Are you a bit skeptical about microwaving Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice? It is a great alternative to your usual white rice so you want to try it out. But microwaving it just seems a bit……off.
Well, you’re not alone. I didn’t feel like it was a good thing to do too! At least, not until I tried it out for myself (because why not?).
It can be a little tricky for those who haven’t done it yet. But hey, that’s why you’re here!
This article will show you everything you need to know about microwaving your Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice and how you can do it within just 3 to 4 minutes (I bet you didn’t expect it to be that quick, huh?).
Okay, now we’re all hungry and in a hurry. So, what are we waiting for? Let’s get started!
Can you microwave Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice?
YES! You can always microwave Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice. This is the easiest and fastest way to cook it. Plus, it is healthier as well. This is because there is no need for you to add any fat when microwaving it.
Most of us are used to cooking cauliflower rice using a stove. Some of my friends tell me that the conventional way of cooking makes it tastier and gives a better texture. However, I was still able to get the same result when I tried microwaving it. More than that, I also got to enjoy my cauliflower rice faster.
Additionally, Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice is frozen when you buy it in the store to make sure that it is still fresh when you cook it. So, you can always save some for later and you can also fill up your stock even when you’re busy at work. Talk about convenience, right?
Is it safe to microwave Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice?
Absolutely! It is completely safe to microwave Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice. You just need to make sure that it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius after you microwave it to make sure it is already safe.
It is important to make sure that the desired internal temperature is reached so that you are sure that your cauliflower rice will not be easily contaminated by anything that can put you in danger.
Moreover, you need to make sure that you microwave your Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice in a microwave-safe container since the original packaging is not microwave-safe. Hence, it is better if you use a ceramic or glass bowl. But a plastic and microwavable container will do just fine as well.
Also, a friendly reminder that it is safe to use a microwave. Contrary to what almost everyone thinks about it, microwaves don’t cause cancer.
The radiation that microwaves give off is considered non-ionizing which means that it won’t give you cancer and it won’t cause any harmful effects on the human body.
So, relax and carry on with microwaving.
How long do you microwave Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice?
Microwaving about 1⅓ cups of Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. However, the amount of time you need to spend on microwaving your Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice depends on how strong your microwave is.
You will need a microwave that has a high wattage for you to cook your Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice within 3 to 4 minutes. With that, if you are using one with a lower wattage, then it might take you more time to microwave your cauliflower rice.
The microwave I have at home has a 1200 wattage. It only took me 3 to 4 minutes to reheat my cauliflower rice when using this. That being said, you can expect to cook your Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice in the same amount of time if you have a microwave with a wattage similar to what I used.
If you are using a microwave with only 1000 watts, then I guess it will still work the same as a microwave with 1200 watts.
On the other hand, if you will use a microwave that has a higher wattage than this, you may want to consider cooking it for a shorter period to avoid overcooking and burning your cauliflower rice.
However, if your microwave only has 800 watts and lower, then I suggest you cook it for a longer time.
How to make Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice NOT soggy when microwaving?
When you microwave it, you need to squeeze out all of the water from your Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice so that it doesn’t become soggy.
One of the most common issues that people face when microwaving cauliflower rice is how much watery and soggy it becomes after the whole process. Cauliflower has a lot of water content (92%). This is why you need to make sure that you drain out all the water it has before serving and eating your cauliflower rice.
What you need to do is make sure you microwave it while it is still frozen. Do NOT defrost your Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice before putting it in the microwave. This causes the ice crystals to melt and soak your cauliflower. As a result, your cauliflower rice will be too soggy.
Microwaving your Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice while it is still frozen allows the ice to quickly evaporate and become steam as it melts. Hence, your cauliflower rice won’t become too soggy and wet since the steam can easily escape.
However, if your Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice is already at room temperature, then you need to drain as much water from it before putting it in the microwave. Use paper towels so that the moisture of your cauliflower rice can be absorbed easily.
Additionally, it is advisable to NOT cover the container so that the steam can easily escape while it is heating.
How to microwave Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice?
It is very easy to microwave Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice. With a few simple steps, you are just minutes away from enjoying your healthy and hassle-free meal. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare a microwavable container. It is better if you use a bowl so that you can easily stir your cauliflower rice and drain out the water later on.
- Take out your Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice from the freezer.
- Get 1⅓ cups of Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice and put it in the microwavable container. If you want, you may season it with salt and pepper or any seasonings of your choice.
- Put the container in the microwave and set the heat setting to high.
- Microwave your cauliflower rice for 3 to 4 minutes.
- When the microwaving time is done, remove your cauliflower rice from the microwave and drain the water that has accumulated in the bowl. Be careful to not burn yourself while doing so.
- Stir your cauliflower rice to make sure the heat is well distributed.
- Put it back in the microwave and let it heat again with the high setting for 1 to 2 minutes more.
- Once done, check the internal temperature. Heat for another minute again if the desired internal temperature is not yet reached.
- Serve and enjoy your microwaved Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice with your favorite main dishes.
Conclusion
So, there you have your perfectly microwaved Trader Joe’s cauliflower rice. This article showed you the easiest way to prepare your cauliflower rice as well as some of the facts that can help you feel more confident with what you eat. Who knew that looking for healthy alternatives for our meals can be made easy?
Now, you don’t have to worry so much about how many calories or carbohydrates you are eating. Here’s to healthier living and better lifestyles!