I remember the first time I attempted to cook yams in the microwave. It was a Sunday afternoon, and I had a sudden craving for a sweet and savory side dish to accompany my roast chicken. However, I didn’t have the time or patience to wait for the yams to cook in the oven. That’s when I decided to give the microwave a try. To my surprise, it was quick, easy, and resulted in perfectly cooked yams. In this article, I will guide you through the simple process of microwaving yams, so you can enjoy this delicious side dish in no time.
Gathering the Ingredients and Tools
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure we have everything we need. Here’s a list of ingredients and tools you’ll need to microwave yams:
Ingredients:
– Yams
– Olive oil or butter
– Salt
Tools:
– A microwave-safe dish
– A fork
– A sharp knife
– A microwave oven
Now that we have everything ready let’s move on to the next step.
Preparing the Yams
The first step in microwaving yams is to prepare them properly. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Wash the Yams
Using water and a vegetable brush, gently scrub the yams to remove any dirt or debris from the skin. It’s essential to wash yams thoroughly before cooking to ensure a clean and safe meal.
Step 2: Poking Holes
Take a fork and pierce the yams multiple times. These holes will allow steam to escape during the cooking process, preventing any potential explosions or messes in your microwave.
Step 3: Slicing the Yams
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the yams in half lengthwise. This step is crucial as it ensures even cooking and reduces the cooking time significantly.
With the yams prepared, let’s move on to the exciting part – cooking them in the microwave!
Microwaving the Yams
Cooking yams in the microwave is a relatively quick and straightforward process. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly cooked yams in no time:
Step 1: Place in a Microwave-Safe Dish
Take your sliced yams and place them in a microwave-safe dish. It’s essential to choose a dish that is large enough to hold the yams comfortably and allows for proper cooking.
Step 2: Drizzle with Olive Oil or Butter
For added flavor and moisture, drizzle a little olive oil or place a small pat of butter on each yam half. This step will ensure your yams are deliciously tender.
Step 3: Sprinkle with Salt
Season the yams with a pinch of salt to enhance their natural sweetness and balance out the flavors. Feel free to use your preferred type of salt, whether it be sea salt, kosher salt, or table salt.
Step 4: Cover and Cook
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plastic wrap. This step helps trap the steam and speeds up the cooking process. Make sure to leave a small vent to allow steam to escape and prevent pressure buildup.
Step 5: Microwave on High
Place the dish in the microwave and cook the yams on high power. The cooking time will depend on the size and quantity of your yams. As a general guideline, microwave two medium-sized yam halves for approximately 6-8 minutes.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and check the yams for doneness. Pierce the flesh with a fork, and if it goes through easily and the yams feel tender, they are ready. If they are still firm, return them to the microwave and cook in one-minute increments until done.
Step 7: Let Them Rest
Once the yams are cooked to your desired tenderness, it’s essential to let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the yams are at their flavorful best.
Serving and Enjoying
Congratulations! You’ve successfully microwaved yams. Now it’s time to serve and enjoy this delicious side dish. Here are a few serving suggestions:
– Serve the microwaved yams as a standalone side dish, perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
– Mash the cooked yams and serve them as a sweet and creamy base for your favorite proteins, such as grilled chicken or roasted pork.
– Top the yams with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, sprinkle with chopped herbs, and serve them as an appetizer or party snack.
Final Thoughts
Microwaving yams is a simple and convenient way to enjoy this versatile and nutritious root vegetable. With just a few easy steps and minimal preparation time, you can have perfectly cooked yams on your plate in no time. So go ahead, give it a try, and elevate your meals with the natural sweetness and vibrant colors of yams cooked in the microwave!