My Love for Small Potatoes
Growing up, I used to watch my grandmother meticulously cook potatoes in a variety of ways. From boiling to roasting, she mastered it all. One particular method that always amazed me was her ability to cook small potatoes in the microwave. It was quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. Today, I’m going to share her secret method with you, so you too can enjoy perfectly cooked small potatoes in no time.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cleaning the Small Potatoes
The first step in cooking small potatoes in the microwave is to ensure they are clean. Rinse the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water, gently rubbing off any visible dirt or debris. No need to peel the potatoes, as their tender skins will add a delightful texture to the final dish.
Pricking the Potatoes
Next, take a fork and carefully prick each potato several times. This step is crucial as it allows steam to escape during the cooking process, preventing any potential explosions inside the microwave. Plus, these little holes will help the potatoes cook evenly, ensuring a fluffy interior.
Seasoning the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are clean and pricked, it’s time to season them. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated. This will not only add a delightful flavor but also help the seasoning adhere to the skins. Sprinkle coarse sea salt generously over the oiled potatoes, and if desired, add a pinch of black pepper for a subtle kick.
Arranging and Cooking
Now that our potatoes are prepped and seasoned, it’s time to arrange them for cooking. Place the potatoes on a microwave-safe plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not touching. This allows the microwaves to circulate evenly, ensuring each potato cooks to perfection.
Microwaving the Potatoes
Cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for the steam to escape. This step is crucial to prevent any messy microwave disasters! Place the plate in the microwave and cook the potatoes on high power for about 5-6 minutes.
Checking for Doneness
After the initial cooking duration, carefully remove the plate from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel, as it will be hot. Carefully remove the lid or plastic wrap, being cautious of the hot steam escaping. Gently press a fork or toothpick into one of the potatoes. If it slides in effortlessly and the potato feels soft, congratulations! Your small potatoes are perfectly cooked. If they need a bit more cooking time, place them back in the microwave for an additional minute or two.
Serving the Deliciousness
Once your small potatoes are cooked to your liking, remove them from the microwave and let them cool for a minute or two. This gives them time to firm up slightly, making it easier to handle. Serve them as a delightful side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or simply enjoy them on their own.
Get Creative with Toppings
While small potatoes are delicious on their own, you can also get creative with various toppings to elevate their flavors. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, or a handful of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and discover your favorite combination!
Conclusion
Cooking small potatoes in the microwave is a quick and easy method that will save you time without compromising on taste. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy fluffy, tender, and perfectly cooked potatoes in no time. So, why wait? Grab some small potatoes, follow this method, and savor the deliciousness that awaits you. Happy cooking!