Why Do Eggs Explode in The Microwave?

We all know it and love it, because the microwave oven, for over 70 years now, has made our lives easier in the kitchen: practical, fast, economical and above all functional, given that the current versions allow you to prepare almost everything in the microwave, thanks to the many integrated functions. Almost everything, we said well, because there are foods that are better never cooked in the microwave: among these are eggs. Have you ever wondered why eggs explode in the microwave oven? And what if there are other foods that do the same?

Why Do Eggs Explode in The Microwave?

It is now well known, but there have been many accidents in the past: yet the explosion of the egg in the microwave is something that was discovered even before the patent, during tests. But why does it happen? The reason is simple: the inside of the egg, which is in a liquid state, changes to a gaseous state as the temperature rises: in the space of  45 – 60 seconds  it reaches an internal temperature well above 212°F/100°C. The steam that develops inside the shell remains practically trapped. If the pressure  increases and the steam can gradually escape, it creates a fairly violent explosion that can occur not only in the oven but also outside, immediately after taking it out, due to the sudden change in temperature. It is also something dangerous, because it can lead to burns and injuries to the face and eyes and even hearing problems.

Cooking an egg in the microwave is possible, however, if you follow a few rules: first remove the shell and place the egg in a small bowl; prick the yolk with a fork (this is where the steam condensation develops), then place a sheet of baking paper on the bowl and then proceed with cooking. If you want to prepare a hard-boiled egg, however, it is better to proceed with the traditional method.

What Foods Explode in The Microwave?

Not only eggs, but also other foods explode if you cook them in the microwave: here's which ones.

1. Peppers and chili peppers: the skin of these products has a particular structure that reflects magnetic waves and could cause sparks, even damaging the microwave in some cases.
2. Grapes: Fruits covered with a thin layer of skin may explode like eggs, although the softer skin would certainly cause less damage than an eggshell.
3. Berries, fruits and vegetables with the skin in general. For the same reason and especially if they are berries with hard skin, the condensation that forms inside could generate a small explosion.
4. Potatoes: you can put potatoes in the microwave but it is always better to peel them first or prick the skin with a fork.