Why Does Salmon Explode in the Microwave?

Have you ever put a piece of salmon in the microwave, only to hear a loud popping sound and find that it has exploded all over the place? This can be a frustrating and messy experience, but have you ever wondered why it happens? In this article, we will explore the science behind why salmon explodes in the microwave.

What Causes Salmon to Explode in the Microwave?

One of the main reasons why salmon explodes in the microwave is due to its high fat content. Salmon is known for being a fatty fish, which means that it contains a lot of oil. When this oil heats up in the microwave, it can create steam that builds up inside the fish.

Why Does Steam Build Up Inside the Fish?

Microwaves work by using electromagnetic waves to heat up water molecules in food. As these water molecules heat up and turn into steam, they can create pressure inside the food. This pressure needs to be released somehow, otherwise, it will continue to build up until something gives way.

In the case of salmon, its high oil content means that there are more molecules that can turn into steam than there would be in a leaner fish like cod or haddock. This excess steam creates more pressure inside the fish, which can cause it to explode.

What Can You Do to Prevent Salmon from Exploding?

If you want to cook salmon in the microwave without having it explode everywhere, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, make sure that you poke some holes in the skin with a fork or knife before cooking it. This will allow some of the steam to escape and prevent too much pressure from building up inside.

  • You could also try cooking your salmon on a lower power setting for longer periods of time.
  • Covering the fish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap can also help to trap some of the steam and prevent it from building up too much.
  • Lastly, you could try cooking your salmon in a more traditional way, such as baking it in the oven or grilling it on a barbecue.

In Conclusion

Salmon exploding in the microwave is a common problem that many people face. However, by understanding the science behind why it happens and taking some simple precautions, you can cook salmon safely and without any messy accidents.

Remember to always poke some holes in the skin, cover the fish, and cook on lower power settings if possible. Happy cooking!

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Michael Allen