I have always been a fan of sweet potatoes. They are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. However, baking sweet potatoes in the oven can take a long time, especially when you are in a hurry. That’s when I discovered a quick and easy way to enjoy sweet potatoes – by microwaving them. In this article, I will share with you a simple guide on how to microwave sweet potatoes to perfection.
Choosing the Right Sweet Potato
Step 1:
Start by selecting the right sweet potatoes. Look for ones that are firm and have smooth skin. Avoid any sweet potatoes that have soft spots or are wrinkled.
Step 2:
Decide how many sweet potatoes you want to microwave. Keep in mind that the cooking time will vary depending on the size and number of sweet potatoes. Small to medium-sized sweet potatoes tend to cook more evenly in the microwave.
Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
Step 1:
Give the sweet potatoes a good wash under running water. Make sure to scrub off any dirt or debris on the skin. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
Step 2:
Prick the sweet potatoes all over with a fork. This is an important step to prevent them from exploding in the microwave. The fork creates small holes that allow steam to escape during cooking.
Step 3:
(Optional) If you prefer a softer skin, you can rub a bit of olive oil or butter on the sweet potatoes. This will help keep the skin moist during cooking.
Microwaving the Sweet Potatoes
Step 1:
Place the prepared sweet potatoes on a microwave-safe dish. Make sure to leave some space between each sweet potato to allow for even cooking.
Step 2:
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help trap the steam and cook the sweet potatoes more quickly.
Step 3:
Microwave the sweet potatoes on high power for about 5 minutes. Check the sweet potatoes halfway through and give them a gentle squeeze. They should feel slightly tender. If they are still hard, continue microwaving in 1-minute increments until they are cooked to your liking.
Step 4:
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, carefully remove them from the microwave using oven mitts or a kitchen towel. Be cautious as they will be hot.
Serving and Enjoying
Step 1:
Allow the sweet potatoes to cool for a few minutes before handling or cutting into them. This will prevent any burns and make it easier to peel or slice.
Step 2:
Cut the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise. They should be soft and easy to slice into. You can also leave them whole if you prefer.
Step 3:
Serve the microwaved sweet potatoes as a side dish or a main course. You can enjoy them with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, a dollop of butter, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
Microwaving sweet potatoes is not only a time-saver but also a convenient way to enjoy this nutritious and versatile vegetable. With just a few simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked sweet potatoes in no time. Give it a try and savor the deliciousness of microwaved sweet potatoes!