With so much going on in college, it can be difficult to quickly prepare food. We have arranged some of our favorite food hacks to make your life easier!
Eggs in the Microwave
Poached Eggs
If you’ve struggled to make poached eggs in the past, try this easy way of making them in the microwave! Not only do they taste exactly the same, you will get a more unified shape with no scraggly edges. Grab a small ramekin or mug, and crack one egg. Top with just enough water to cover it, and add a splash of white vinegar. Microwave for 30 seconds, and touch it to determine how done it is. If it is not cooked enough for your liking, continue microwaving in 10-second increments until it is cooked properly.
Scrambled Eggs
Grab a microwave-safe bowl and scramble as many eggs as you like. Microwave for 30 seconds, and use a fork to gently drag the edges to the center. Continue cooking for 20 seconds, and keep checking it until it is done to your liking.
Keep Bananas Fresh
If you find yourself always buying bananas and never eating them before they go bad, try wrapping the tops in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This will prevent oxygen from getting into the banana, making sure they stay fresh for longer.
Test Freshness of Your Eggs
If you are worried your eggs might not be fresh, try this food hack that has been around forever! Fill a bowl with water, and gently drop the eggs (with their shell). If they sink, then they are still fresh. If they float to the top, it’s time to throw them out!
Mess-Free Bacon
If you love bacon but hate cleaning up the grease off the stove, try cooking it in the oven! Not only is it even crispier than in the microwave or stove, but it does not make any mess. Preheat your oven 400 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil (this is key to avoid any mess!) and lay your bacon strips evenly. Cook for 18-20 minutes or until it gets to your desired crispiness.
Revive Leftover Pizza in the Microwave
If you have leftover pizza that is slightly dried out, microwave it on a paper towel next to a mug of water. The water will evaporate and add moisture to the pizza making it fresh again!
Massage Kale to Make Tender
Kale has been extremely popular the past few years, but it is a vegetable that you either love or hate. If you find it tough and dry, try coating it with a tablespoon of olive oil and gently massage it with your hands to leave it nice and tender.
Freeze Sauce in Ice Cube Trays
If you made too much sauce and don’t know how to save it, try placing it in an ice cube tray and freezing. Not only will it last for longer, but you can easily reheat it.
Microwave Lemons for More Juice
If your lemons or limes are not ripe enough and not producing juice, try microwaving for 20 seconds on high. This will yield more juice.
These food hacks should help you when you’re cooking meals in college. Not only are they useful to know, but they’ll save time whenever you’re in a pinch. If you want more from the Taste Testers, follow us on Instagram, Twitch and TikTok @UATwitch, and tune into our stream on Twitch every Wednesday at 7 p.m.!
