Today every kitchen would seem “under-equipped” without a microwave, with its efficient ability to cook, defrost and reheat a variety of different foods. The handy appliance uses microwave radiation to do so. This is a type of electromagnetic radiation similar to radio waves and infrared light.

Although generally recognised as safe, the internet is awash with articles about the dangers microwave radiation poses to your food. Some claim using microwaves can cause “cataracts and cancer”. Other posts says it “zaps the nutrients right out of your food”.

Most of us don't have a lot of time in the morning to cook a luxurious breakfast, but this technique from Epicurious delivers one of the most delicious-looking egg sandwiches I've seen in minutes, and all you need is an egg, a microwave and some sandwich fixings (you know: bread, cheese and a few condiments).

Microwaves don't have the best culinary reputation. We associate them with frozen convenience meals and bleak office kitchens. That's too bad, however, because the ol' science oven can save you a lot of time and effort.

Perhaps you are a humble college student without the accoutrement of a well-stocked kitchen, and perhaps you just want to make some gosh darn ramen. Can you put your coffee maker to use and make a meal without any other kitchen appliances?