As I stood in front of my microwave, fish fillets in hand, I realized I had no idea how to properly cook them. I didn’t want to go through the hassle of using the stovetop or the oven, and that’s when I thought, why not try microwaving them? So I did some research, gathered some tips from expert cooks, and embarked on a culinary adventure with my fish fillets and microwave. In this article, I will share with you my journey and provide you with some quick and easy cooking tips on how to microwave fish fillets.
Gather Your Supplies
Before diving into microwaving your fish fillets, there are a few supplies you’ll need to ensure success:
– Fish Fillets:
Choose your favorite fish fillets, whether it’s salmon, tilapia, or cod. Make sure they are fresh and of good quality.
– Microwave-Safe Dish:
Select a microwave-safe dish large enough to fit your fish fillets comfortably. This dish should have a lid or a microwave-safe cover.
– Seasonings and Herbs:
Gather your preferred seasonings and herbs to add flavor to your fish fillets. Lemon juice, garlic, dill, or just a pinch of salt and pepper can transform your dish.
– Lemon Slices:
Lemons are fantastic companions to fish, so having some lemon slices handy will enhance the flavors.
– Butter or Olive Oil:
Adding a touch of butter or drizzling some olive oil can bring richness and moisture to your fish fillets.
Now that you have your supplies ready, it’s time to move on to the next step.
Preparation is Key
Preparing your fish fillets before microwaving them is crucial to achieve delicious and evenly cooked results. Here’s what you need to do:
– Thaw if Frozen:
If your fish fillets are frozen, make sure to thaw them before microwaving. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or defrosting them in the microwave using the “defrost” setting.
– Rinse and Pat Dry:
Give your fish fillets a quick rinse under cold water to remove any unwanted residue. Then, gently pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure even cooking.
– Season to Taste:
Sprinkle your preferred seasonings and herbs onto the fish fillets. It’s all about personal preference, so be generous with your chosen flavors.
Microwaving Your Fish Fillets
Now that your fish fillets are prepared, it’s time to cook them in the microwave. Follow these simple steps:
– Place the Fish Fillets:
Arrange your seasoned fish fillets in the microwave-safe dish in a single layer. Make sure they are not overlapping to ensure even cooking.
– Add the Butter or Olive Oil:
If you want to add some richness and moisture to your fish fillets, place a small knob of butter or drizzle some olive oil on top of each fillet.
– Lay the Lemon Slices:
Lay a couple of lemon slices on top of each fillet. The citrusy aroma will infuse into the fish as it cooks, complementing the flavors beautifully.
– Cover the Dish:
Cover the microwave-safe dish with its lid or use a microwave-safe cover to trap the steam and ensure the fish stays moist. If you don’t have either, you can use microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for the steam to escape.
– Microwave Time:
Set your microwave to medium power (50-70%) and cook the fish fillets. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. As a general guideline, microwave them for about 2-4 minutes per inch of thickness. To ensure doneness, you can use a fork to gently flake the fish. If it flakes easily, it’s ready!
– Let It Rest:
Once your fish fillets are fully cooked, let them rest in the covered dish for a couple of minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the fish stays moist.
Enjoy Your Microwaved Fish Fillets
After following these quick and easy cooking tips, you can now savor your perfectly microwaved fish fillets. They are tender, flavorful, and require minimal effort. You can serve them as a standalone dish, alongside a fresh salad, or nestled in a warm tortilla for a delicious fish taco.
Microwaving fish fillets might seem like a cooking method reserved for convenience, but with the right techniques, it can turn into an impressive culinary endeavor. So next time you find yourself facing a time crunch or simply wanting to explore a different cooking technique, give microwaving a try. Your taste buds will thank you!