I remember the first time I tried cooking canned beets in the microwave. I was a bit skeptical at first, wondering if it would turn out as delicious as the traditional stovetop method. But you know what? It actually exceeded my expectations! Not only was it quick and easy, but the beets turned out tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy beets, then look no further. In this article, I’m going to share with you my go-to method for cooking canned beets in the microwave. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients and equipment on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
– A can of beets (you can choose sliced or whole, depending on your preference)
– A microwave-safe dish (glass or ceramic works best)
– Salt, pepper, and any other seasonings of your choice
Step 1: Drain and Rinse the Beets
To start, open the can of beets and pour the contents into a colander. Give them a good rinse with cold water to remove any excess brine or syrup. This step helps to reduce the sodium content and also eliminates any tinny taste that might come from the can.
Step 2: Season and Transfer to the Microwave-Safe Dish
Once the beets are well drained, season them with a pinch of salt, pepper, or any other seasonings you prefer. Feel free to get creative here! You can add a dash of garlic powder, a sprinkle of dried herbs, or even a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for an extra kick of flavor. Toss the beets gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasonings.
Next, transfer the seasoned beets to a microwave-safe dish. Make sure the dish is large enough to accommodate all the beets without overcrowding. Overcrowding the dish can lead to uneven cooking, so it’s best to use a slightly larger dish than you think you might need.
Step 3: Cover and Microwave
Now it’s time to cook those beets! Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. This helps to create a steamy environment that will aid in cooking the beets evenly.
Place the dish in the microwave and set the cooking time. Canned beets are already cooked, so you only need to heat them through. I usually start with 3-4 minutes on high power and adjust the time as needed. Remember, microwaves can vary in power, so it’s essential to keep an eye on the beets as they cook.
Step 4: Check for Doneness and Serve
After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the dish from the microwave using oven mitts or a kitchen towel – it will be hot! Gently stir the beets to ensure even cooking. At this point, you can test for doneness by piercing a beet with a fork. If the fork slides in easily, they are ready to go. If not, return them to the microwave for another minute or two.
Once the beets are tender, it’s time to serve and enjoy! You can enjoy them hot or cold, depending on your preference. They make a fantastic addition to salads, sandwiches, or even as a side dish alongside your favorite proteins.
Conclusion
Cooking canned beets in the microwave is a quick and easy way to enjoy this nutritious and vibrant vegetable. With just a few simple steps, you can have tender and flavorful beets on your plate in no time. So the next time you’re in a hurry or don’t want the hassle of stovetop cooking, give the microwave method a try – you won’t be disappointed!