This Clever Hack Is a Game Changer for Reheating Rice in a Microwave

Rice is a staple food in many cultures around the world. Whether used as a side dish or a base for a main course, it is a versatile ingredient that’s easy to prepare and store. But reheating rice in the microwave can be a challenge. 

Rice often becomes dry, hard, and unappetizing when reheated in the microwave. The good news is there’s a clever hack that’s been gaining popularity online that claims to be a game changer for reheating rice in the microwave. In this blog, we’ll explain this hack and discuss whether or not it really works.

Reheat Hack

The hack involves reheating rice in the microwave with a wet paper towel. The idea is that the damp paper towel helps to create steam, which keeps the rice moist and prevents it from drying out. 

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Put the leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl. 
2. Wet a paper towel and wring out any excess water. Lay the damp paper towel over the top of the bowl, covering the rice completely. 
3. Microwave the bowl on high for 1-2 minutes. 
4. When finished, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and remove the paper towel before serving.

Does It Work?

To understand why reheating rice in the microwave can be challenging, it’s important to know the science behind it. Rice contains starch, which can absorb moisture and cause the rice to become hard and dry. When rice is left to cool at room temperature, the starch molecules crystallize, making it more difficult to reheat evenly.

A study published in the Journal of Food Process Engineering investigated the effect of various reheating methods on the texture and moisture content of cooked rice. The study found that reheating rice in the microwave with a damp paper towel helped to maintain the moisture content of the rice. This is because the steam generated by the damp paper towel helps to rehydrate the rice and prevent the starch from crystallizing. The study also found that covering the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap helped to trap the steam and heat the rice more evenly. So, it seems that there is some evidence to support the wet paper towel hack. 

Reheating Other Foods

Reheating food in a microwave is a convenient way to enjoy leftovers or warm up meals quickly. Different foods require different reheating approaches to ensure optimal results, however. For meats, it’s best to reheat them in shorter intervals, using the defrost or medium power setting to prevent overcooking. To warm up crispy foods like pizza or French fries, place them on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture and microwave them in short bursts until they regain their desired crispness. Delicate items such as soups or sauces should be stirred occasionally during reheating to ensure even heat distribution. Lastly, when reheating bread or baked goods, use the microwave’s low-power setting and wrap them in a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. By following these guidelines, you can make the most of your microwave and enjoy reheated foods that taste as good as freshly made.

Conclusion

The wet paper towel hack for reheating rice in the microwave is definitely worth a try if you’re looking to keep your leftover rice moist and fluffy. But it’s worth noting that this hack may not work for everyone. The effectiveness of this method may depend on factors such as the type of rice, the quantity of rice being reheated, and the power of your microwave. Additionally, while this method may help to keep the rice moist, it won’t necessarily improve the flavor or texture of the rice. All in all, it’s worth a try to reheat rice quickly!