Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and flavorful vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One of the quickest and easiest methods is to cook them in the microwave. In this article, we will explain how to cook sweet potato in the microwave and provide some tips to make sure they are cooked to perfection.
How to Cook Sweet Potato in Microwave
Step 1: Clean the sweet potato
Wash the sweet potato thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a scrub brush to clean it properly.
Step 2: Prick it with a fork
Using a fork, prick the sweet potato a few times on all sides. This will allow steam to escape during cooking and prevent it from exploding in the microwave.
Step 3: Microwave on high
Place the sweet potato on a microwave-safe plate and microwave it on high for 5-6 minutes. Flip it over and microwave for another 5-6 minutes if needed until the sweet potato is tender and the skin is wrinkled.
Step 4: Check for doneness
To check for doneness, gently press the sweet potato with a fork or your finger. It should be soft and tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Let it cool down
Let the sweet potato cool down for a few minutes before handling it. Use a sharp knife to cut it open and scoop out the flesh.
Tips for cooking sweet potato in the microwave
– Choose a sweet potato that is uniform in shape and size for even cooking.
– Prick the sweet potato with a fork to prevent it from exploding in the microwave.
– Microwave the sweet potato on high for 5-6 minutes. Flip it over and microwave for another 5-6 minutes if needed until the sweet potato is tender and the skin is wrinkled.
– Let it cool down before handling it and cutting it open.
– Add toppings such as butter, cinnamon, or brown sugar for extra flavor.
FAQs about cooking sweet potato in the microwave
Q: How long does it take to cook a sweet potato in the microwave?
A: Microwave on high for 5-6 minutes. Flip it over and microwave for another 5-6 minutes if needed until the sweet potato is tender and the skin is wrinkled.
Q: Can I cook sweet potato in the microwave without pricking it?
A: No, it is important to prick the sweet potato with a fork to prevent it from exploding in the microwave.
Q: Should I wrap the sweet potato in a paper towel before microwaving it?
A: It is not necessary to wrap the sweet potato in a paper towel, but it can help to keep the moisture inside and prevent it from drying out.
Q: Can I cook multiple sweet potatoes in the microwave at once?
A: Yes, you can cook multiple sweet potatoes in the microwave at once. Just make sure they are of similar size and microwave for a longer amount of time.
Q: Can I eat the skin of a microwaved sweet potato?
A: Yes, you can eat the skin of a microwaved sweet potato. It is nutritious and packed with fiber. Just make sure to clean it properly before cooking.
In conclusion, cooking sweet potato in the microwave is a quick and easy way to enjoy this nutritious and delicious vegetable. By following the steps outlined above and using these tips, you can cook sweet potato in the microwave to perfection. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings for an extra burst of flavor.
