Eggs are one of the easiest foods to cook, but when time is short, the microwave can make breakfast even quicker. From a fluffy omelette to scrambled eggs and poached eggs, several egg preparations can be made in a microwave with the right method. However, there is one important rule to remember: never microwave an egg in its shell. Steam can build up inside the shell and cause the egg to burst. Instead, crack the egg into a microwave-safe bowl or mug and follow the appropriate method. Here are some easy ways to cook eggs in a microwave.
How to make it: Crack 2 eggs into a microwave-safe bowl and whisk them with a tablespoon of milk or water, along with salt and pepper. Microwave on high for about 45 seconds, stir gently, then cook for another 30–60 seconds, or until the egg is set. A microwave omelette is a quick option when you want something filling without standing over a pan. Add chopped vegetables such as onion, tomato, capsicum or spinach, and a little grated cheese if you like. Cooking time can vary depending on the microwave.
How to make it: Crack 2 eggs into a microwave-safe bowl and whisk well with 1–2 tablespoons of milk or water. Microwave for about 30 seconds, then remove and stir. Continue cooking in 15–20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the eggs are just set. Crack in 1–2 eggs, add salt and pepper, and whisk. Microwave for about 30 seconds, stir, and continue cooking in 15–20-second bursts until set.
Scrambled eggs are particularly easy to prepare in the microwave and take only a couple of minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Let them stand for a few seconds before eating, as they will continue cooking from the residual heat. A traditional boiled egg should not be microwaved in its shell. However, you can make a boiled-style egg using water and a microwave-safe container. How to make it: Crack the egg into a microwave-safe bowl containing enough water to fully cover it. Pierce the yolk, loosely cover the bowl and microwave in short intervals until the white is firm and the yolk is cooked to your liking. Carefully drain the hot water before serving. For a quick breakfast, an egg-in-a-mug is one of the simplest options. How to make it: Grease a microwave-safe mug lightly with oil or butter. You can add cheese, herbs, chopped vegetables or cooked meat. Use a microwave-safe container: Choose a container specifically designed for microwave cooking and avoid cooking eggs in their shells, as steam can build up inside and cause them to burst. Pierce the yolk: When cooking an egg out of its shell, gently pierce the yolk with a fork or toothpick to give steam a way to escape. Never seal the container tightly: Cover the dish loosely or use a microwave-safe cover that allows steam to vent. A tightly sealed container can allow pressure to build up. Start with shorter cooking times: Microwave power varies between appliances, so treat cooking times as a starting point rather than a fixed rule. Check the eggs frequently: Eggs cook quickly in a microwave. Cooking them in short intervals and checking between each round can help prevent them from becoming rubbery or overcooked.