How to Microwave a Baked Potato
User Reviews
5
How to Microwave a Baked Potato
Description
The technique begins by washing the potato thoroughly and puncturing it multiple times with a fork to allow steam release during cooking. A damp paper towel is wrapped around the potato to maintain moisture and promote even cooking in the microwave. The potato is microwaved for 4 minutes, turned, then microwaved for another 3 minutes, followed by a 1-minute resting period inside the microwave. Testing the potato by gently squeezing it with a towel confirms doneness; firm potatoes require extra 1-minute intervals of cooking. The result is a tender potato with soft flesh ready for slicing or topping. For crispy skin, finishing under a broiler with melted butter brushed on the skin can add texture. Adjust cooking times for potatoes smaller or larger than 4 to 5 inches, and multiple potatoes can be cooked simultaneously with timing guidance.
Ingredients
- 1 4-5 inch russet potato Idaho or Baking Potato) about ½ - 1 lb, long
- 4 Tbs water
Instructions
- Wash the potato well to remove any dirt and debris.
- Using a fork, poke holes in the potato with the fork tines 3-4 times on one side and then again on the other side.
- Wet the paper towel with the water and squeeze out any extra water. Wrap the damp paper towel around the potato.
- Place the potato in the microwave and heat for 4 minutes. Turn the potato and heat again for 3 minutes. Allow hot potato to sit in the microwave for 1 minute and rest.
- With a towel between your hand and the potato, give the potato a squeeze. If the sides give easily then the potato is done. If the potato remains hard to the squeeze, microwave in 1 minute bursts until the potato gives easily.
Notes
- Use a fork tine edge to slit the top of the finished potato for a fluffy interior without crushing it.
- Microwave times vary; adjust according to your microwave's strength and potato size.
- Small potatoes require less cooking time; large potatoes require more.
- Multiple potatoes can be microwaved at once; consult a timing chart if needed.
- To crisp the skin, brush with melted butter and broil for 3-5 minutes at high heat.
- Start toppings simply with butter, salt, and pepper before adding others.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 1serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 358 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 358kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 82g | 27% |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Fat | 1g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 26mg | 1% |
| Potassium | 1891mg | 40% |
| Fiber | 6g | 24% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin C | 26mg | 29% |
| Calcium | 59mg | 6% |
| Iron | 4mg | 22% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
You'll Also Love
