Want a perfectly cooked potato in minutes? Forget the oven – the microwave is your new best friend! This guide will walk you through several methods for cooking potatoes in the microwave, from fluffy baked potatoes to crispy roasted wedges. We'll cover everything from prep to cooking times and tips for achieving that ideal texture.
Choosing Your Potato
The type of potato you choose will impact the final result.
- Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for baking, producing a fluffy interior perfect for toppings.
- Red Potatoes: These hold their shape well and are great for roasting or microwaving whole.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes: These offer a buttery texture and are versatile for various cooking methods.
Method 1: The Classic Microwaved Baked Potato
This method is perfect for a quick and easy baked potato.
What you'll need:
- 1 large russet potato
- 1 tablespoon water (optional)
Instructions:
- Prep: Wash the potato thoroughly and pierce it several times with a fork. This prevents steam buildup and potential explosions!
- Microwave: Place the potato on a microwave-safe plate. Add a tablespoon of water (optional – this helps with steaming and can reduce cooking time).
- Cook: Microwave on high for 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking time depends on the size of the potato and your microwave's wattage. A larger potato will require longer cooking times. Check for doneness by inserting a fork; it should easily pierce the center.
- Rest: Let the potato rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the steam to escape and the potato to finish cooking evenly.
Pro Tip: For extra fluffy insides, you can wrap the potato in a damp paper towel before microwaving.
Method 2: Microwaved Potato Wedges
Crispy potato wedges without the oven? Yes, it's possible!
What you'll need:
- 2 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Your favorite seasonings (e.g., garlic powder, paprika, onion powder)
Instructions:
- Prep: Cut the potatoes into wedges. Aim for even-sized wedges for even cooking.
- Toss: Toss the wedges with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your chosen seasonings.
- Microwave: Arrange the wedges in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking time will depend on your microwave and the size of the wedges.
- Crisp (Optional): For extra crispiness, you can broil the wedges for a minute or two after microwaving. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Pro Tip: Using a microwave-safe crisping plate can enhance the crispiness of your wedges.
Method 3: Quick Microwaved Mashed Potatoes
Need mashed potatoes in a flash? This method is for you.
What you'll need:
- 2 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet potatoes are good choices)
- Milk or cream
- Butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prep: Peel and chop the potatoes into small, roughly 1-inch pieces.
- Microwave: Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water. Microwave on high for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
- Mash: Drain any excess water and mash the potatoes with milk or cream, butter, salt, and pepper. Adjust the amount of liquid to achieve your desired consistency.
Troubleshooting
- Potato not cooked through: Microwave for longer intervals, checking for doneness frequently.
- Potato too dry: Add a tablespoon or two of water before microwaving.
- Potato too soggy: Reduce the amount of water or microwave on a lower power setting.
With these simple methods, you can enjoy perfectly cooked potatoes anytime, without the hassle of traditional cooking methods. Experiment with different potatoes and seasonings to discover your favorite microwave potato recipes!
