Do I need to cover the lid when cooking dumplings in the microwave

Microwave cooking dumplings generally does not require a lid, but if you are concerned about rapid evaporation or splashing of water, you can choose a microwave specific lid to leave a gap. The accumulation of water vapor during microwave heating may cause an increase in pressure, and open heating is safer. When heating dumplings in a microwave oven, water molecules rapidly vibrate and generate heat under the action of the microwave. Opening the container allows steam to naturally dissipate, avoiding risks caused by sudden pressure increases in the enclosed space. Dumpling skins are prone to water absorption and softening at high temperatures, and not covering them can help maintain moderate skin toughness. If high heat is used for heating, the evaporation rate of water will increase. You can pause flipping the dumplings halfway to ensure even heating. Some frozen dumplings have ice crystals on the surface, and direct heating may produce a popping sound due to local overheating. Lowering the power appropriately can reduce splashing.

In special circumstances where it is necessary to prevent food from drying out, a microwave special cover with breathable holes can be used, or covered with heat-resistant plastic wrap and punctured with small holes. When heating a deep mouthed container, steam tends to condense and drip at the top, and slight coverage can reduce water loss. However, attention should be paid to the temperature resistance limit of plastic products to avoid melting and contaminating food. When the edge of a ceramic bowl is thick, local overheating may cause the bottom of the dumpling to harden. Adding a layer of wet kitchen paper can improve the heating effect.

Microwave cooking requires adjusting the amount of water according to the number of dumplings. It is recommended to add 200ml of warm water to 300g of dumplings, heat on high heat for 3 minutes, and observe the condition. Thawing frozen dumplings and then heating them can enhance their taste, especially when paired with vinegar or chili oil. Clean the inner wall of the microwave oven promptly after use to avoid food residue from repeatedly heating and producing odors. If the dumpling filling contains eggs or dairy products, ensure that the center temperature reaches 75 degrees Celsius or above to ensure safety.