Try This Easy Trick the Next Time You Microwave Food to Keep It From Drying Out

The microwave isn’t my favorite appliance for cooking or reheating food but it has its uses. In times when only a microwave is available or I’m really strapped for time, I’ll place leftover rice, pasta and on rare occasions, even meat, and pray those infernal rays don’t dry out the food.

And I’m not alone if this Reddit thread is anything to go by. Many people seem to be looking for ways to heat their food quickly without being left with cold spots or dry leftovers.

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a glass of water sits in a microwave

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

pete's chicken and beets

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

David Watsky/CNET

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. 

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