I remember the first time I tried cooking beets in the microwave. I wasn’t sure if it would work, but I was in a hurry and didn’t have time to roast them in the oven. So, I decided to give it a shot. To my surprise, cooking beets in the microwave turned out to be a quick and easy method that produced tender and delicious results. In this article, I will share with you how long to cook beets in the microwave and the simple steps to follow.
Preparing the Beets
Step 1: Choose the Right Beets
Before we dive into the process of cooking beets in the microwave, it’s important to choose the right beets. Look for beets that are firm, smooth, and have vibrant colors. Avoid beets that have soft spots or are discolored.
Step 2: Wash and Trim the Beets
Once you have selected your beets, give them a good wash under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can use a vegetable brush to scrub off any stubborn dirt. After washing, it’s time to trim the beets. Cut off the tops and the roots, leaving about an inch of stem attached to the beets.
Step 3: Prep the Beets for Microwave Cooking
After trimming the beets, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Next, place the beets on a microwave-safe plate or a microwave-safe dish. Make sure the beets are evenly spaced and not touching each other. This will allow them to cook more evenly.
Cooking the Beets in the Microwave
Step 1: Add Moisture
To ensure that the beets cook evenly and stay moist, it’s important to add a little bit of moisture. You can do this by adding a tablespoon of water to the plate or dish where the beets are placed. This will create steam and help cook the beets more efficiently.
Step 2: Cover the Beets
Cover the beets with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help create a steamy environment and trap the heat, allowing the beets to cook faster. If you are using plastic wrap, make sure to leave a small vent to allow some steam to escape.
Step 3: Cook the Beets
Now that the beets are prepped and covered, it’s time to cook them in the microwave. The cooking time will depend on the size and quantity of the beets. As a general guideline, you can cook medium-sized beets for about 6-8 minutes on high power. For larger beets, you may need to increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the lid or plastic wrap, keeping your hands away from the steam. Insert a fork or a sharp knife into the thickest part of the beets to check for doneness. The beets should be tender and easily pierced. If they are not done yet, cover them again and continue cooking in the microwave for another minute or two, until they are cooked to your desired tenderness.
Serving and Storing the Beets
Once the beets are cooked to perfection, remove them from the microwave and let them cool slightly before handling. You can enjoy the beets immediately as a side dish, or use them in salads, soups, or other dishes. If you have leftover cooked beets, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
Conclusion
Cooking beets in the microwave is a convenient and time-saving method that yields delicious results. By following a few simple steps, you can have tender and flavorful beets in just a matter of minutes. So, the next time you’re in a hurry or don’t feel like turning on the oven, give the microwave method a try. You might be pleasantly surprised by the outcome.