I was never much of a cook. In fact, I used to rely on pre-packaged meals or takeout for the majority of my meals. However, recently I’ve been trying to make an effort to cook more homemade meals. One of the recipes that I’ve been eager to try is a baked potato. There’s just something so comforting about a warm, fluffy potato topped with all the fixings. However, I wasn’t sure how to go about cooking it. That’s when I discovered the wonder that is microwaving potatoes before baking. It’s a quick and easy way to achieve that perfect baked potato texture without having to wait hours for it to cook in the oven. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to microwave potatoes before baking.
Gather Your Ingredients and Materials
Before we dive into the process, let’s make sure we have everything we need. To microwave potatoes before baking, you’ll need:
Step 1: Clean and Prep the Potatoes
Start by giving your potatoes a good rinse under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Once they’re clean, use a knife to poke several holes around each potato. These holes are crucial as they allow steam to escape during the microwaving process and prevent the potatoes from exploding.
Step 2: Microwave the Potatoes
Place the potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with plastic wrap or a microwave-safe cover. The cover helps to trap the steam and cook the potatoes evenly. Microwave the potatoes on high for about 5 minutes, then carefully flip them over using a fork. Continue microwaving for another 5 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 3: Finish in the Oven
Once the potatoes are done microwaving, it’s time to finish them off in the oven to achieve that classic crispy skin. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you prepare the potatoes. Carefully remove the plastic wrap or cover from the potatoes and place them directly on the oven rack. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the skins are golden and crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the potatoes are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before handling. This will prevent any burns or accidents. Then, using a knife, cut a slit down the center of each potato and give them a gentle squeeze to open them up. This step helps to fluff up the flesh inside. Now, you can serve your microwaved and baked potatoes with all your favorite toppings. From sour cream and chives to melted cheese and crispy bacon, the possibilities are endless.
Microwaving potatoes before baking is a game-changer when it comes to cooking up a delicious baked potato in a fraction of the time. Not only does it save you hours of waiting for the potatoes to cook, but it also ensures that the flesh is perfectly tender and fluffy. Plus, the combination of the microwave and oven method gives you that desirable crispy skin that makes baked potatoes so irresistible.
Now that you have this quick and easy guide on how to microwave potatoes before baking, there’s no excuse not to whip up a batch of delicious baked potatoes for your next meal. Whether you’re making them as a side dish or a meal on their own, these microwaved and baked potatoes are guaranteed to impress. So, grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food. Happy cooking!