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How to boil potatoes in microwave 

  • 2 min read

To boil potatoes in a microwave, prick them with a fork, put them in a microwave-safe dish, add water, cover, and microwave on high for 5-6 minutes per potato.

The Convenience of the Microwave

In today’s fast-paced world, anything that saves time without compromising taste is a winner, and boiling potatoes in a microwave is one such hack. This method is not only quick but also conserves the nutritional value of the potatoes, as less of the nutrients are lost to the cooking water compared to traditional boiling.

Steps to Microwave Boiling Potatoes

Here are the simple steps to boil potatoes in a microwave:

  1. Choose Your Potatoes: Any variety of potato can be microwaved. However, waxy varieties like red or new potatoes hold their shape better than starchy ones like Russets, which are better suited for fluffy mashed potatoes.
  2. Prep the Potatoes: Wash your potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can peel them if you like, but leaving the skins on preserves nutrients and adds texture. Next, prick each potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape and prevents the potatoes from bursting.
  3. Arrange in a Microwave-Safe Dish: Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish. It’s best to cook similar-sized potatoes together for even cooking.
  4. Add Water: Add about 1/2 inch of water to the dish. This creates a steaming effect that helps cook the potatoes.
  5. Cover and Cook: Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plate. Avoid using plastic wrap as it can melt or warp. Microwave on high for 5-6 minutes per potato. If cooking multiple potatoes, rotate them halfway through for even cooking.

Checking for Doneness and Serving

Check for doneness by piercing a potato with a fork. If the fork goes in easily, the potatoes are done. Be careful when removing the dish from the microwave—it will be hot! Let the potatoes cool for a few minutes, then enjoy them as is or incorporate them into your favorite recipes.

By boiling potatoes in the microwave, you’ll have a quick and versatile ingredient ready in no time. Happy microwaving!

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