The Microwave Lesson Maneet Chauhan Learned From Chopped Contestants - Exclusive

Sure, contestants learn a lot from their famous mentors on cooking shows. But have you ever thought about what the mentors learn from the contestants? "Chopped" judge Maneet Chauhan sure has. In an exclusive interview with Mashed at the Sun Food and Wine Fest, the Food Network star explained, "I'm the kind of person who has drawn inspiration from each and every person who I come across ... That is how you grow as an individual."

She clearly applies the same philosophy to cooking: "I don't think that it needs to be an accomplished chef for you to learn anything from [them]." The celebrity chef would know — she's had plenty of opportunities to learn from both big names and relative unknowns throughout her career. Chauhan herself is known for her bubbly personality and knowledge of Indian cuisine, among her many accolades as a restaurateur. She also joined "Chopped" back in 2010, which has run for over 50 seasons to date. That much screen time means that the "Tournament of Champions" Season 2 winner has picked up a skill or two from contestants — including when it comes to microwave hacks.

When you think of useful kitchen appliances, your first thoughts might go to the oven and stovetop. But Maneet Chauhan says that the microwave is being underutilized by even the most well-decorated chefs. "As chefs, you do not give as much credence to the importance of the microwave, but you can use the microwave for a lot of things," Chauhan told Mashed.

"Contestants have used it to throw an entire button of squash in it, or a kombucha squash, and what would take hours, [they do] in minutes," she added. "I love it ... That is one of the biggest things that I've learned."

Of course, it's not the best idea to cook everything in the microwave, such as any sort of meat that will enable bacteria. But Business Insider explains that queso dip, vegetables, mug breakfasts, and eggs are all easily made with quick heat in the microwave. Broccoli is one of our favorite veggies to throw in for a minute or two, especially if it's being mixed with some leftover chicken and rice. But take a note from Chauhan and learn from the contestants throwing things into the microwave to beat a time crunch — sometimes, cooking is all about making it easier on the cook!

The annual Sun Wine and Food Fest is one of the largest and most popular wine festivals in the northeastern U.S., treating guests to a vast selection of wines and delicious food pairings. Keep up with Maneet Chauhan's current projects on her Instagram page.