How to cook runner beans in microwave
Runner beans, also known as string beans, are a popular vegetable that is enjoyed in many cuisines around the world. They are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any meal.
If you’re short on time or simply want a quick and convenient way to cook runner beans, using a microwave is a great option. Microwave cooking can help preserve the nutrients and flavor of the beans while reducing cooking time.
Here is a simple and easy method to cook runner beans in the microwave that will leave you with tender and delicious beans in no time.
Step 1: Preparing the Beans
Start by rinsing the runner beans under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Then, trim off the ends of the beans and remove any tough strings along the edges. Once the beans are clean and trimmed, cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Note: Some people prefer to leave the beans whole, but cutting them into smaller pieces will help them cook more evenly in the microwave.
Quick Guide: Cooking Runner Beans in Microwave
If you’re looking for a quick and convenient way to cook runner beans, using a microwave is a great option. Not only does it save time, but it also helps retain the nutritional value of the beans. Follow this simple guide to cook delicious runner beans using your microwave.
- Clean and prepare the runner beans by washing them thoroughly and removing the tops and tails.
- Take a microwave-safe dish and place the prepared runner beans in it. You can cut them into smaller pieces if desired.
- Add about 1/4 cup of water to the dish. This will help the beans steam and cook evenly.
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe plate or lid. This will help trap the steam and cook the beans more efficiently.
- Place the dish in the microwave and cook on high power for 3-4 minutes. Cooking time may vary based on microwave wattage and the desired tenderness of the beans. Check the beans halfway through and give them a stir to ensure even cooking.
- Once the beans are cooked to your liking, carefully remove the dish from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel, as it will be hot.
- Season the cooked runner beans with salt, pepper, or any other preferred herbs and spices. You can also add a pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
- Gently toss the runner beans with the seasonings using a spoon or tongs.
- Let the beans sit for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Your runner beans are now ready to be served as a side dish or added to other recipes. Enjoy this quick and delicious microwave cooking method for runner beans!
Preparation
To cook runner beans in the microwave, you first need to prepare the beans. Start by rinsing them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, using a sharp knife, trim off the ends of the beans and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Next, place the chopped beans in a microwave-safe dish and add a small amount of water. This will help to steam the beans as they cook. It is recommended to use about 1/4 cup of water for every pound of beans.
For additional flavor, you can add salt, pepper, or other seasonings to the dish. Mix the ingredients well so that the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Finally, cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or wrap it with microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help to trap steam and create a moist cooking environment. Make sure to leave a small vent for steam to escape.
Now that you have prepared the runner beans, you are ready to cook them in the microwave. The cooking time will vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the desired tenderness of the beans. A good starting point is to cook them on high power for about 5 minutes.
After the initial cooking time, check the beans for tenderness. If they are not cooked to your liking, continue to microwave them in 1-minute increments until they reach the desired texture. Be careful when removing the dish from the microwave, and use oven mitts or a towel to protect your hands from the heat.
Once the runner beans are cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the microwave and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed as a delicious side dish or added to salads, stir-fries, or pasta dishes.
Enjoy your freshly cooked runner beans!
Cleaning the Beans
Before cooking runner beans in the microwave, it is important to properly clean them to remove any dirt or debris. Follow these steps to ensure your beans are thoroughly cleaned:
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Rinse the beans
Place the runner beans in a colander and rinse them under cold water. Remove any visible dirt or debris by gently rubbing the beans.
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Trim the ends
Trim off both ends of the beans using a sharp knife. This will remove any tough or stringy portions.
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Remove strings
If your runner beans have strings, gently pull them to remove. The strings can be tough to chew, so it’s best to remove them.
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Cut into desired size
Cut the beans into your desired size. You can cut them into shorter lengths or leave them whole, depending on your taste and recipe.
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Rinse again
Give the beans another quick rinse under cold water to remove any remaining debris or loose bits.
Once you have cleaned the runner beans, they are now ready to be cooked in the microwave.
Trimming and Chopping
Before cooking runner beans in the microwave, it is important to properly trim and chop them. This helps to ensure that the beans cook evenly and are easier to eat. Follow these steps to prepare your runner beans:
1. Rinse the beans
Start by rinsing the runner beans under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Place them in a colander and shake gently to remove excess water.
2. Trim the ends
Using a sharp knife, trim both ends of the runner beans. Cut off about 1/4 inch from each end. This will remove any tough or stringy parts of the bean.
3. Remove any strings
If your runner beans have strings along the sides, gently pull them off. Hold the bean at one end and use your other hand to pull the string down towards the opposite end. Discard the strings once removed.
4. Chop into desired size
Decide how you would like to chop your runner beans – whether into bite-sized pieces, diagonally, or lengthwise. Use a knife to cut them into your desired size. Remember that smaller pieces will cook faster in the microwave.
Now that your runner beans are properly trimmed and chopped, they are ready to be cooked in the microwave. Follow the remaining steps of the recipe to enjoy a delicious and hassle-free dish!
Seasoning and Flavouring
Seasoning and flavouring are essential steps in cooking runner beans to enhance their taste and aroma. You can experiment with different herbs, spices, and condiments to add depth and complexity to your dish. Here are some popular seasoning and flavouring options for runner beans:
| Seasoning Options | How to Use |
|---|---|
| Sea salt | Generously sprinkle sea salt over the cooked beans to enhance their natural flavor. |
| Black pepper | Grind fresh black pepper on top of the beans for a mild punch of spiciness. |
| Garlic powder | Add a pinch of garlic powder while cooking to infuse the beans with a delicious garlicky taste. |
| Onion powder | Sprinkle a small amount of onion powder for an added depth of savory flavor. |
| Paprika | Dust some paprika on the beans to give them a mild smoky and slightly sweet taste. |
| Chili flakes | If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some chili flakes to add a spicy kick to the dish. |
| Herbs (e.g. thyme, rosemary) | Add fresh or dried herbs of your choice to infuse the beans with aromatic flavors. |
Remember, seasoning and flavouring are subjective, so feel free to adjust the quantities and combinations according to your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting with different seasonings to create delicious and flavorful runner beans!
Microwaving
Microwaving is a quick and easy way to cook runner beans while preserving their texture and flavor. Here is a simple method:
- Wash the runner beans thoroughly and trim the ends.
- Place the beans in a microwave-safe dish or plate.
- Add a small amount of water to the dish, enough to cover the bottom.
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
- Cook on high power for 5-7 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Stir halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and let it stand for a few minutes before serving.
- Season with salt, pepper, or other desired seasoning before serving.
Remember to always use caution when handling dishes and remove them from the microwave with oven mitts or a towel, as they will be hot. Enjoy your microwaved runner beans as a delicious side dish or add them to your favorite recipes.
Serving and Enjoying
Once your runner beans are cooked to perfection in the microwave, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. Here are a few ideas on how to make the most out of your delicious dish:
Lay It on a Plate
Transfer the cooked runner beans to a serving plate or dish, ensuring the vibrant green color of the beans shines through. Arrange them neatly in a single layer to showcase their beautiful shape and texture.
Season to Taste
Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper to enhance the flavor of the runner beans. You can also drizzle some olive oil or melted butter over the cooked beans to add richness.
You can customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Sprinkle some garlic powder or a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing zing. Explore with your favorite herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme for an aromatic twist.
Serve as a Side Dish
Runner beans make a fantastic side dish that complements many main courses. Pair them with baked salmon, grilled chicken, or even a juicy steak for a balanced and nutritious meal.
Another classic combination is serving them alongside roast beef and potatoes on a Sunday roast. The tender and flavorsome runner beans will brighten up your plate and add an extra burst of freshness.
For a vegetarian or vegan option, toss the cooked beans with some pasta and a homemade tomato sauce. Top it with grated parmesan or nutritional yeast for an extra umami flavor.
Add to Salads
Craving a lighter and fresher meal? You can use your cooked runner beans to make a delightful salad. Combine them with other seasonal vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lettuce, in a large bowl.
Add a simple vinaigrette dressing using olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss everything together for a refreshing salad that showcases the vibrant flavors and textures of the runner beans.
Store Leftovers
If you have any leftover runner beans, let them cool to room temperature and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3-4 days, making them a great option for meal prepping or quick leftovers.
Enjoy reheating them in the microwave for a speedy and nutritious side dish or add them to soups, stir-fries, or stews for an extra pop of color and flavor.
With these serving and enjoying ideas, you’ll be able to elevate your cooked runner beans in the microwave and savor their natural goodness in various ways.
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