Microwave is a go-to for quick meals and heating leftovers, but some foods just don’t get along with them.
From uneven heating to ruining textures, certain foods are better left out.
Here are five foods you’ll want to avoid putting in the microwave.
Frozen meat
While microwaves offer a “defrost” setting, trying to fully cook frozen meat in the microwave can lead to tough, dry, and uneven results. Microwaves heat from the outside in, so the outer parts can become leathery by the time the inside is fully cooked. If you want to cook frozen meat, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge or give it a quick defrost in the microwave before finishing in the oven, skillet, or grill.
Chili peppers
Microwaving chili peppers releases capsaicin, the compound that makes them spicy, which becomes airborne in the microwave. When you open the door, you might get hit with fumes that can irritate your eyes and throat. If you need to heat chili peppers, do it on the stove where you can control the intensity.
Frozen fruits
It might seem convenient, but microwaving frozen fruits can change their taste and texture, and they can lose some of their valuable nutrients. Fruits like strawberries or blueberries can get mushy when microwaved. Instead, let them thaw at room temperature or in the fridge.
Hard-boiled eggs
Hard-boiled eggs and microwaves don’t mix. Microwaving a hard-boiled egg—especially with the shell still on—can cause a pressure buildup that might result in an explosion. Even without the shell, hard-boiled eggs can pop. The best way is to enjoy them cold or warm them gently on the stove.
Breast milk
Microwaving breast milk isn’t ideal. It can create hot spots that might burn your baby’s mouth, and it can also reduce some of the milk’s nutrients. A safer and gentler way to warm breast milk is by placing the bottle in a bowl of warm water or using a bottle warmer.
