Growing up in a Korean household, I have always been surrounded by delicious and exotic flavors. One of my all-time favorite dishes is Korean sweet potatoes. These vibrant and nutritious tubers are not only packed with vitamins and minerals but also have a naturally sweet and creamy taste that is simply irresistible.
Traditionally, Korean sweet potatoes are roasted in the oven or cooked on an open fire, which can take quite a bit of time and effort. However, I have recently discovered a quick and easy way to cook them in the microwave. Not only does this method save time, but it also produces perfectly tender and flavorful sweet potatoes every time. In this article, I will walk you through the steps to cook Korean sweet potatoes in the microwave, so you can enjoy this delightful treat in no time.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we start, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Korean sweet potatoes: Look for sweet potatoes with reddish-purple skin and pale yellow flesh. They are commonly found in Asian grocery stores or specialty markets.
– Olive oil: This will help to enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and give them a nice, crispy skin.
– Salt: Just a pinch of salt will bring out the flavors and balance the sweetness of the potatoes.
Prepare and Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Step 1: Wash and Pierce
Start by washing the sweet potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Once clean, use a fork to pierce the potatoes a few times all around. This will allow steam to escape and prevent the potatoes from bursting in the microwave.
Step 2: Coat with Olive Oil and Salt
Next, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over each sweet potato, making sure they are evenly coated. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the oiled potatoes, or you can also add your favorite herbs and spices for extra flavor.
Step 3: Microwave
Place the sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and microwave them on high for about 5 minutes. Depending on the size and freshness of your sweet potatoes, you may need to adjust the cooking time. To check if they are done, simply insert a knife into the thickest part of the potato. If it goes through easily, they are ready to be enjoyed.
Step 4: Let Them Rest
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, it’s important to let them rest for a few minutes. This allows them to cool slightly and finish cooking through, ensuring a soft and tender texture.
Serving and Enjoying
Now that your Korean sweet potatoes are perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. Here are a few delicious ways to savor this delightful treat:
– Simply peel the skin off the potatoes and enjoy them as is. The natural sweetness and creamy texture are delicious on their own.
– Cut the soft flesh into chunks and add them to a salad for a burst of color and flavor.
– Mash the cooked sweet potatoes with a fork and serve as a side dish. You can enhance the natural sweetness by adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
– Use the mashed sweet potatoes as a filling for sweet potato pancakes or dumplings.
With their vibrant color, sweet flavor, and creamy texture, Korean sweet potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in various dishes. Whether you choose to eat them as a snack or incorporate them into your meals, cooking them in the microwave is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this Korean delicacy. So go ahead, give it a try, and discover the deliciousness that awaits you in each bite.