How To Cook Potatoes In The Microwave

How To Cook Potatoes In The Microwave

Are you craving a delicious potato dish but don’t have much time or a fully equipped kitchen? No worries – your microwave is here to save the day! Cooking potatoes in the microwave is a quick and convenient way to enjoy a tasty spud without the hassle. In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps to cook potatoes to perfection using only your microwave.

Choose the Right Potato

Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right type of potato. The best variety for microwave cooking is the russet potato. Its thick skin and starchy flesh make it ideal for microwaving, as it retains its shape and texture during cooking. Make sure to select potatoes that are firm, free of blemishes, and of similar size, for even cooking.

Preparation is Key

Once you’ve chosen your potatoes, it’s time to prepare them for the microwave. Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. If desired, you can leave the skin on for added texture and flavor, or peel it off if you prefer a smoother texture. After washing, pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.

Poking and Seasoning

To prevent your potatoes from exploding in the microwave, it’s essential to poke them with a fork or small knife a few times. This will allow steam to escape during cooking. If you’re looking to add a burst of flavor, sprinkle some salt, pepper, and other herbs or spices onto the potatoes. Some popular choices include garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary.

Microwave Cooking Time

Place the prepared potatoes on a microwave-safe plate or dish, making sure to leave some space between them for even cooking. If you’re cooking multiple potatoes, it is advisable to arrange them in a circle or slightly staggered pattern. This helps distribute the microwaves more evenly.

The cooking time will vary based on the size and strength of your microwave and the number of potatoes. As a general guideline, a medium-sized potato will take around 5-7 minutes on high power. If you’re cooking more than one potato, add an additional 2-3 minutes of cooking time for each extra potato.

Check for Doneness

To check if your potatoes are fully cooked, carefully insert a fork into the thickest part of the potato. If it slides in easily and the potato feels tender, it’s ready to be enjoyed. If the fork meets resistance, continue microwaving in one-minute increments until the potatoes are fully cooked.

Final Touches and Serving

Once your potatoes are cooked to perfection, remove them from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel to protect your hands from the heat. Let them rest for a couple of minutes before handling, as they will be piping hot.

Now it’s time for the fun part – serving and devouring your delicious microwaved potatoes! You can enjoy them as a simple side dish, topped with butter, sour cream, or your favorite toppings. If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider turning them into loaded baked potatoes by adding crispy bacon, melted cheese, and chives.

In conclusion, cooking potatoes in the microwave is a quick and convenient method that can produce satisfying results. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy tender, delicious potatoes in a fraction of the time. So the next time you’re craving a potato fix but find yourself short on time or kitchen resources, turn to your trusty microwave and make a delightful dish with minimal effort!