do you know How to boil potatoes in the microwave? Imagine you come home from a long day at work, and you crave a comforting, warm bowl of Aloo Jeera (cumin potatoes) or perhaps a hearty Aloo Gobi (potatoes and cauliflower).
You grab a few of those earthy, round potatoes from your pantry, but then it strikes you! You forgot to refill your gas cylinder and your stove is as good as a decorative piece right now. But wait, don’t worry. Your trustworthy microwave is here to the rescue!
Yes, you read it right! You can actually boil potatoes in the microwave. It’s quick, it’s easy and it’s the perfect solution for those days when you just can’t use the stove or simply need to save some time.
How to boil potatoes in the microwave
Watch in awe as I guide you on how to transform those humble potatoes into soft, steamy, and perfectly cooked delights, all in the comfort of your microwave. So, let’s jump right into it!
Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under running water. Use a clean brush to scrub away any dirt or grit stuck on the skin. Potatoes grow underground, so they tend to carry a bit of the field with them. Remember, cleanliness is next to godliness, even in cooking!
Once your potatoes are squeaky clean, use a fork to prick them a few times. This creates tiny vents that allow steam to escape during cooking, preventing any microwave mishaps. Plus, it also helps in cooking the potatoes evenly from the inside out.
Now, place these prepared potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl. Ensure that the bowl is large enough to accommodate all your potatoes without overcrowding. If needed, cook in batches. But remember, we want them to boil, not steam!
Step 2: The Microwave Magic
With the potatoes nestled in the bowl, add about half a cup of water. This is the key to achieving that boiled texture we’re after. Microwaving potatoes without water could lead to dry, unevenly cooked potatoes. Worse, they could explode, and trust me, cleaning a microwave after a potato explosion is not a task you’d enjoy!
Time to let the microwave do its magic! Set the microwave on high and let it run for five minutes. Once the timer rings, carefully turn over the potatoes, and microwave them for another five minutes. Always use microwave-safe gloves or a cloth to handle hot dishes. Safety first, taste second!
At the end of ten minutes, your potatoes should be fork-tender. If not, don’t worry! Each microwave is unique, just like ours. So, continue microwaving in one-minute increments until they’re cooked through. But remember, don’t go overboard. We don’t want mashed potatoes, not today at least!
Step 3: The Finale of boiling potatoes in the microwave
Once your potatoes are beautifully cooked and your kitchen is filled with a warm, earthy aroma, let them rest for a while. They’ve been through a lot! Letting them cool slightly makes them easier to handle and peel. Thoughtful, isn’t it?
Now, peel away the skin, or leave it on if you prefer, and transform these boiled potatoes into any dish of your choice. Maybe that Aloo Jeera or Aloo Gobi you were craving?
Boiling potatoes in the microwave might seem unconventional, but it’s simple, quick, and super convenient. So, the next time you’re in a rush or your stove decides to take a day off, you know what to do. Happy cooking!
