I love apples. They are juicy, sweet, and full of flavor. There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly ripe apple and experiencing that burst of freshness in your mouth. However, sometimes I find myself with a surplus of apples and I’m not sure how to use them all before they start to go bad. That’s when I discovered the magic of steaming apples in the microwave. It’s a quick and easy method that allows me to enjoy the goodness of apples in a variety of ways. In this article, I’ll share with you my step-by-step process for steaming apples in the microwave.
Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
Ingredients:
– Apples (any variety will do)
– Water
– Optional: cinnamon, sugar, or other spices for added flavor
Tools:
– Microwave-safe dish with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap
– A sharp knife
– Cutting board
– Spoon or melon baller for removing the apple core
Prepare the Apples
The first step is to wash and dry your apples thoroughly. I like to use a mixture of water and vinegar to ensure that they are clean. Once they are dry, place them on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the apples.
Now, take your spoon or melon baller and gently scoop out the core of the apple. Be careful not to remove too much flesh, as you want to keep as much of the apple intact as possible. If you prefer, you can leave the core intact and remove it after steaming.
Cook the Apples
Now it’s time to steam the apples in the microwave. Place the prepared apples in a microwave-safe dish and add a few tablespoons of water to the bottom of the dish. This will help create steam and prevent the apples from drying out.
Cover the dish with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. If you are using plastic wrap, be sure to poke a few small holes in the wrap to allow steam to escape.
Place the dish in the microwave and cook on high power for 3-6 minutes, depending on the size and ripeness of your apples. Start with 3 minutes and check for doneness by poking the apples with a fork. They should be tender but not mushy. If they need more time, continue cooking in 1-minute increments until they reach your desired tenderness.
Serve and Enjoy!
Once the apples are cooked to your liking, carefully remove the dish from the microwave. Be cautious when removing the lid or plastic wrap, as steam will escape and can burn your hands.
You can enjoy the steamed apples as they are or get creative and use them in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
As a healthy snack:
– Sprinkle some cinnamon and sugar on top of the steamed apples for a touch of sweetness.
– Serve them alongside a dollop of yogurt or a scoop of ice cream for a flavorful and refreshing treat.
In oatmeal or porridge:
– Chop the steamed apples into bite-sized pieces and stir them into your morning bowl of oatmeal or porridge.
– Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with nuts for added texture and flavor.
In baked goods:
– Mash the steamed apples and use them as a substitute for oil or butter in your favorite baked goods, such as cakes, muffins, or bread.
– Add them to pancake or waffle batter for a fruity twist.
Steaming apples in the microwave is a quick and easy method that allows you to enjoy the goodness of apples in a variety of ways. Whether you choose to serve them as a healthy snack, incorporate them into your breakfast, or use them in your favorite baked goods, steamed apples are a delicious and versatile ingredient. So the next time you find yourself with an abundance of apples, give this method a try and savor the natural sweetness of this versatile fruit.