Cooking Eggs In The Microwave? 6 Ways To Get It Right

If you’re trying to whip up a quick microwave meal, you can easily add some eggs. Most people think microwave eggs will end up rubbery, flavourless and not as well-cooked. However, it’s quite easy to make fluffy and savoury eggs in the microwave, if you pay attention to details. There are some minor things which can help your microwave eggs turn out soft and delicious.

Also Read: Stovetop To Microwave: 5 Ways To Prepare Poached Eggs

Don’t use a high-power setting

Eggs cooked in the gas typically have to be cooked in low heat, so it cooks evenly. In fact, scrambled or sunny-side-up eggs should not spend too much time in high heat. One of the most common mistakes when making eggs in the microwave is using the high-power setting. This can result in uneven cooking, with parts of the egg being overcooked while others remain undercooked. Microwaves heat food by rapidly heating water molecules, and eggs are particularly sensitive to this quick heating process. High power settings can cause the eggs to cook too quickly, leading to a rubbery texture and uneven consistency. 

To avoid this, use medium or medium-low power settings. Cooking eggs at a lower power allows for more even heat distribution, which results in a better texture and more consistent cooking. Although it might take a bit longer, the results will be worth the extra time.

Don’t skip the stirring

Stirring the eggs during the cooking process is essential. Microwaves heat food from the outside, which can cause the outer edges of the eggs to cook faster than the centre. If you don’t stir the eggs, they can become overcooked around the edges while remaining undercooked in the middle. To ensure even cooking, stir the eggs at least once or twice during the cooking process. This helps redistribute the heat and ensures a more uniform texture. Additionally, stirring the eggs helps to incorporate air, making them fluffier.

Use a spherical microwave-safe container

Using the wrong type of container is another mistake to avoid. Not all containers are safe for microwave use, and some materials can cause harmful chemicals to leach into your food. Always use a microwave-safe container, preferably glass or microwave-safe plastic. Avoid using metal or containers with metallic trim, as these can cause sparks and potentially damage your microwave. Using a shallow, wide and spherical dish rather than a deep one allows for more even cooking and prevents the eggs from cooking unevenly.

Overcooking the eggs

Overcooking is a frequent issue when making eggs in the microwave. Eggs can go from perfectly cooked to overdone in a matter of seconds. Overcooked eggs become dry, rubbery, and less appetizing. To prevent this, cook the eggs in short intervals, checking frequently to ensure they don’t overcook. Start with a shorter cooking time and add more time in small increments as needed. Remember, the eggs will continue to cook for a short period after being removed from the microwave due to residual heat, so it’s better to slightly undercook them initially.

Forgetting to Add Liquid

Always add a small amount of liquid to the eggs before microwaving. Adding a bit of milk or water helps to keep the eggs moist and prevents them from drying out. This is especially important for scrambled eggs or omelettes. Simply whisk a tablespoon of milk or water per egg before cooking. This not only helps maintain moisture but also results in a creamier texture and better overall flavour.

Cover the Eggs

Failing to cover the eggs while they cook can lead to uneven heating and potential messes in the microwave. Covering the container with a microwave-safe lid or a piece of microwave-safe plastic wrap helps to trap steam, which aids in even cooking and prevents the eggs from drying out. However, make sure to leave a small vent for steam to escape to avoid pressure build-up, which could cause the lid to pop off or the container to explode.