How long to microwave new potatoes
Do you love new potatoes but hate the long wait time for them to cook in the oven or on the stovetop? Look no further than your trusty microwave to quickly cook up a delicious batch of new potatoes. Using the microwave not only saves you time, but also helps to retain the nutrients in the potatoes, making them a healthier option.
Microwaving new potatoes is a simple and convenient way to prepare them. All you need is a microwave-safe dish, some potatoes, and a few minutes of your time. The process is so easy that you’ll be enjoying perfectly cooked new potatoes in no time. Plus, there’s no need to worry about overcooking or undercooking them, as microwaving allows for precise control over cooking time.
The cooking time for new potatoes in the microwave can vary depending on their size and the power of your microwave. Generally, it takes about 5-7 minutes to cook small new potatoes and 7-9 minutes for larger ones. However, it’s always a good idea to start with a shorter cooking time and check for doneness using a fork or a knife. If the potatoes are still firm, continue microwaving them in 1-minute increments until they are tender.
Simple steps for microwaving new potatoes
Microwaving new potatoes is a quick and easy way to cook these tasty vegetables. Follow these simple steps to get perfectly cooked new potatoes every time.
- Start by washing the new potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a scrub brush if necessary.
- Using a fork, puncture each potato a few times. This will help the potatoes cook evenly and prevent them from bursting.
- Next, place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish. Make sure to leave enough space between each potato for proper cooking.
- Add a tablespoon of water to the dish, along with a pinch of salt if desired. This will help create steam, which will help cook the potatoes.
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Make sure to leave a vent for the steam to escape.
- Microwave the potatoes on high for 4-5 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the potatoes and the wattage of your microwave.
- After the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and check the potatoes for doneness. They should be fork-tender.
- If the potatoes are not fully cooked, return them to the microwave and cook them in 1-minute increments until they are done.
- Once the potatoes are cooked to your liking, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They will be hot!
- Enjoy your perfectly cooked new potatoes as a side dish or use them in your favorite recipes.
Now you know the simple steps to microwave new potatoes. Give this cooking method a try and enjoy the convenience of microwaving!
Proper preparations for microwaving new potatoes
If you want to enjoy perfectly cooked new potatoes in no time, microwaving is a convenient method. However, proper preparations are crucial to ensure they turn out tender and full of flavor. Below are the necessary steps to take:
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Step 1: |
Choose the right type of new potatoes. Look for small, firm potatoes with smooth skin. Varieties such as Charlotte or Baby Jewels work well. |
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Step 2: |
Wash the new potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities. |
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Step 3: |
Pierce each potato multiple times with a fork to allow steam to escape during the cooking process. |
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Step 4: |
Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish with a lid or cover them with a microwave-safe plastic wrap. |
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Step 5: |
It is recommended to add a small amount of water to the dish to create steam and help cook the potatoes more evenly. |
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Step 6: |
Place the covered dish with the potatoes in the microwave. |
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Step 7: |
Set the microwave to high power and cook the potatoes for approximately 5-7 minutes per 200 grams of potatoes. |
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Step 8: |
After cooking, let the potatoes stand for a few minutes to continue cooking and soften. |
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Step 9: |
Taste one potato to check for doneness. If they are not cooked to your desired tenderness, you can continue microwaving them in short increments of 1 minute at a time until done. |
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Step 10: |
Carefully remove the potatoes from the microwave, as they will be hot. Give them a gentle stir or shake to distribute the heat evenly. |
By following these proper preparations, you can achieve perfectly cooked new potatoes that are ready to be enjoyed as a delicious side dish or as an excellent addition to any recipe.
Adjusting Cooking Time Based on Potato Size
Microwaving new potatoes is a convenient and quick way to cook them, but it’s important to adjust the cooking time based on the size of the potatoes for the best results. Here’s a guide on how to do that:
Small-Sized Potatoes
If your new potatoes are small in size, they will cook quicker compared to larger ones. It is generally recommended to microwave small new potatoes for about 4-6 minutes on high heat. Remember to poke them with a fork a few times to allow the steam to escape.
Medium-Sized Potatoes
For medium-sized new potatoes, you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Microwave them for approximately 6-8 minutes on high heat, making sure to poke them with a fork before cooking. This will ensure that they cook evenly and become tender inside.
Large-Sized Potatoes
When cooking large new potatoes in the microwave, it’s crucial to give them enough time to cook through. You should microwave them for about 8-10 minutes on high heat. As always, be sure to poke each potato with a fork before cooking to prevent any pressure buildup.
Keep in mind that microwaves may vary in power, so these cooking times are just estimates. To determine if your new potatoes are fully cooked, you can simply check their tenderness with a fork. If they are still slightly firm, you can continue microwaving them for an additional minute or two.
This method of microwaving new potatoes ensures that they retain their natural flavor and nutrient content while offering a faster cooking option. So go ahead and experiment with different sizes and cooking times to find the perfect balance for your desired taste and texture.
Tips for seasoning and adding flavor to microwaved new potatoes
While microwaving new potatoes is a quick and convenient way to cook them, they may lack some of the flavor that you would achieve by roasting or boiling them. However, there are several ways to enhance the taste of microwaved new potatoes:
| Seasoning | Method |
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| Butter and Herbs | Add a pat of butter to the hot potatoes and sprinkle them with your favorite fresh or dried herbs, such as parsley, dill, or rosemary. |
| Garlic and Parmesan | Mince some garlic and toss it with the microwaved potatoes. Finish off with grated Parmesan cheese for a flavorful combination. |
| Olive Oil and Lemon | Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice over the potatoes. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. |
| Sour Cream and Chives | Top the microwaved new potatoes with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with freshly chopped chives for a creamy and tangy flavor. |
| Spicy Cajun Seasoning | Add a kick to your microwaved new potatoes by dusting them with Cajun seasoning or a spicy blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and dried herbs. |
Experiment with different combinations of seasonings to find your favorite flavor profile for microwaved new potatoes. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add other ingredients like bacon bits, grated cheese, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze depending on your taste preferences. Enjoy!
Serving ideas and suggestions for microwaved new potatoes
Once your new potatoes are perfectly cooked in the microwave, it’s time to think about how you want to serve them. They are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of ingredients to create delicious meals or snacks.
1. Garlic and herb roasted potatoes: After microwaving, transfer the potatoes to a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil, minced garlic, and your favorite herbs, such as rosemary or thyme. Roast in the oven until they are golden brown and crispy.
2. Creamy mashed potatoes: Mash the microwaved potatoes with butter, milk, and a touch of salt and pepper. For extra creaminess, add some sour cream or Greek yogurt. Serve as a side dish with your favorite meat or as a comfort food on its own.
3. Potato salad: Let the microwaved potatoes cool down, then cut them into bite-sized cubes. Toss them with mayonnaise, mustard, diced onions, and chopped herbs, such as chives or parsley. Season with salt and pepper. This classic dish is perfect for picnics or summer barbecues.
4. Pan-fried potatoes: Heat some oil in a skillet and add the microwaved potatoes, along with onions, garlic, and your favorite spices or herbs. Fry until crispy and golden brown. This is a tasty and simple side dish that goes well with any main course.
5. Smashed potatoes: Gently press each microwaved potato with the back of a fork until it slightly flattens. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast in the oven until crispy. Serve as a side dish or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Remember, these are just a few suggestions to get you started. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique dishes using your microwaved new potatoes.
Harrison Clayton
Meet Harrison Clayton, a distinguished author and home remodeling enthusiast whose expertise in the realm of renovation is second to none. With a passion for transforming houses into inviting homes, Harrison's writing at https://thehuts-eastbourne.co.uk/ brings a breath of fresh inspiration to the world of home improvement. Whether you're looking to revamp a small corner of your abode or embark on a complete home transformation, Harrison's articles provide the essential expertise and creative flair to turn your visions into reality. So, dive into the captivating world of home remodeling with Harrison Clayton and unlock the full potential of your living space with every word he writes.
