I have always been a fan of sweet potatoes. Whether they are roasted, mashed, or baked, their natural sweetness and soft texture make them a delicious addition to any meal. Recently, I discovered a new way to prepare sweet potatoes that has quickly become my favorite – microwaving sweet potato slices. This quick and easy cooking method not only saves time but also locks in the natural flavors and nutrients of the sweet potatoes. In this article, I will share with you some foolproof tips to help you master the art of microwaving sweet potato slices.
Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s important to choose the right sweet potatoes. Look for sweet potatoes that are firm and have smooth skin. Avoid any sweet potatoes that have soft spots, blemishes, or wrinkled skin. The size of the sweet potatoes doesn’t matter as long as they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
Washing and Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
Once you have chosen your sweet potatoes, it’s time to wash and prepare them for microwaving. Start by giving them a good scrub under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean towel and then peel off the skin using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife.
After peeling, slice the sweet potatoes into even 1/4-inch thick rounds. It’s important to ensure that all the slices are similar in thickness so they cook evenly. If you have a mandoline slicer, it can be a great tool to get consistent slices.
Seasoning the Sweet Potato Slices
Now that the sweet potato slices are ready, it’s time to add some delicious flavors. You can keep it simple and sprinkle them with salt and pepper, or you can get creative with your favorite spices and herbs. Some popular options include garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon, or rosemary. Drizzle the slices with a little bit of olive oil to help them crisp up in the microwave.
Arranging the Slices on a Microwave-Safe Plate
To ensure even cooking, arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Avoid overcrowding the plate as this can result in uneven cooking. If you have a large number of slices, you may need to work in batches.
Microwaving the Sweet Potato Slices
Now comes the exciting part – microwaving the sweet potato slices! Place the plate with the sweet potato slices in the microwave and cook on high for about 4-6 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the thickness of the slices.
After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the plate from the microwave and flip the slices over using a fork or tongs. Return the plate to the microwave and continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes or until the sweet potato slices are tender and slightly browned on the edges.
Serving and Enjoying the Microwaved Sweet Potato Slices
Once the sweet potato slices are cooked to perfection, remove them from the microwave and let them cool for a minute or two. They will be hot, so be careful when handling them. Transfer the slices to a serving plate and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as fresh herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Microwaved sweet potato slices make a delicious and nutritious side dish for any meal. They pair well with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even as a topping for salads or sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!
Final Thoughts
Microwaving sweet potato slices is a game-changer when it comes to saving time in the kitchen without compromising on taste and texture. With the right preparations and a few simple tips, you can effortlessly master the art of microwaving sweet potato slices. So next time you’re craving a quick and healthy side dish, give this method a try and savor the natural sweetness of microwaved sweet potato slices.