My Favorite Microwave Hack Keeps Food From Drying Out

CNET

The microwave isn't exactly my go-to kitchen hero. It's more like that unreliable sidekick who occasionally pulls through in a pinch. Still, it has its moments -- especially when it's the only appliance around or I'm racing against the clock and my hunger is threatening to stage a coup.

In those times, I'll toss in leftover rice, pasta and -- when I'm feeling particularly wild -- even meat, then offer a small prayer to the microwave gods that the food doesn't come out drier than my sense of humor.

My secret weapon? A humble glass of water. I pop it into the microwave alongside my food -- just 2 to 3 ounces. As it turns to steam, it keeps the air nice and moist, which helps prevent your dinner from transforming into a chewy disaster that could double as shoe leather.

Pro tip: if you want that steam to show up before your food finishes heating, start with hot water or give the water glass a head start -- zap it solo for 30 to 40 seconds before inviting your main dish to the party.

Heat the water for 30 seconds before placing food inside.

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How to keep food moist in the microwave

• Step 1: Put a small cup of water in the microwave
• Step 2: Microwave on high for 40 seconds or until water is hot
• Step 3: Add food and microwave as you normally would

If you want food to stay even more moist during cooking, add water directly to the microwave-safe dish or bowl your food is in, cover it and heat as you normally would. This will put the food in closer contact with the vapor. 

This method works best with fattier meats, such as chicken thighs and ground beef. It's perfect for heating prepared and frozen meals.

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Read more: I Found the Best Way to Reheat Pizza and It's Not the Air Fryer

I find the water trick helps most with fattier meats such as chicken thighs, hamburgers and pork. It's also a good safeguard when reheating leftover veggies and carbs such as rice, noodles, pasta and potatoes. It's also helpful when warming frozen foods or preparing meals from your favorite subscription service.

Microwave user beware: This trick works well on many foods but don't expect miracles. Super lean or dense meat may still be prone to drying, even with help from water. Not even a shot glass of holy water will help microwave-reheated pizza taste like it did the first time.