I have always been a lover of cooking, but there are days when I simply don’t have the time or energy to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s when I turn to my trusty microwave for a quick and easy meal. One of my favorite things to cook in the microwave is sweet potatoes. Not only are they nutritious and delicious, but they can also be cooked effortlessly with just a few simple steps. In this article, I will guide you through the process of cooking sweet potatoes in the microwave using a wet paper towel. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Gathering the Ingredients
The first step in this effortless cooking process is gathering the necessary ingredients. Luckily, there are only two things you need for this recipe:
1. Sweet potatoes – Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and have smooth, unblemished skin. Depending on your appetite, you can use as many sweet potatoes as you want. I usually go for two medium-sized ones.
2. Wet paper towel – Yes, you read that right! A wet paper towel is a secret ingredient when it comes to cooking sweet potatoes in the microwave. It helps to lock in the moisture and prevents the sweet potatoes from drying out during the cooking process.
Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to prepare the sweet potatoes for cooking. Follow these simple steps:
1. Wash the sweet potatoes – Before anything else, give the sweet potatoes a good wash under cold running water. Scrub them gently to remove any dirt or debris from the skin. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
2. Prick the sweet potatoes – Take a fork and prick the sweet potatoes all over. This step is crucial as it allows steam to escape while the sweet potatoes are cooking, preventing any explosions in the microwave.
Cooking the Sweet Potatoes
With the sweet potatoes prepped and ready, it’s time to cook them to perfection in the microwave. Follow these steps:
1. Dampen the paper towel – Wet a paper towel under the faucet until it is moist but not dripping. Make sure the entire paper towel is wet, as this will create steam that will help cook the sweet potatoes evenly.
2. Wrap the sweet potatoes – Place the sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and lay the damp paper towel over them. Wrap the sweet potatoes and the paper towel loosely but make sure they are completely covered. The paper towel will create a steaming effect and ensure your sweet potatoes stay moist and tender.
3. Microwave the sweet potatoes – Place the plate with the wrapped sweet potatoes in the microwave. Set the microwave on high heat and cook for 5 minutes. Afterward, flip the sweet potatoes over and cook for another 5 minutes. The total cooking time may vary depending on the size and wattage of your microwave, so adjust accordingly.
4. Check for doneness – Carefully remove the plate from the microwave using oven mitts or kitchen towels, as it will be hot. Unwrap the sweet potatoes and check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the flesh. If it goes in easily and the sweet potatoes feel soft, they are done. If not, microwave them for an additional 1-2 minutes until tender.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your sweet potatoes are perfectly cooked, it’s time to dig in. Here are a few serving suggestions to make your meal even more delectable:
1. Sweet and savory – Drizzle honey or maple syrup over your cooked sweet potatoes for a touch of natural sweetness. You can also sprinkle some sea salt or cinnamon for a delicious sweet and savory combination.
2. Mexican-style – Top your sweet potatoes with some black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, avocado, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a Mexican-inspired twist.
3. Loaded goodness – Create a loaded sweet potato by adding your favorite toppings, such as crispy bacon, shredded cheese, green onions, and a scoop of guacamole or salsa.
Conclusion
Cooking sweet potatoes in the microwave with a wet paper towel is a kitchen hack that I can’t recommend enough. It’s a simple and effortless way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal, especially when you’re short on time. With just a few minutes in the microwave, you can have perfectly cooked sweet potatoes that are tender, flavorful, and versatile enough to be served with a variety of toppings and accompaniments. Give this method a try and revolutionize your cooking game in the simplest way possible!