There are loads of ways of cooking mushrooms. But have you ever thought about microwaving them?
It’s quick and easy, but there’s more to it than that - and we think you’ll be surprised by the results. Microwaving is actually a great way of locking in all of the mushroom’s natural nutrients. Nothing is lost, so it’s a really healthy cooking method.
Interested? Then let’s give it a go. Here are some simple step-by-step guides to microwave different types of mushrooms, plus some creative ways to use your perfectly prepped fungi!
Benefits of microwaving mushrooms
First things first. Why are we thinking about microwaving mushrooms rather than throwing them in a pan? There are actually quite a few good reasons…
It’s healthier . Microwaving mushrooms locks in their natural vitamins than boiling or frying. Plus, you don’t need to add any oil or butter, so it’s a lower-calorie option.
It boosts the flavours. Microwaving can bring out those yummy umami flavours of mushrooms without adding any fats or other ingredients. The enclosed environment of the microwave helps to intensify the mushrooms' own juices, making them super moist and tasty.
Quick and convenient. Don’t have much spare time on your hands? That’s what makes microwaves so handy. Microwaving mushrooms takes just a few minutes.
A basic method for microwaving mushrooms
Clean and prep them. Start by cleaning your mushrooms. Use a damp paper towel or a soft brush to wipe off any dirt. Avoid using water,because mushrooms will suck any liquids right up and become mushy. Then give the stems a wipe if necessary, especially if they’re dry or woody.
Get them ready for the microwave. Now pop your cleaned mushrooms in a microwave-safe dish. If you're microwaving whole mushrooms, make sure they're in a single layer for even cooking. Then cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. If you’re using plastic wrap, poke a few holes to allow steam to escape.
Cook them for the right amount of time. Microwave the mushrooms on high for 2-3 minutes. This is just a rough guideline and might vary depending on the type and size of the mushrooms - and the wattage of your microwave.
Check for doneness. Give your mushrooms a quick squeeze with a fork to see if they’re tender. If they need more time, microwave in 30-second bursts until they’re ready.
Now, let's dive into specific instructions for different types of mushrooms:
Microwaving sliced mushrooms
Sliced mushrooms cook quickly and evenly in the microwave. After you’ve cleaned and sliced them, just put them in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to make sure they’re cooking evenly.
For higher wattage microwaves (900 watts or more), reduce the initial cooking time by 30 seconds, and check for doneness a little earlier.
Microwaving button mushrooms
Button mushrooms are small and cook quickly. Clean and prep them, remove the larger stems, then put them in a single layer in a microwave-safe dish, Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, and they should be done.
Microwaving Portobello mushrooms
Portobello mushrooms are larger and meatier, so they’ll need a bit more time in the microwave. Give them a good clean and remove the stems. You can also remove the gills if you prefer a milder taste. Then put them gill-side up in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and microwave on high for 3-4 minutes. Check for doneness and microwave in additional 30-second bursts if needed.
How to make microwaved mushrooms even tastier
Adding a few extra touches to your mushrooms can really take their flavours to the next level. For example:
Olive oil. A drizzle of olive oil before microwaving can boost the mushrooms' natural flavours.
Garlic. Minced garlic or garlic powder can add a real savoury kick. Add it before microwaving for a mellow flavour, or after for a sharper taste.
Soy sauce. A splash of soy sauce before or after microwaving can add a salty, umami punch.
Balsamic vinegar. A dash of balsamic vinegar can give your mushrooms a sweet and tangy taste.
Marinating mushrooms
For even more flavour, try marinating the mushrooms before microwaving. Combine olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and your favourite herbs in a bowl, toss the mushrooms in the mixture, and let them sit for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
A few ideas for using microwaved mushrooms
Once you've mastered microwaving mushrooms, you’ll have loads of options for using them in meals. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Pasta. Toss microwaved mushrooms in with your favourite pasta, olive oil, pesto and Parmesan cheese. That’s all you need for a great dish.
Salads. Add warm microwaved mushrooms to salads. They pair especially well with spinach, rocket or mixed greens.
Pizzas. Use microwaved mushrooms as a topping for homemade – or even store-bought pizza. Their rich flavour complements toppings like ham and spinach. But not pineapple.
Sandwiches and wraps. Add microwaved mushrooms to sandwiches or wraps for extra texture and flavour. They go well with grilled chicken, cheese, and fresh veg.
Stir-fries. Throw microwaved mushrooms into stir-fries for a quick and easy veggie boost. They cook faster than other veg, so add them toward the end of cooking.
Soups. Add microwaved mushrooms to soups and stews for an extra layer of flavour. They can be stirred in at the end of cooking or used as a garnish.
You can now enjoy perfectly cooked mushrooms in just a few minutes! Plus, our serving tips should help make your micro mushies a great addition to any meal. So, next time you're in a hurry or want a quick nutritious side dish… you know what to do.
Need more help?
Feeling inspired to see what else your microwave can create Here’s How to cook rice in the microwave and How to microwave a baked potato. And if you love a good brunch, you could even try How to cook eggs in the microwave.
And if you’re looking to upgrade to a new freestanding microwave or combination microwave with lots of cooking programs, our microwave buying guide is a great place to start.
