Olivia Carter
New potatoes are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including in the microwave oven. Cooking new potatoes in the microwave is a quick and convenient method that allows you to have tender and flavorful spuds in just a fraction of the time it takes to cook them on the stove. Whether you’re looking to save time or simply want to try a different cooking method, microwaving new potatoes is a great option.
Cooking new potatoes in the microwave is a simple process that requires only a few basic ingredients and tools. All you need is a microwave-safe dish, some new potatoes, a bit of water, and your favorite seasonings. By following a few easy steps, you can have perfectly cooked new potatoes that are ready to be enjoyed as a side dish or incorporated into your favorite recipes.
One of the biggest advantages of cooking new potatoes in the microwave is the time it saves. While boiling or roasting potatoes can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, microwaving them can be done in as little as 10 minutes. This is especially helpful when you’re in a hurry or need to make a last-minute meal. Additionally, microwaving new potatoes retains more of their natural flavor and nutrients compared to other cooking methods.
So, if you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious way to cook new potatoes, look no further than your microwave oven. With just a few minutes of prep and cook time, you can enjoy tender, flavorful spuds that are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, adding them to salads, or using them as a base for other recipes, microwaved new potatoes are sure to impress your family and friends.
Methods for cooking new potatoes in a microwave oven
Cooking new potatoes in a microwave oven can be a quick and convenient way to enjoy this delicious side dish. There are several methods you can try, each with its own advantages and delicious results.
Method 1: Steaming
Steaming new potatoes in the microwave is a healthy way to cook them, as it helps to retain their natural flavors and nutrients. Here’s how to do it:
- Wash the new potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry.
- Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and add a small amount of water.
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
- Microwave the potatoes on high power for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the dish from the microwave and let the potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving.
Method 2: Roasting
Roasting new potatoes in the microwave can give them a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Follow these steps to achieve delicious roasted potatoes:
- Wash and dry the new potatoes, then cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the potato pieces in a microwave-safe dish and drizzle them with olive oil.
- Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs and spices.
- Microwave the potatoes on high power for 5-6 minutes, stirring them halfway through the cooking time.
- Once the potatoes are tender and golden brown, remove them from the microwave and let them cool for a few minutes.
By using these methods, you can easily cook new potatoes in a microwave oven. Whether you prefer steamed or roasted potatoes, the microwave offers a convenient way to enjoy this classic side dish in no time.
Boiling new potatoes in a microwave oven
If you prefer the taste and texture of boiled potatoes but don’t have the time or resources to use the stovetop method, you can still enjoy this classic dish by boiling new potatoes in a microwave oven. This quick and convenient method will save you time and still allow you to enjoy the deliciousness of perfectly cooked new potatoes.
Ingredients:
- New potatoes
- Water
- Salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Wash the new potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Place the clean new potatoes in a microwave-safe dish.
- Add enough water to the dish to cover the potatoes.
- If desired, add salt to enhance the flavor of the potatoes.
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap.
- Microwave the potatoes on high power for about 5-7 minutes per potato, depending on the size.
- After each interval, check the potatoes for doneness by piercing them with a fork. They should be tender and easily pierced.
- If the potatoes are not yet fully cooked, continue microwaving them in one-minute intervals until they reach the desired tenderness.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully remove the dish from the microwave. Be cautious as the dish may be hot.
- Let the potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow them to cool slightly and become easier to handle.
After following these simple instructions, you will have perfectly boiled new potatoes that are ready to be enjoyed as a side dish or incorporated into your favorite recipes. Whether you’re in a hurry or simply prefer the convenience of using a microwave oven, this method is a great way to quickly cook new potatoes without sacrificing taste or quality.
Steaming new potatoes in a microwave oven
Steaming new potatoes in a microwave oven is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this delicious side dish. By using the microwave, you can cut down on cooking time while still achieving tender and flavorful potatoes.
To start, choose small, new potatoes for steaming. These potatoes are young and have a thin skin, making them easy to cook and enjoy. Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
Next, place the clean potatoes in a microwave-safe dish. Add a small amount of water to the dish, about 2 tablespoons, to create steam. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap.
Set the microwave on high power and cook the potatoes for about 5 minutes. After the 5 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and check the potatoes for doneness. They should be fork-tender and easily pierced.
If the potatoes are not done, return them to the microwave and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, checking for doneness after each interval. Be cautious when handling the dish, as it will be hot.
Once the potatoes are fully cooked, carefully remove them from the microwave and let them cool slightly before serving. You can choose to enjoy them as is, or you can add toppings like butter, salt, and pepper for extra flavor.
Additional Tips:
– For extra flavor, you can add herbs and spices to the water before steaming the potatoes.
– If you prefer softer potatoes, you can increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
– Be sure to use oven mitts or kitchen towels to handle the hot dish when removing it from the microwave.
Roasting new potatoes in a microwave oven
Roasting new potatoes in a microwave oven is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this delicious side dish. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a tasty addition to your next barbecue, this method is sure to satisfy your cravings.
What you’ll need:
– New potatoes
– Olive oil or melted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Wash the new potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish and drizzle them with olive oil or melted butter. Use enough to coat each potato evenly.
3. Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you desire. Toss them gently to ensure that the seasonings are evenly distributed.
4. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plate. This will help to trap the steam and cook the potatoes more evenly.
5. Microwave the potatoes on high for 5 minutes.
6. Carefully remove the dish from the microwave and give the potatoes a gentle stir. They should be starting to brown and become crispy on the outside.
7. Continue microwaving the potatoes in 2-minute intervals, stirring after each interval, until they are tender and golden brown. This will take about 8-12 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes.
8. Once the potatoes are cooked to your liking, remove them from the microwave and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow them to cool slightly and become even crispier.
Enjoy your roasted new potatoes straight from the microwave oven as a delicious side dish or as a tasty addition to salads, sandwiches, or wraps. They are versatile, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make!
Baking new potatoes in a microwave oven
If you want to enjoy the taste and texture of baked new potatoes but don’t have access to an oven, you can easily prepare them in a microwave oven. Although microwaving may not produce the exact same results as traditional baking, it can still yield delicious and tender potatoes in a fraction of the time.
Here is a simple method for baking new potatoes in a microwave oven:
- Start by washing the new potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Next, use a fork or a small knife to prick each potato a few times. This will allow steam to escape during cooking and prevent them from bursting.
- Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish or plate in a single layer, making sure to leave some space between them.
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Leave a small vent or opening to allow steam to escape.
- Microwave the potatoes on high power for about 5 minutes, then carefully remove the dish from the microwave and give the potatoes a gentle stir or flip them over. This will help promote even cooking.
- Return the dish to the microwave and continue cooking on high power for another 4-6 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, let them rest in the microwave for a few minutes to finish cooking and allow the steam to escape.
- Finally, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and uncover the potatoes. They are now ready to serve!
When baking new potatoes in a microwave oven, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the size of the potatoes. It’s always a good idea to start with a shorter cooking time and adjust as needed.
Remember to use caution when handling the hot dish and potatoes, as they can be very hot. Use oven mitts or a kitchen towel to protect your hands.
Enjoy your perfectly baked new potatoes straight from the microwave – a quick and convenient way to satisfy your craving for a delicious side dish!
Microwaving new potatoes with different seasonings and herbs
Microwaving new potatoes with different seasonings and herbs is a great way to add flavor and variety to your meal. Here are a few delicious combinations to try:
1. Garlic and rosemary: Toss the new potatoes with minced garlic, fresh rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Microwave on high for about 6-8 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. The garlic and rosemary will infuse the potatoes with a savory aroma and taste.
2. Lemon and dill: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the new potatoes and sprinkle them with fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for the steam to escape. Microwave on high for about 5-7 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked through. The lemon and dill will give the potatoes a refreshing and tangy flavor.
3. Parmesan and thyme: Grate Parmesan cheese over the new potatoes and sprinkle them with fresh thyme leaves, salt, and pepper. Toss the potatoes to coat them evenly. Microwave on high for about 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the potatoes are tender. The combination of Parmesan and thyme will create a rich and aromatic dish.
4. Paprika and parsley: Sprinkle the new potatoes with paprika, dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss to coat. Microwave on high for about 6-8 minutes or until the potatoes are golden and crisp. The paprika and parsley will add a smoky and herbaceous flavor to the potatoes.
Experiment with different seasonings and herbs to find your favorite flavor combinations for microwaving new potatoes. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of cooking potatoes in a microwave oven!
FAQ
Can I cook new potatoes in a microwave oven?
Yes, you can cook new potatoes in a microwave oven. It is a quick and convenient way to prepare them.
What is the best way to cook new potatoes in a microwave oven?
The best way to cook new potatoes in a microwave oven is to wash them thoroughly, pierce them with a fork, and place them in a microwave-safe dish with a lid. Cook them on high power for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender.
Do I need to add water when cooking new potatoes in a microwave oven?
No, you do not need to add water when cooking new potatoes in a microwave oven. The natural moisture in the potatoes is enough to steam them while they cook.
