I haven’t owned a microwave oven in more than 6 years. The last time I owned one was only because it was built into the house I was renting. Many people think they couldn’t live without a microwave oven. I disagree. I think it’s simple and healthy to go microwave free.
Going microwave free is not as hard as you might think. You might have to give up a little convenience, but the rewards are greater than the sacrifice.
7 Reasons To Go Microwave Free
- You’ll have less kitchen clutter: Microwaves take up counter space and add to clutter. Even if it’s a built-in, you likely own several kitchen utensils specifically for use with the microwave.
- It will decrease your risk of cancer: Microwaves emit radiation. Radiation is known to cause cancer. Cooking in plastic containers also increases cancer risk due to the chemicals that can leak into your food.
- Your food will be more nutritious: Microwaves change the way the molecules of your food bond together. This leads to the leaching of nutrients. When you go microwave free, you’ll get more nutrients by default.
- Your food will be more tasteful: I love oatmeal. I can tell the difference in the taste and texture of oatmeal cooked in a microwave. It has less flavor. Microwaves often overcook food, too. That makes the food less healthy and less tasteful.
- There are better ways of cooking: Baking, broiling, and stovetop cooking are simple. I slow cook several times a month. There’s nothing like walking into the house to the smell of a savory, slow-cooked pot roast. A crock pot is an essential kitchen item in my home.
- You’ll eat more raw fruits, nuts, and vegetables: I stock apples, bananas, carrots, broccoli, and a variety of berries and nuts in my home. I often eat raw foods. There’s nothing more healthy than one-ingredient, raw foods.
- You can slow the pace of your life: Microwaves may be fast and convenient, but simple living is about slowing down. We get in the habit of doing things fast and furiously. Going microwave free will force you to slow down in the kitchen.
Simple Cooking Ideas For Going Microwave Free
- Stovetop oatmeal with raw blueberries and walnuts
- Slow-cooked pot roast with carrots and potatoes
- Baked chicken and steamed broccoli
- Stovetop rice and black beans
- Stir-fry fajitas with green peppers and onions
- Scrambled eggs with an english muffin and cream cheese
This is just a short list. All these meals take minimal preparation time. Some meals have longer cooking times. No problem. You get things started and read a book or walk the dog while it’s cooking.
Consider going microwave free. You could start by unplugging your microwave or moving it into the garage. If you can go without your microwave oven for a couple of weeks, you can go forever.
Learn more ways to live simple with my free ebook, The Happiness Of Simple.
