Microwave Baked Potato: The Fastest, Easiest Way to Cook

Let's talk about baked potatoes, those humble yet versatile spuds that can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. But let’s be honest, who has the time to bake a potato in the oven for an hour? Not me! I’m all for slow cooking, but sometimes you just need a quick and easy meal, and that's where the microwave comes in.

I’m not talking about those sad, pale, supermarket "baked" potatoes, those are a travesty! I’m talking about cooking a real, honest-to-goodness potato in the microwave. It might sound strange, but trust me, it works brilliantly. The results are just as good, if not better, than the oven method, and it's a fraction of the time. Plus, it's a great way to use your microwave for something other than reheating leftovers.

So, grab a spud, grab your microwave, and let's get started. I’m going to take you step by step through the process, and by the end of this, you’ll be a microwave baked potato pro.

Part 1: choosing the right potato

The first step to achieving microwave baked potato greatness is selecting the right spud. Not all potatoes are created equal when it comes to baking. You want a starchy potato like a russet, Idaho, or maris piper. These potatoes are high in starch, which means they'll bake up fluffy and soft, perfect for scooping and topping. You’ll get that classic, fluffy texture that makes baked potatoes so irresistible.

Avoid waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as these will hold their shape too much and won't be as fluffy. They’re best for salads or other dishes where you want a bit of bite.

Don’t worry if you only have waxy potatoes on hand. You can still bake them, but they won't be as fluffy. Just be prepared for a firmer, less fluffy potato.

Part 2: Preparing the Potato

Once you've chosen your potato, it's time to prep it. This is simple: give it a good scrub to get rid of any dirt. No need to peel it! The skin adds flavor and texture, and it’s actually good for you. If you’re really concerned about the skin, you can always prick it with a fork a few times to help it steam.

Part 3: The Microwave Magic

Now comes the fun part – the actual microwaving! Pop your potato into a microwave-safe bowl or dish. I like to use a shallow bowl as it allows the potato to cook more evenly. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel. This will help to trap the steam, which will cook the potato from the inside out, creating a tender, fluffy interior.

Now, here's where things get a little bit tricky. The microwave time will vary depending on the size and type of potato you're using, and the power of your microwave. A good rule of thumb is to start with about 5-7 minutes for a medium-sized potato. You can always add more time if needed.

To give you a better idea of how long your potato might take, here is a table with estimated microwave times based on the size of the potato:

Remember, these are just estimates. Always check your potato for doneness before adding more time.

Part 4: The Power of Patience

The First Test

After the initial microwave time, it's time to check your potato. You can do this by gently pressing on it with a finger. If it feels firm, you need to cook it for a few more minutes. If it feels a bit soft, it's ready to go!

Be careful when you take the potato out of the microwave, it's going to be hot! Use oven mitts or a tea towel to handle it. Once you've taken it out, let it rest for a few minutes before you cut into it. This will allow the steam to distribute evenly, making for a fluffier potato.

The Second Test

If you're unsure if your potato is cooked through, give it another little test. Gently press down on the centre of the potato with a finger. If it gives way easily and feels soft, you're good to go. If it feels firm, pop it back in the microwave for a minute or two more.

Part 5: The Art of Toppings

Classic Choices

Now that your potato is cooked, it's time to get creative with your toppings. The possibilities are endless!

Here are some classic combinations:

1. Butter and sour cream: This is a timeless combination that's always delicious. It’s simple, creamy, and perfectly complements the fluffy potato.
2. Chili: Top your potato with a generous helping of your favorite chili for a hearty and satisfying meal. The chili adds a spicy kick and the potato provides a comforting base.
3. Cheese and bacon: Another classic combo that's hard to resist. The salty bacon and melty cheese create a flavor explosion that’s sure to please.

Going Beyond the Basics

Don't be afraid to think outside the box! Here are some other topping ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

1. Avocado and salsa: A light and refreshing option perfect for a summer meal. The creamy avocado and zesty salsa add a vibrant touch to your baked potato.
2. grilled chicken and guacamole: This is a great way to add some protein and flavor to your potato. The combination of grilled chicken, creamy guacamole, and a fluffy baked potato is a winning recipe.
3. Roasted vegetables: Top your potato with your favorite roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal. Roasted vegetables add a burst of color and flavor to your potato, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
4. Salmon and dill: A sophisticated and delicious option perfect for a special occasion. The flakey salmon and fragrant dill create a sophisticated topping that will impress your guests.
5. Greek yogurt and feta cheese: A delicious and healthy option, perfect for a light lunch or a side dish. The tangy yogurt and salty feta create a refreshing and flavorful topping that’s both delicious and healthy.
6. black bean salsa and sour cream: A flavorful and vegetarian-friendly option, perfect for a quick and easy meal. The black bean salsa adds a spicy kick and the sour cream provides a creamy contrast.

Part 6: microwave potato Masterclass

Over the years, I've learned a few tips and tricks for making the perfect microwave baked potato. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Prick the potato: This will help the steam escape and prevent the potato from exploding in the microwave. A few strategically placed pricks will ensure even cooking and prevent any unpleasant surprises.
2. Use a damp paper towel: This helps to create a moist environment, which will cook the potato more evenly. The damp paper towel creates steam that helps to cook the potato from the inside out, resulting in a fluffier potato.
3. Don't overcook: It's better to undercook a potato than to overcook it. A slightly undercooked potato can always be microwaved for a little longer, but an overcooked potato is a dry, sad potato. Always check your potato for doneness before adding more time.
4. Let it rest: Allowing the potato to rest after cooking will help it to steam evenly, making it fluffier and tastier. This step is important for achieving a perfectly fluffy potato.
5. Experiment with toppings: The beauty of baked potatoes is that they're incredibly versatile. Don't be afraid to try new toppings and find your favorites. There are so many delicious combinations to try, so get creative!

Part 7: The Unexpected Benefits

Faster Than You Think

One of the main reasons I love microwaving my potatoes is the speed. You're talking about a fraction of the time compared to oven baking. I’m often short on time during the week, so this is a lifesaver for a quick and easy dinner. Instead of waiting for an hour, you can have a perfectly cooked potato in just a few minutes!

Less Energy Use

Another perk of microwaving potatoes is that it's much more energy-efficient than using the oven. You're using less electricity, which is good for your wallet and the environment. By reducing your energy consumption, you can save money and make a positive impact on the planet.

Clean Up Made Easy

Let's be honest, no one likes cleaning up after a big meal. With microwave baked potatoes, there's very little mess to deal with. Just one bowl and a paper towel – much easier than dealing with oven racks and a dirty baking sheet! This is especially convenient for busy weeknights when you want to minimise cleanup.

Part 8: The Microwave Debate

The Critic's Perspective

Now, I know some people are skeptical about microwaving potatoes. They think it's not "real" baking. They say it won't be as fluffy or flavorful.

To those skeptics, I say: "Try it before you judge it!" I promise you won't be disappointed. You might be surprised at how delicious and fluffy a microwave baked potato can be.

The Science Behind the Scepticism

Okay, let's be fair, there is some truth to the skeptics' concerns. Microwaves cook food by using electromagnetic radiation, which heats the water molecules in the food. This can lead to uneven cooking, particularly if you don't use a damp paper towel to help trap the steam. However, with a little bit of care and attention, you can easily avoid these issues.

The Truth About Texture

As for the texture, it really comes down to the potato you choose. If you use a starchy potato and follow my tips, you'll get a potato that's just as fluffy and delicious as one baked in the oven. The key is to ensure the potato cooks evenly, and this can be achieved by using a damp paper towel and pricking the potato to allow steam to escape.

Part 9: The Ultimate Test

To prove my point, I decided to do a little experiment. I cooked two potatoes, one in the oven and one in the microwave, using the same type of potato and toppings. I then had a group of friends taste both potatoes and tell me which one they preferred.

The Verdict

The results were pretty surprising. Most people couldn't tell the difference! Some even preferred the microwave baked potato because it was slightly more moist and fluffy. I was blown away. It really goes to show that microwaving potatoes isn't just a quick and easy solution – it's a genuinely good way to cook them.

Part 10: The Microwave Potato Revolution

So, there you have it. Microwaving potatoes is a game-changer. It's a fast, easy, and energy-efficient way to cook a delicious and versatile meal. Forget the oven, embrace the microwave! You might just be surprised at how good it tastes.

FAQs

Q1: Can I microwave a whole potato?

Yes, you can absolutely microwave a whole potato. In fact, it's the best way to get a perfectly cooked potato. Just make sure to prick the potato with a fork a few times to allow the steam to escape. You can also wrap the potato in a damp paper towel to help it cook more evenly.

Q2: How do I know when my potato is cooked?

A cooked potato will feel soft to the touch when you press on it. You can also check by gently inserting a fork into the potato. If it goes in easily, the potato is cooked.

Q3: What are some other ways to use microwave baked potatoes?

Besides the traditional topping options, microwave baked potatoes can be used in a variety of dishes. You can chop them up and add them to soups, stews, salads, and even tacos. They are also great for making potato skins or potato salad.

Q4: Can I store leftover microwave baked potatoes?

Yes, you can store leftover baked potatoes in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave them until heated through.

Q5: What if my potato explodes in the microwave?

Don't worry, it's not that common! If your potato does explode, it's probably because you didn't prick it with a fork to allow the steam to escape. Make sure to do that next time, and you'll be good to go.