I love edamame. It’s one of those snacks that you can eat mindlessly while watching a movie or reading a book. The slight crunch and the nutty flavor make it incredibly addictive. But let’s face it, sometimes we just don’t have the time or energy to boil a pot of water and steam those little green beans. That’s where the microwave comes in handy. Yes, you heard me right – you can steam edamame in the microwave, and it’s quick and easy. Let me show you how.
Gathering the Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
Equipment:
Getting Started: Preparing the Edamame
First, take the package of frozen edamame and cut it open. Pour the desired amount into a bowl. I usually use about 1 cup, but you can adjust the quantity based on your preference or the number of people you’re serving.
Once you have the edamame in the bowl, rinse it under cold water to remove any ice crystals or excess debris. This step helps ensure that your steamed edamame is clean and safe to eat.
Steaming the Edamame
Now it’s time to steam the edamame in the microwave. Fill the bowl with enough water to cover the edamame, but not too much that it overflows when it starts boiling. A good rule of thumb is to have about an inch of water above the beans.
At this point, you can add some salt to the water if you like. It gives the edamame a little extra flavor. However, this step is entirely optional. If you prefer your edamame without salt, that’s perfectly fine.
Once the water is added, cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to keep the steam inside. This is important because the steam is what will cook the edamame.
Microwaving: The Magic Begins
Place the bowl in the microwave and set the timer for 3-4 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the quantity of edamame you’re steaming.
Start with 3 minutes and check the edamame for doneness. You want them to be tender yet slightly firm, not mushy. If they need a bit more time, microwave for an additional minute and check again.
Enjoying the Steamed Edamame
Once the edamame is cooked to perfection, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave. Be cautious as it will be hot, and steam will escape when you open it. Let the edamame rest for a minute or two to cool down slightly.
To eat the steamed edamame, simply pick up a pod, gently squeeze it, and use your teeth to separate the beans from the pod. Discard the empty pod and repeat with the other ones. It’s a great activity to do while chatting or watching TV.
Feel free to sprinkle some more salt on the steamed edamame if desired. You can also get fancy and experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, chili flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice. The possibilities are endless!
So there you have it – a quick and easy way to steam edamame in the microwave. It’s a hassle-free method that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. Now you can enjoy this delicious and nutritious snack anytime, even on the busiest of days. So go ahead, grab a bowl of steamed edamame, and treat yourself to a little moment of delight.