Microwaving potatoes may sound like a shortcut to soggy or uneven skin, but when done correctly, it is one of the fastest and most reliable ways to make soft, fluffy potatoes. If you’re in a hurry or just don’t feel like turning on the oven, using the microwave to cook potatoes is an effective and quick way to make this versatile comfort dish.
In this post, we’ll show you a simple way to microwave a potato with perfect results, along with some simple tips on how to enhance the texture and taste.
Table of Contents
Why Use The Microwave For Cooking?
Sometimes, an oven isn’t a practical option. Perhaps it is a hot summer day, and the oven just doesn’t seem practical. Or maybe you need to make lunch at work but only have access to a small microwave. The microwave is a quick and convenient way to cook a potato. The same thing that used to require an hour and a half over the phone can now be completed in under 10 minutes.
It’s not just potatoes. With just a few toppings and some know-how, you can create a fully loaded potato much faster than expected.
How To Choose The Right Potato
You must choose the correct potato type before beginning the cooking process. Roast potatoes will work best in a microwave oven. It is their high starch level that gives them the fluffy interior of traditional baked potatoes. The thicker peel also helps to keep the food in the microwavable.
For best results, use potatoes between medium and large sizes. If cooking multiple potatoes simultaneously, make sure they are all of the exact same size.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to microwave a potato.
1. Wash thoroughly
Rinse your potato with cold tap water to get rid of any dirt. Rub the skin lightly with a scrub brush or by hand. You should not skip this step. Even if it isn’t something you plan to consume, it will help keep dirt out of the food while cooking.
2. Prick the Skin
With a fork, poke the potato all around about 4-5 times. This allows steam to escape and prevents the potatoes from bursting while they cook. It’s an easy but vital step for safety and to cook properly.
3. Place on a microwave-safe plate
Place the potato into a microwave-safe bowl or plate. Wrapping it in plastic or foil is not necessary. Just leave the potato uncovered.
4. Microwave on High
Start by putting the potato in a microwave at high power. Microwave for 5 mins. After the timer is done, flip over the potato and continue to microwave for another 3 to 5 minutes according to its size.
A small one might only take about 6-7 minutes, but a larger potato will probably need around 10. When the center of a potato is easily pierced by a knife or if slid through with no resistance, then it’s cooked.
5. Let it Rest
Let the potato cool down after you’ve microwaved it. The steam inside the potato will continue cooking it gently and will make it easier for you to handle.
6. Slice and Fluff
Slice your potato lengthwise. Then gently squeeze both ends inwards toward the center. This will fluff up the insides of the potato, which makes it the ideal base for any toppings that you wish to add.
Texture And Taste Tips
Even though microwaving offers excellent speed, many people crave the crisp skin provided by an oven. It is possible to broil or bake the potato with golden skin by first microwaving it until it’s tender.
If you want to cook more than 1 potato at a given time, put them in the microwavable side-by-side without touching. Add 2-3 minutes extra per potato. Rotate the potatoes halfway through.
Easy Toppings To Try
After your potato has been cooked, you’re ready to top it. Choose to go simple or extravagant – it’s up to you.
Classic: Butter & sour cream with shredded cheddar and chives. Healthier: Greek yogurt & steamed broccoli, black pepper. Hearty, chili, shredded cheesy, diced onion. Fresh: Salsa & avocado.
The additions will turn your potato meal into an entire meal, with little preparation.
Final Thoughts
The ability to microwave a potato in the right way can make for an easy and delicious meal on busy days. A fluffy, perfectly cooked potato can be enjoyed in under 10 minutes with the right method. This method can be used to cook a meal for lunch or as a side at dinner.
Next time you’re craving baked potatoes, you can skip the long cooking time by using the microwave. You may be surprised by how convenient and tasty it is.
