Microwaves can heat various substances and materials, but there are certain items they can heat without actually "cooking" them in the traditional sense. Cooking typically involves a chemical change in the food due to the application of heat over time. In contrast, when microwaves heat certain items, they might only raise the temperature without causing significant chemical changes that result in cooked food.
Here are some examples of things microwaves can heat but not cook:
Water: Microwaves can quickly heat water, making it hot enough for various purposes like making hot beverages or instant soups. However, it won't undergo any chemical changes like boiling or evaporation that occur during cooking.
Beverages: Similar to water, microwaves can heat beverages like milk or tea without cooking them. They may become warm or hot, but they won't undergo cooking processes like caramelization or browning.
Pre-cooked Food: If you have leftover cooked food, microwaving can heat it to a desired serving temperature. However, it won't undergo additional cooking or alter the taste and texture like traditional cooking methods.
Frozen Foods: Microwaves can defrost frozen items like meat, vegetables, or bread, bringing them to a safe temperature for consumption. However, they won't be fully cooked through in the microwave alone.
Certain Fruits and Vegetables: Microwaves can slightly heat fruits and vegetables, making them warm and potentially softer. However, they won't undergo the same cooking transformations as they would with traditional cooking methods like roasting or boiling.
Leftover Pizza: Microwaving leftover pizza can heat it up, but it may not result in the crispy texture you get from oven reheating.
It's essential to use microwaves safely and according to the manufacturer's instructions. While they can heat various items, it's crucial to recognize that microwaving might not always achieve the same results as other cooking methods that involve more significant heat application and time.