How to prep sabzis for microwave-only reheating?

Question

How do you prep your sabzis for microwave-only reheating? Learn which vegetables and cooking methods work best for this.

Answer 1

To prep sabzis for microwave reheating, choose vegetables that retain moisture well, cook them slightly underdone initially, and store them with a little extra sauce or liquid. This prevents them from drying out in the microwave.

Detailed Explanation:

Microwaving can often lead to sabzis drying out. Here's how to prepare them so they reheat well:

1. Choose the Right Vegetables: Opt for vegetables that hold moisture well, such as potatoes, cauliflower, peas, beans, and bell peppers. Avoid vegetables like leafy greens (spinach, kale) which can become soggy.

2. Cook Slightly Underdone: When initially cooking the sabzi, aim for slightly undercooked vegetables. They will continue to cook during the reheating process in the microwave, preventing them from becoming mushy.

3. Add Extra Sauce or Liquid: Ensure the sabzi has enough gravy or sauce. If it's a dry sabzi, add a tablespoon or two of water or vegetable broth before storing. This will create steam during reheating, keeping the vegetables moist.

4. Proper Storage: Store the sabzi in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This prevents moisture loss and keeps the sabzi fresh.

5. Reheating Technique: When reheating, cover the container loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (vented). This traps steam and prevents splattering. Reheat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) and stir in between to ensure even heating.

Pro Tip:

Add a small pat of butter or ghee to the sabzi before reheating. This adds moisture and richness, improving the overall taste and texture after microwaving.