I’ve always been a fan of sweet potatoes. Their vibrant orange color and sweet, earthy flavor have won me over time and time again. And while I enjoy baking them in the oven or boiling them on the stovetop, there are times when I simply don’t have the patience to wait for them to cook. That’s when my trusty microwave comes to the rescue. In this article, I’ll share with you my tried and true method for cooking sweet potatoes in the microwave for quick and easy meals.
Why sweet potatoes in the microwave?
1. Time-saving:
When you’re short on time, the microwave is your best friend. Unlike traditional cooking methods that can take up to an hour, cooking sweet potatoes in the microwave is a lightning-fast process. In just minutes, you’ll have tender, perfectly cooked sweet potatoes ready to be enjoyed.
2. Energy-efficient:
Using a microwave to cook sweet potatoes is more energy-efficient than heating up the oven or boiling water on the stovetop. This means you’ll be saving both time and money on your energy bill.
3. Versatility:
Microwaving sweet potatoes allows you to have complete control over their doneness. Whether you prefer them soft and tender or slightly crispy on the outside, the microwave can meet all your preferences.
Step-by-step guide: Cooking sweet potatoes in the microwave
Step 1: Choose the right sweet potato
Not all sweet potatoes are equal when it comes to microwave cooking. Look for small to medium-sized sweet potatoes with smooth, unblemished skin. This will ensure even cooking and a delicious end result.
Step 2: Prep your sweet potato
Wash your sweet potato under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel. Next, poke a few holes in the skin using a fork. This will allow steam to escape and prevent any potential explosions.
Step 3: Cook your sweet potato
Place your prepared sweet potato on a microwave-safe plate or dish. Microwave on high for 5 minutes. Flip the sweet potato over and microwave for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until it is soft and tender.
Step 4: Let it rest
Once your sweet potato is cooked to perfection, remove it from the microwave using oven mitts or a kitchen towel, as it will be hot. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before handling.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Now that your sweet potato is perfectly cooked, it’s time to enjoy your creation. You can simply slice it open and enjoy it as is, or get creative and add your favorite toppings like butter, cinnamon, or even a drizzle of maple syrup. The possibilities are endless.
Cooking tips and tricks
– If you’re cooking multiple sweet potatoes at once, increase the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure they are all properly cooked.
– If you prefer your sweet potatoes to have a crispy skin, lightly brush them with olive oil before microwaving.
– Remember to always use oven mitts or a kitchen towel when handling hot sweet potatoes to prevent burns.
– If your sweet potato is still firm after microwaving, simply return it to the microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
So there you have it, my foolproof method for cooking sweet potatoes in the microwave. With just a few simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked sweet potatoes in no time. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a satisfying main course, the microwave has got your back. So go ahead, give it a try, and unlock the deliciousness of microwaved sweet potatoes.