How to cook new potatoes in microwave
If you’re looking for a quick and convenient way to cook new potatoes, using a microwave is a great option. Whether you’re in a hurry or just want to cook a small batch of potatoes, the microwave can come to your rescue. This method is not only efficient but also ensures that the potatoes retain their natural flavor and nutrients.
To start, you’ll need to select the right kind of new potatoes. Look for small, firm potatoes with smooth skin. New potatoes are young and tender, making them perfect for quick cooking methods like microwaving. Once you have your potatoes, give them a good wash and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Next, place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and season them to your liking. You can keep it simple with just a sprinkle of salt and pepper, or get creative with herbs and spices. Experiment with flavors like rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, or paprika to enhance the taste of your potatoes. Don’t forget to drizzle them with a little bit of olive oil or melted butter to add a touch of richness.
How to Cook New Potatoes in Microwave
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook new potatoes, look no further than your microwave. With just a few simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked, tender new potatoes in minutes. Here’s how:
1. Choose Your Potatoes
First, choose fresh new potatoes that are similar in size. This will ensure that the potatoes cook evenly in the microwave. Rinse the potatoes under cold water and scrub off any dirt or debris.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
Next, use a fork or a small knife to pierce each potato several times. This will prevent the potatoes from bursting while they cook in the microwave. Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and add a small amount of water.
3. Cook in the Microwave
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave the potatoes on high for 5 minutes. After the 5 minutes, remove the cover and pierce one of the potatoes with a fork to check for tenderness. If the potatoes are not yet fully cooked, return them to the microwave and cook in 1-minute increments until they reach your desired tenderness.
– Tip: The cooking time may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the size of the potatoes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
4. Season and Serve
Once the new potatoes are cooked to your liking, carefully remove them from the microwave. Drain any excess water and season the potatoes with your favorite herbs, spices or toppings. Consider adding salt, pepper, butter, or fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
– Note: New potatoes are delicious on their own, but they also make a great addition to many recipes, such as potato salads, roasted dishes, or served as a side to a main course.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked new potatoes straight from the microwave. This quick and easy method is perfect for a busy day or when you’re simply looking for a hassle-free way to cook these delicious potatoes.
Choose the Right Potatoes
Before you start cooking new potatoes in the microwave, it’s important to choose the right potatoes. The right choice of potatoes can make a significant difference in the taste and texture of your dish.
1. Consider the Varieties
There are various types of potatoes available in the market, and each variety has its own unique characteristics. Some varieties are better suited for boiling or baking, while others are great for roasting or frying. When cooking new potatoes in the microwave, it’s best to choose a waxy variety, such as Charlotte or Red Bliss. Waxy potatoes have a dense and moist texture, which helps them retain their shape and firmness when cooked quickly in the microwave.
2. Look for Freshness
When purchasing new potatoes, it’s important to choose fresh potatoes. Fresh potatoes will have smooth skins without any wrinkling or sprouting. Avoid potatoes with green skin or green patches, as this indicates the presence of solanine, a toxic compound. Fresh potatoes will have a firm, slightly waxy texture, which is ideal for microwaving.
Additionally, consider the overall appearance of the potatoes. Look for potatoes that are free from cuts, bruises, or blemishes. These imperfections can affect the taste and texture of the potatoes when cooked in the microwave.
3. Size Matters
The size of the potatoes is another important consideration. Aim for smaller-sized new potatoes, as they tend to cook more evenly in the microwave. Smaller potatoes are also easier to handle and serve, especially if you’re planning to cook them whole.
However, if you’re using larger new potatoes, make sure to cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking in the microwave.
By choosing the right potatoes for microwaving, you’ll ensure that your new potatoes turn out perfectly cooked, tender, and full of flavour.
Wash the Potatoes Thoroughly
The first step in cooking new potatoes in the microwave is to wash them thoroughly. This is an important step to remove any dirt or debris from the potatoes’ surface. Start by running the potatoes under cold water, scrubbing them gently with a brush to remove any stubborn dirt.
Make sure to wash all sides of the potatoes, paying special attention to the nooks and crevices where dirt can be trapped. Once washed, pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
By properly washing the potatoes, you ensure that they are clean and ready to be cooked. This step is essential for maintaining the freshness and flavor of the potatoes as well.
Prick the Potatoes with a Fork
Pricking the potatoes with a fork before cooking them in the microwave is an important step to ensure they cook evenly and prevent them from bursting. Here’s how to do it:
- Take each new potato and wash it thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Place the potato on a clean, dry surface and hold it firmly with one hand.
- Use a fork to prick the potato skin all over. Make sure to prick it a few times on each side.
- This will allow steam to escape from the potatoes as they cook, preventing them from bursting and making them cook faster.
- Repeat this process for all the new potatoes you plan to cook in the microwave.
Pricking the potatoes with a fork is a simple yet essential step in cooking new potatoes in the microwave. Follow these instructions to ensure perfectly cooked potatoes every time.
Place Potatoes in a Microwave-Safe Dish
To begin cooking your new potatoes in the microwave, you will need a microwave-safe dish. This can be a glass or ceramic dish that is large enough to hold all of your potatoes.
First, wash the new potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, pat them dry with a clean towel.
Next, place the potatoes in the microwave-safe dish in a single layer. This will ensure that they cook evenly.
If you are cooking a large number of potatoes, you may need to cook them in batches or use multiple dishes.
Once the potatoes are in the dish, you can choose to season them with your preferred spices or herbs. Some popular options include garlic powder, rosemary, or paprika.
After seasoning, cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help to trap the steam and cook the potatoes more quickly.
Now your potatoes are ready to be cooked in the microwave. Follow the next steps in the cooking process to enjoy delicious and tender new potatoes in no time!
Cook the Potatoes in the Microwave
To cook new potatoes in the microwave, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: |
First, clean the new potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. |
Step 2: |
Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish, arranging them in a single layer. |
Step 3: |
Add a tablespoon of water to the dish to help create steam and prevent the potatoes from drying out. |
Step 4: |
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent to allow steam to escape. |
Step 5: |
Microwave the potatoes on high for about 6-8 minutes or until they are tender. |
Step 6: |
After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and let the potatoes sit for a couple of minutes before serving. |
By following these easy steps, you can quickly and effortlessly cook delicious new potatoes in the microwave.
Check for Doneness and Serve
Once the new potatoes have finished cooking in the microwave, it is important to check for doneness before serving. To do this, carefully remove one potato from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel, as it will be hot. With a fork, gently press into the potato. If the fork easily slides in and out of the potato, it is done cooking. If there is resistance or the potato is still firm, it may need additional cooking time.
If the new potatoes are not done, place them back in the microwave and continue cooking for an additional minute or two. Repeat the fork test to check for doneness again. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size of the new potatoes and the wattage of your microwave, so it’s best to keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Once the new potatoes are cooked to your desired level of tenderness, carefully transfer them to a serving dish using oven mitts or a spoon. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of salt and pepper, if desired. New potatoes can be served as a side dish or used in recipes such as salads, stews, or roasted dishes. Enjoy!