How to Survive Without a Microwave

Most people cannot survive without their microwave. As our days become more hectic, we often rely on this contraption to cook our food quickly. How did we survive before the microwave took over the kitchen? I am just recently finding out. I moved from an apartment with a built-in microwave hood to an older house, when I realized I no longer have one. While I may get a microwave in the future, I don't feel I really need one -- I have learned how to survive without a microwave.

Warming Leftovers

I am a fan of leftovers, but I have always re-heated them in the microwave. While they can be warmed in the oven on a tray, it is not really an efficient use of energy in the kitchen. However, I have a toaster oven that works perfectly for heating leftovers, as well as toasting bread. I don't have a traditional pop-up toaster, either.

Heating Water for Tea

It may be convenient to heat water for tea in the microwave, but there are other ways to warm it up, as well. Take the tea kettle, for example -- since I drink a lot of tea, I have been contemplating buying a kettle just for this purpose. In the meantime, I can always boil a small pot of water on the stove top burner.

Making Popcorn

Until I learned how harmful microwave popcorn is to my health, I used to eat a lot of it. Now, I make my homemade popcorn in an air popper. They do not cost much, and this way doesn't take much longer to pop it. If you have a little extra time, try popping it on the stove top for a light, airy snack.

Cooking Frozen Dinners

Although frozen dinners are not necessarily healthy, they can be a quick, convenient meal when you are in a hurry. While they may cook more quickly in the microwave, frozen food tastes a lot better out of the oven or a toaster oven. Since the microwave cooks food so quickly, it often ends up with a strange, rubbery texture.

Thawing Meat

Sometimes I forget to thaw meat in the refrigerator, but it can be hard to retain the quality if it is thawed in a microwave -- especially if the heat is set too high. If at all possible, give the meat a day or two to soften. If you need it to thaw in a few hours, place the meat in a leak-proof bag and fill up your sink with cold water -- not warm. Change the water every 30 minutes until the meat has thawed.

With a little patience, it is possible to survive without a microwave.