How to Cook in the Microwave With a Plastic Bowl

Microwaving food in a plastic bowl can be a quick and easy way to reheat leftovers or cook simple meals. However, you should take special care in how the food is heated, especially meats. By following these steps and precautions, you can ensure that the food you heat or cook is safe for consumption.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic bowl
• Microwave

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Instructions

• 1

  Make sure the plastic bowl is microwave safe. You can find this label on the underside of the bowl. If the bowl does not have a label, move the contents of the plastic bowl into a safe ceramic or glass container.

• 2

  Cover the bowl with a lid or other microwave-safe alternative to heat the food evenly.

• 3

  If you are using plastic wrap to cover the bowl, make sure it does not come into contact with the food because melting is possible. Wax paper, kitchen parchment and paper towels are safe alternatives as well.

• 4

  Microwave the food for your desired time and power. Stirring the food halfway through the cooking process will remove cold areas where bacteria may reside.

• 5

  Remove the packaging before defrosting foods. The USDA recommends cooking larger cuts of meat on medium power for longer periods to avoid overcooking the outside. Cook meat, poultry and eggs on a grill or in a conventional oven immediately after defrosting.