I love potatoes. They are the quintessential comfort food, versatile, and delicious in so many different ways. From french fries to mashed potatoes, there’s just something about this starchy tuber that satisfies my cravings. And one of the best things about potatoes is how easy they are to cook. You can bake them in the oven, boil them on the stovetop, or even cook them in a microwave. In this article, I’ll be diving into the world of microwaving potatoes and answering the burning question – How long do potatoes take to cook in a microwave?
Preparing the Perfect Microwave Potato
Before we get into the cooking times, let’s talk about how to prepare your potatoes for the microwave. First, you’ll want to choose the right type of potato. Russet potatoes are an excellent choice for microwaving because they have a high starch content, which means they will be fluffy and tender when cooked.
Once you’ve selected your potatoes, it’s time to clean them. Give them a good scrub under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, using a sharp knife, poke a few holes in each potato. This is important because it allows steam to escape while the potato cooks, preventing any potential explosions. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Finally, before placing the potatoes in the microwave, lightly coat them with a thin layer of oil. This will help them cook evenly and develop a crispy skin. I like to use olive oil, but any cooking oil will do the trick. Now that our potatoes are prepared, it’s time to start cooking!
Microwaving Small Potatoes
If you’re working with small potatoes, those that are about 2 inches in diameter, they will cook relatively quickly in the microwave. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you out:
1. Place the small potatoes on a microwave-safe plate, making sure to leave some space between each potato.
2. Microwave the potatoes on high for approximately 4-5 minutes.
3. Carefully remove the plate from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel. The plate and potatoes will be hot, so be cautious!
4. Test the potatoes for doneness by inserting a fork into the center. If it goes in easily and the potatoes are tender, they’re ready to be enjoyed. If not, continue microwaving in 1-minute increments until they’re cooked to your desired level of tenderness.
Microwaving Medium to Large Potatoes
For medium to large potatoes, measuring about 3-4 inches in diameter, the microwave cooking time will be slightly longer. Follow these steps for fluffy, perfectly cooked potatoes:
1. Place the medium to large potatoes on a microwave-safe plate. Again, make sure to leave some space between each potato.
2. Microwave the potatoes on high for about 7-8 minutes.
3. Use oven mitts or a towel to carefully remove the plate from the microwave. Remember, it will be hot!
4. Test the potatoes for doneness by inserting a fork into the center. If it slides in easily and the potatoes are tender, they’re ready to be devoured. If they’re not quite there yet, continue microwaving in 1-minute increments until they reach your desired level of tenderness.
Microwaving Baked Potatoes
Now, let’s talk about everyone’s favorite – baked potatoes. These are typically larger and require a longer cooking time. But fear not, because the microwave is here to save you time! Here’s what you need to do:
1. Start by following the same preparation instructions as before – clean the potatoes, poke a few holes, and coat them with oil.
2. Place the potatoes on a microwave-safe plate, making sure they are evenly spaced.
3. Microwave the potatoes on high for around 10-12 minutes. Flip them over halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
4. Once the time is up, use oven mitts or a towel to remove the plate from the microwave. Remember, it will be hot!
5. Check the potatoes for doneness by giving them a gentle squeeze. If they yield easily to pressure and the insides are soft and fluffy, they’re ready to be enjoyed with your favorite toppings.
In Conclusion
So, how long do potatoes take to cook in a microwave? The answer depends on the size of the potatoes you’re working with. Small potatoes take about 4-5 minutes, medium to large potatoes take around 7-8 minutes, and baked potatoes require approximately 10-12 minutes in the microwave. Remember to adjust the cooking time based on the wattage of your microwave and the desired level of tenderness.
Microwaving potatoes is a quick and efficient way to enjoy this delicious and versatile vegetable. Whether you’re cooking a simple side dish or preparing a fully-loaded baked potato, the microwave can be your best friend in the kitchen. So give it a try and discover the wonders of microwaving potatoes today!