Microwave magic

We all use the microwave to reheat leftovers, warm baby's milk or freshen up leftover coffee. But there are other quick jobs that aren't really cooking, just speedy shortcuts:

• If you forget to take the butter out of the fridge to soften for baking give it a quick blast (not too long or it will melt).
• Instead of using a bain-marie for melting chocolate, break it in pieces and put in a glass bowl. Again, give it just a short zap to start the melting process.
• Give honey a quick blast to make it easier to measure in a tablespoon.
• If you don't want to heat the grill for a bacon sandwich, lay the rashers on a plate, cover with a piece of kitchen paper and microwave for several minutes (depending on the power level) till done.

You can also toast nuts and seeds in the microwave instead of in a conventional oven, where it's so easy to burn them. Cook until they just begin to turn colour and give off a toasted aroma. Allow to cool before tasting for doneness.