I have always been a fan of grilling. There is something so satisfying about the sizzle of meat on a hot grill and the smoky aroma that fills the air. However, there are times when the weather doesn’t cooperate or I simply don’t have access to a traditional grill. That’s when I turn to my trusty microwave oven.
Yes, you read that right. I grill beef in my microwave oven. Now, before you dismiss this idea as crazy, let me explain. While a microwave oven may not be the first choice for grilling enthusiasts, it can actually work wonders if you know how to use it properly. In fact, the microwave can be a convenient and efficient alternative to traditional grilling methods. So, let me walk you through the step-by-step guide on how to grill beef in a microwave oven.
Gather the necessary ingredients and equipment
Before we get started, make sure you have everything you need:
Ingredients:
Equipment:
Prepare the beef
Once you have all the ingredients and equipment ready, it’s time to prepare the beef for grilling:
1. Choose the right cut:
Select a cut of beef that is suitable for grilling. Popular choices include ribeye, flank steak, and tenderloin. Make sure the cut is not too thick, as microwave grilling works best with thinner pieces of meat.
2. Marinate or season:
Give your beef some flavor by marinating it or seasoning it with your favorite spice rub. Let it sit in the marinade or seasoning for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3. Oil and season:
Before grilling, lightly brush the beef with olive oil to prevent it from drying out. Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
Set up the microwave
Now that your beef is ready, it’s time to set up your microwave for grilling:
1. Choose the right dish:
Select a microwave-safe dish that is large enough to accommodate the beef without overcrowding. It should have sides that are high enough to catch any drippings.
2. Elevate the beef:
Place a grill pan or a microwave-safe wire rack inside the dish. This will elevate the beef and allow the heat to circulate evenly.
Grill the beef
With everything in place, it’s time to start grilling:
1. Preheat the microwave:
Set your microwave to its highest power setting and preheat it for a few minutes. This will ensure that it reaches the ideal temperature for grilling.
2. Arrange the beef:
Place the seasoned beef on the elevated grill pan or wire rack in the microwave-safe dish. Make sure there is enough space between each piece for the heat to circulate.
3. Start grilling:
Put the dish with the beef in the microwave and close the door. Set the cooking time according to the thickness of the beef and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, microwave thin steaks or burgers for 2-4 minutes on each side.
4. Check the temperature:
Halfway through the cooking time, pause the microwave and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the beef. For a medium-rare steak, aim for 135°F (57°C). Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
5. Let it rest:
Once the beef reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the microwave and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy steak.
Final tips
Here are a few additional tips to help you achieve the best results when grilling beef in a microwave oven:
So, next time you find yourself craving a grilled beef steak but don’t have access to a traditional grill, don’t hesitate to try grilling it in your microwave oven. With the right technique and a little bit of practice, you can achieve delicious and perfectly cooked beef without stepping foot outside. Happy grilling!