NN-SN686S
Panasonic’s NN-SN686S offers 1200 watts and inverter technology for even heating. Its 1.2-cubic-foot interior handles medium to large meals, while preset cooking modes (like popcorn and pizza) add convenience. The stainless-steel finish fits modern kitchens, and it can handle everything from softening butter to cooking full meals.
Toshiba EM925A5A-BS
The Toshiba EM925A5A-BS offers 900 watts and a 0.9 cubic foot capacity, ideal for small kitchens or dorms. Preset buttons (popcorn, pizza, one-touch start) simplify quick heating, and its power-saving mode helps conserve energy. Despite its lower wattage, it efficiently handles everyday tasks like reheating and defrosting.
Samsung MG11H2020CT
Samsung’s MG11H2020CT features a grilling element and 1000 watts of power for crisp, browned results. Its 1.1 cubic foot interior fits average-sized dishes, while the ceramic enamel surface simplifies cleaning. Preset programs handle tasks like warming rolls or defrosting meats, and the combined button-and-dial control panel makes time adjustments easy.
Additional Microwave Options
If none of the above models suit your preferences, consider exploring these additional options. They each come with unique attributes that might align better with your personal cooking habits.
GE Profile PEB9159SJSS
The GE Profile PEB9159SJSS is a built-in or countertop model that operates at 1000 watts. It features sensor cooking controls, which detect the moisture levels in your food and adjust the cooking time accordingly. This can be helpful if you want to avoid dry or unevenly heated meals. It also has a spacious 1.5 cubic foot interior, making it a solid choice for family-sized portions.
Breville Quick Touch BMO734XL
Breville’s Quick Touch microwave stands out for its user-friendly interface. It comes equipped with a knob that lets you select specific cooking tasks—like reheating, defrosting, or cooking vegetables—and automatically adjusts power levels. The 1100-watt output provides decent speed, while the stainless-steel design adds a premium feel. If you appreciate clear displays and intuitive controls, this model could be a good match.
Key Microwave Features
When selecting a microwave, it helps to understand which features will most impact your cooking routine. While every model has its own perks, certain qualities often prove more useful than others. Below are the main points to keep in mind.
Wattage
Wattage refers to the cooking power of the microwave. In general, a higher wattage means:
- Faster heating: Your food will warm up more quickly and evenly.
- Better performance with dense items: Foods like frozen meats may defrost more effectively in a higher-wattage microwave.
Capacity
Microwave capacity is typically measured in cubic feet. Models range from small (around 0.7 cubic feet) to large (1.5 cubic feet or more). A larger capacity can accommodate bigger dishes, but it also takes up more counter space. Ask yourself these questions to determine the right capacity:
Preset Cooking Functions
Preset cooking options allow you to heat common foods with one touch. Examples include popcorn, pizza, beverages, and specialized defrost settings. These presets are not essential, but they can simplify your routine if you frequently cook or reheat particular items. Presets can also help you avoid overcooking, as the microwave is programmed to deliver the right amount of heat for those foods.
Best Practices for Microwave Use
Owning a microwave is only half the battle. Using it wisely and maintaining it properly can extend its life and guarantee better cooking results. Below are some crucial tips to keep in mind.
Safe Container Choices
Selecting the right container can prevent accidents and ensure your food is heated evenly. Look for microwave-safe labels on your dishes and wraps. Some key points include:
- Use only microwave-safe plastics, glass, or ceramic: This avoids harmful chemicals leaching into your food.
- Avoid metal or aluminum foil: Metals can cause sparks and damage the microwave.
- Check for cracks: Damaged containers can leak chemicals or cause hot spots in your food.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular upkeep keeps your microwave running well and helps you avoid unpleasant odors. Consider these simple steps:
- Wipe up spills immediately: This stops grime from hardening and becoming harder to remove.
- Use steam for stubborn stains: Heat a bowl of water (with lemon slices if desired) to loosen dried-on food.
- Clean removable parts: The turntable and other accessories can be washed separately in warm, soapy water.
Defrosting Tips
Using the microwave to defrost food is a major time saver, but you must do it correctly to maintain food safety. Make sure to separate meat pieces when possible to help them thaw more evenly. If your microwave has a defrost setting, use it to reduce the power level. This setting allows the outer layers of the food to melt more slowly, preventing them from partially cooking while the inside remains frozen. Always cook or refrigerate thawed food promptly to avoid bacteria growth.
Conclusion
Microwaves make cooking faster and simpler. Whether you have a busy schedule or just want less time in the kitchen, pick a microwave with the wattage, capacity, and preset functions that suit your routine. Popular models like the Panasonic NN-SN686S, Toshiba EM925A5A-BS, and Samsung MG11H2020CT excel for everyday use, while the GE Profile PEB9159SJSS and Breville Quick Touch BMO734XL offer more specialized settings. Be sure to use microwave-safe containers, maintain a clean interior, and take advantage of defrost features. With these tips, you can enjoy quick and reliable cooking for years to come.
