Broken Microwave? 5 Smart Ways To Reheat Frozen Food Without One

Let us be honest, microwaves have made us all a bit lazy. One button, two minutes, and boom—yesterday's rajma chawal is back in action. But what happens when the microwave dies on you mid-craving? You do not spiral. You go old-school. Remember when reheating food meant more than pressing ‘start'? There are smarter (and arguably tastier) ways to bring frozen food back to life, and they do not involve any fancy appliances. Whether you are warming up dal or crisping leftover spring rolls, these practical hacks will get the job done with zero fuss.

Also Read:Microwave Maintenance Made Easy: 5 Tips To Keep Microwave Squeaky Clean

Here Are 5 Ways To Reheat Frozen Food Without A Microwave

1. Steam It: Best For Dal, Khichdi Or Anything Mushy

Got a container of frozen khichdi or maybe some dal that looks like a brick? Time to call in the steamer. Grab your idli steamer or even a dhokla stand. Put the frozen food in a steel or glass bowl, place it inside, and steam it over boiling water for 10–15 minutes. It will slowly thaw and heat up while staying soft and moist—unlike the patchy microwaved mess we have all seen. Perfect for any dish that needs a gentle touch.

2. Use A Kadhai With a Lid: Best For Sabzis And Gravies

If you have got masala-laden sabzis or curry sitting in the freezer, do not bother thawing. Just add the frozen block to a kadhai with a splash of water, milk, or even stock to revive it. Cover with a lid and cook on a low flame, stirring in between. The steam inside will warm it evenly, and the direct heat from below keeps things tasting just cooked. Your microwave could never.

3. Oven Time: Best For Anything Crispy

Microwaving a samosa is a crime. It deserves better. Use your oven instead. Preheat to 180°C, place the frozen item on a tray (lined, please), and bake for 10–15 minutes. Spring rolls, pizza, garlic bread, leftover cutlets - they all get their crunch back. A light brush of oil or butter on top just before baking makes everything taste like it never saw a freezer.

4. Tawa Fix: Best For Parathas And Flatbreads

Microwaved parathas are just sad - limp, chewy and cold in the middle. Enter: the tawa. Heat it, slap on the paratha, press gently, and flip till it is warm and golden. A few drops of ghee can revive even the driest thepla. Great for stuffed parathas, rotis or anything that deserves to be treated with respect.

5. Boil-In-Bag: Best For Sealed Meals And Rice Dishes

If your food is in a sealed, freezer-safe bag or container, drop it in a pot of hot water and let it simmer away. No direct flame, no burnt edges—just even heating. This trick is perfect for dal makhani, soups, biryani, or anything too precious to mess up. Let it float around for 10–12 minutes, then dig in.

Also Read:Is It Safe To Microwave Food In Plastic Containers - Expert Opinion

So next time your microwave conks off mid-meal prep, do not panic. These hacks have you covered.