PICTURE: PEXELS/LEFTOVER FOOD
Wouldn’t it be amazing if reheated food could taste as delicious as when it was freshly prepared? While certain foods like crispy fries may never regain their original glory, the right reheating method can work wonders.
But there are times when you might only have an office microwave or you might not want to use the original cooking method for reheating, like deep-frying chicken again. So what do you do in these instances? Whether you’re at home with a full kitchen or relying on a trusty microwave, here’s how to bring your leftovers back to life.
The golden rule for reheating leftovers
Whenever possible, reheat food using the same method it was originally cooked. For example, soups do best in a pot, while roasted chicken shines in the oven. But what if you don’t have the same tools or want a quicker alternative? We have a few tips for certain foods and the right reheating techniques.
The oven
The oven reheating method is your go-to for even heating
Perfect for: Pizza, roasted meats, baked goods, seafood, and crusty breads. The oven provides consistent, even heating, making it ideal for foods that need a gentle touch.
How to do it: Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F). Cover dishes like meats or breads with foil to lock in moisture, and check frequently. Pizza and baked goods like pies or muffins can go directly on a baking tray for a crispy finish.
Pro tip: Refresh stale cookies or bread with a quick 5-minute warm-up.
The microwave
Perfect for: Soups, casseroles, rice, pasta, stir-fries, and vegetables
The microwave is unbeatable for quick reheating and works best for moist dishes, but it can dry out or unevenly cook food if used incorrectly.
How to do it: Spread food in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying, and stir halfway through. Heat in short intervals (30-60 seconds) to avoid overcooking.
Pro tip: When reheating meals with different textures, microwave denser items (like meats) first, then add lighter sides like rice or veggies.
Stovetop
Perfect for: Soups, stews, pasta, stir-fries, and single slices of pizza
The stovetop is excellent for quick precision and bringing back the original texture of saucy or moist dishes.
How to do it: Use a pan or pot over low to medium heat. Stir often to ensure even heating. Add a splash of liquid (water, broth, or milk) to pasta or rice to restore moisture.
Pro tip: For pizza, heat a slice in a frying pan with a lid on. Add a drop of water to the pan (away from the pizza) to create steam, melting the cheese while crisping the crust.
What about fries?
We’ve all experienced the horrible taste of reheating leftover fries and it’s bad enough to completely put you off! The best way to revive them is in a hot frying pan with a bit of oil. Lay the fries in a single layer and toss frequently until golden. Skip the microwave—it’ll leave them soggy and sad.
Whether you’re saving yesterday’s dinner or making the most of takeout, you can enjoy meals that taste almost as good as new—maybe even better!
Compiled by Maegan-Leigh Jacobs
First published by Food & Home
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