I love potatoes, and one of my all-time favorite potato dishes is creamy mashed potatoes. There’s just something so comforting and satisfying about a heaping mound of perfectly mashed spuds. However, sometimes I don’t have the time or patience to boil a pot of water and cook the potatoes on the stove. That’s when I turn to my trusty microwave to get the job done quickly and easily. In this article, I’ll share with you my step-by-step guide on how to microwave potatoes for mashing. So grab your spuds and let’s get started!
Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
First things first, you’ll need to gather all your ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
– Potatoes (I prefer using russet potatoes for their starchy texture)
– Water
– Salt (to taste)
– Butter (optional)
– Milk or cream (optional)
Tools:
– Microwave-safe dish with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap
– Fork or knife for piercing the potatoes
– Potato masher or fork for mashing the potatoes
Prep the Potatoes
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to prep the potatoes for microwaving. Here’s how to do it:
1. Start by washing the potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Make sure to scrub them well, especially if you’re leaving the skin on, like I do for added texture and nutrients.
2. Use a fork or knife to pierce each potato a few times. This will allow steam to escape while microwaving and prevent them from exploding. Trust me, you don’t want to deal with a messy microwave!
Microwave the Potatoes
With the potatoes prepped and ready, it’s time to cook them in the microwave. Follow these steps:
1. Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and add a little bit of water. The water will create steam and help cook the potatoes evenly.
2. Cover the dish with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Make sure to leave a small vent for steam to escape if using plastic wrap.
3. Microwave the potatoes on high for about 4 to 6 minutes per potato, depending on its size. You can start with 4 minutes and then check for doneness by piercing them with a fork. If the fork slides in easily and the potatoes are tender, they’re ready.
4. Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the microwave. Keep in mind that it will be hot, so use oven mitts or kitchen towels to handle it.
Mash the Potatoes
Now that the potatoes are perfectly cooked, it’s time to mash them to creamy perfection. Here’s how:
1. If you left the skins on, let the potatoes cool for a few minutes, then use your hands or a knife to gently peel off the skin. If you prefer skinless mashed potatoes, you can peel them before microwaving.
2. Transfer the cooked potatoes to a bowl or another microwave-safe dish. Add a pinch of salt and any other seasonings you like. I often add a knob of butter for richness and a splash of milk or cream for creaminess.
3. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. If you like your mashed potatoes chunky, you can opt for a fork and lightly mash them for a rustic texture.
4. If the mashed potatoes are too thick, you can add more milk or cream and continue mashing until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to overmix, or they may become gluey.
Enjoy Your Homemade Mashed Potatoes
Congratulations! You’ve successfully microwaved and mashed your potatoes to create a delicious side dish. Serve the mashed potatoes hot and enjoy them alongside your favorite main course. They pair perfectly with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a simple vegetarian meal. Feel free to get creative and add your own twist by incorporating herbs, garlic, cheese, or any other flavorings you love. Now go ahead, dig in, and savor every creamy spoonful of homemade microwaved mashed potatoes. Happy cooking!