Microwave Tips

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  To powder cardamom spread it in a glass plate and microwave on high for 30seconds.Powder in a blender/mixie and you will get a smooth powder without any fibre.
  Soften a chilled or frozen stick of butter by reducing power to 50% and heating for approximately 40 seconds.
  Melt chocolate squares by heating at full power for approximately 45 seconds per ounce of chocolate
  Soften rock-hard ice cream by heating at 30% power for approximately 20 seconds.
  Toast coconut by spreading into a thin layer and heating on high power for approximately 2-3 minutes. Stop and stir after 1 ½ - 2 minutes
  To dry lemon and orange peel, place grated rind in small microwavable container and heat on high power for approximately 30 to 60 seconds
  Microwave lemons and other citrus fruits for approximately 20 seconds to help get more juice when squeezed. Just before cutting the fruit, roll it against a countertop or cutting board surface, applying pressure with the palm of your hand, until softened.
  Crisp stale chips, cookies or crackers by microwaving them at full power for approximately 10 seconds.
  Blanch nuts by placing them in boiling water and heating on high up to one minute. Remove skins by rubbing between paper towels
  Roast nuts by spreading evenly in a single layer and cooking on high for approximately 2 ½ – 3 minutes.
  Veggies can be steamed in the microwave in just a few minutes with no added fat. Simply chop vegetables as desired, place in a microwavable container with 1 to 2 Tbsp. of water and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Cook on high until soft.
  Make great corn on the cob by rinsing ears in cold water with the husks on. Heat in the microwave on high for up to six minutes for two ears and up to eight minutes for four.