By Karaline Harrell
Staff Writer
Coffee mugs can hold far more than just a morning caffeine infusion.
“On-campus students are required to have a meal plan,” according to Joshua Brittian, Residential Assistant for Crossroads Hall. Although Tyler Junior College does offer several dining options to students, “unfortunately, when those are closed, students can’t really use their meal plan.”
With a little effort and creativity, students can cook various meals and snacks using a coffee mug and a microwave. Even though off-campus students have more access to full kitchens, they are often either looking for a snack or just cooking for themselves. Bittian did confirm that every dorm has a microwave for 24-hour use, meaning students can use the following recipes to create their own dining experiences:
“1 Minute Microwave Quiche”: 1 egg, 4 grape tomatoes, 1 teaspoon melted butter, ¼ cup whole milk, 1 tablespoon cheese, 4-5 bite size pieces of bread, and chopped fresh herbs (optional). Add the egg and butter to the mug. After stirring the mixture with the fork, add the remaining ingredients, remove the fork and microwave on high for 1 minute. Serve immediately.
The microwave is also a great place to steam vegetables for a quick snack. This method works well for many vegetables including broccoli, peas, and carrots. Mixing different types of veggies in the same mug or bowl will offer variety according to personal preference.
After cutting the raw vegetables, add enough water to cover approximately 1/8 of the vegetables. Cover and cook in the microwave for 2 minutes. Test for softness and flip or stir if desired. Cook for four minutes or until properly softened
Tyler Junior College sophomore Haley Bains used this method and tried steaming some broccoli in the microwave.
“It was actually really good. I put a teaspoon of butter in to add some flavor, but other than that it’s a healthy choice and super easy to make,” she said.
For those with a sweet tooth, the trendy, “Brownie in a Mug” is a delicious option that, when done properly, can be low-fat and even sugar free. You will need:
3 tbsp Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
1/4 cup Unsweetened Applesauce
1/4 tsp Baking Powder
Pinch of Salt
1 tsp Vanilla
1 tsp-1 tbsp Maple Syrup
Combine ingredients in no particular order, and stir until smooth. Microwave for one minute, then additional one minute intervals until cooked to preference. For gooey, fudge-like brownies, 2-3 minutes will suffice. For a cake-like consistency 4-5 minutes will achieve the desired texture.
Bains said, “It’s a cheap choice and is better for you than going out for dessert.”
Although Brittian said he has seen his residents get rather creative with snacking options, utilizing the microwave offers endless opportunities for healthy, filling options alike. For more recipes, visit mytjcnews.com.
