Cooking a sweet potato in the microwave is a fast and easy way to make a delicious side dish or snack. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A and are packed with many other nutrients and minerals. Plus, the microwave will save you time in the kitchen! Here’s how to microwave a sweet potato.
Gather the Supplies
Before you begin, you’ll need a few supplies. Most importantly, you’ll need a sweet potato. Look for one that is firm and free of blemishes or wrinkles. You’ll also need a microwave-safe dish or plate, some cooking oil (optional), a fork, and a knife.
Prepare the Sweet Potato
Wash the sweet potato with cool water and dry it with a paper towel. If you like, you can rub some cooking oil on the outside of the sweet potato. This will help it to crisp up a bit in the microwave. Use a fork or knife to puncture the sweet potato a few times. This will help it to vent steam during the cooking process.
Cook the Sweet Potato
Place the sweet potato on the microwave-safe dish or plate. Cook it on high power for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, check the potato to see if it’s done. If it needs more time, cook it for 3-minute intervals until it’s soft and cooked through. Depending on the size of the sweet potato, it can take anywhere from 5-10 minutes to cook.
Let it Cool
Let the sweet potato cool for a few minutes before you try to handle it. The skin will be hot, so be sure to use a kitchen towel or oven mitts to protect your hands. Once it’s cooled down, you can cut it open and enjoy it.
Flavor Ideas
Once it’s cooked, you can enjoy your sweet potato as is, or you can add some extra flavor. Some popular topping ideas include butter, cinnamon, honey, brown sugar, and nuts. You can also add some savory toppings, like garlic powder, chili powder, bacon bits, or cheddar cheese.
Leftovers
If you have leftover cooked sweet potatoes, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion
Cooking a sweet potato in the microwave is a fast and flavorful way to make a delicious side dish or snack. All you need is a sweet potato, a microwave-safe dish or plate, some cooking oil (optional), a fork, and a knife. With just a few minutes of cooking time and some creative toppings, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s full of vitamins and minerals.
