How to Cook Potatoes in the Microwave Cubed: Quick and Easy Tips for Perfect Results

ByMelissa Smith Updated

How to Cook Potatoes in the Microwave Cubed?

To cook potatoes in the microwave cubed, start by washing and slicing them into cubes.

Place the cubes in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for five minutes.

Then, flip them over and microwave for another five minutes.

Adding olive oil or butter and seasonings is optional.

Cubing the potatoes allows moisture to escape, resulting in a similar texture to frying with less fat.

However, mashed potatoes are not recommended with this method.

Once cooked, you can use the cubes in various recipes such as Sweet Potato Salad or Tasty Sweet Potato Puff.

Key Points:

  • Wash and slice potatoes into cubes
  • Microwave potatoes on high for 5 minutes
  • Flip potatoes and microwave for another 5 minutes
  • Optional: add olive oil or butter and seasonings
  • Cubing the potatoes allows moisture to escape for healthier cooking
  • Not recommended for mashed potatoes

Did You Know?

1. Did you know that microwaving potatoes can actually retain more nutrients compared to other cooking methods? Studies have shown that microwaving potatoes conserves more vitamin C and preserves their natural color and texture.

2. Potatoes provide an excellent source of potassium, but did you know that microwaving them with the skin on can increase their potassium content up to 20%? This is because potassium is highly concentrated in the potato’s skin, and microwaving helps to maximize its release.

3. Looking for a quick and easy way to cook cubed potatoes in the microwave? Try this little-known trick: after cubing the potatoes, place them in a microwave-safe bowl, sprinkle some water, cover with a microwave-safe plate, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway. They’ll turn out tender and delicious!

4. Potatoes can surprisingly be used beyond just cooking. In ancient times, people believed that if you placed a raw potato under your pillow while sleeping, it could cure headaches and migraines. While there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim, it’s still an interesting historical tidbit.

5. If you love the convenience of cooking cubed potatoes in the microwave, here’s another fascinating fact: the world’s largest potato weighed 18 pounds and 4 ounces! It was grown in the UK in 1795, and you can only imagine how many microwave recipes you could make with that massive spud.

1. Time-Saving Method: Microwaving Diced Potatoes in Minutes

Microwaving diced potatoes is a fantastic time-saving method when compared to using traditional cooking methods such as the oven or stovetop. Potatoes, known for their versatility and nutritional value, can often take a significant amount of time to cook using conventional methods. However, by opting to use the microwave, you can have perfectly cooked potatoes in just a fraction of the time.

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Not only does microwaving diced potatoes save time, but it also ensures that you can enjoy your meal sooner. In addition, it allows you to quickly and efficiently cook various potato dishes, whether you’re making a simple side or a more complex recipe.

2. Easy Cleanup: Microwaving Diced Potatoes For A Mess-Free Cooking Experience

Another advantage of microwaving diced potatoes is the ease of cleanup. Traditional cooking methods like using the oven or stovetop often leave behind a mess that requires extensive scrubbing. However, by using the microwave, you can avoid these messy situations and enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience.

Simply prepare your diced potatoes, place them in a microwave-safe dish, and let the microwave do its magic. With no pots or pans to clean afterward, microwaving diced potatoes becomes a convenient and efficient way to cook.

  • Advantage: Ease of cleanup
  • Traditional cooking methods leave behind a mess that requires extensive scrubbing
  • Microwaving avoids messy situations
  • Enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience

“With no pots or pans to clean afterward, microwaving diced potatoes becomes a convenient and efficient way to cook.”

3. Nutritional Comparison: Sweet Potatoes Vs. Russet Potatoes – Understanding The Calorie And Sugar Differences

When it comes to choosing between sweet potatoes and russet potatoes for your dishes, it’s essential to understand the nutritional differences between the two.

  • Sweet potatoes have slightly fewer calories and carbohydrates than russet potatoes, making them a great option for those watching their calorie intake.
  • However, it’s important to note that sweet potatoes contain more sugar compared to russet potatoes.

To put it into perspective:

  • Russet potatoes have approximately 94 calories per 100 grams, while sweet potatoes contain around 86 calories per 100 grams.

Therefore, depending on your dietary goals and preferences, you can choose the potato variety that best suits your needs.

4. Retaining Nutrients: Microwaving Potatoes Preserves More Essential Vitamins And Minerals

When it comes to preserving the nutrients in potatoes, microwaving offers a superior method compared to boiling. Boiling can cause essential vitamins and minerals to leach into the cooking water, resulting in a significant loss of nutritional value. However, microwaving is a gentler cooking method that allows potatoes to retain more of their essential nutrients.

Microwaving also doesn’t reduce the vitamin C content in potatoes. Vitamin C is a vital antioxidant that plays a crucial role in boosting the immune system and fighting off harmful free radicals. By microwaving your potatoes, you can ensure that they retain their valuable vitamin C content, helping you maintain a healthy and balanced diet.

  • Microwaving is a superior method for preserving nutrients in potatoes compared to boiling.
  • Boiling can cause essential vitamins and minerals to leach into the cooking water, resulting in a loss of nutritional value.
  • Microwaving is a gentler cooking method that allows potatoes to retain more of their essential nutrients.
  • Microwaving does not reduce the vitamin C content in potatoes.
  • Vitamin C is a vital antioxidant that boosts the immune system and fights off harmful free radicals.
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5. Achieving Texture Without The Fat: Microwaving For A Healthier Alternative To Frying

One of the benefits of microwaving potatoes is that it allows you to achieve a similar texture to frying with significantly less fat. Frying potatoes in oil can make them crispy and delicious, but it also adds unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats. Instead, by microwaving your diced potatoes, you can enjoy the same texture without the negative health implications.

The key to achieving a crispy texture with microwaved potatoes is to prick the potato cubes with a fork and wrap them in a towel before microwaving. This method allows the excess moisture to escape, resulting in a desired crispy texture.

6. Step-By-Step Guide: Mastering The Art Of Microwaving Potato Cubes For Delicious Recipes

To successfully microwave potato cubes, follow these simple steps:

  1. Wash the potato thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Then, slice it into cubes of your desired size.

  2. Place the potato cubes in a microwave-safe dish, ensuring they are evenly spread out. This allows for better heat distribution and ensures that each cube is cooked evenly.

  3. Microwave the potato cubes on high for approximately five minutes. After five minutes, turn them over to promote even cooking and prevent any burnt spots.

  4. Microwave for an additional five minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the potato cubes, so adjust accordingly.

  5. Once cooked, you have the option to add olive oil or butter and seasonings of your choice for added flavor. However, this step is entirely optional, and the microwaved potato cubes can also be enjoyed as is.

It’s important to note that while microwaving is an excellent method for cooking potato cubes, it may not be suitable for mashed potatoes. The lack of moisture in the cubes can result in dry and clumpy mashed potatoes, so it’s best to use a different cooking method for that particular dish.

Once you’ve mastered the art of microwaving potato cubes, you can incorporate them into numerous recipes. From a refreshing Sweet Potato Salad to a delightful and flavorful Tasty Sweet Potato Puff, the possibilities are endless.

In conclusion, microwaving diced potatoes is a quick and easy method that saves time, leads to easier cleanup, and retains more nutrients compared to conventional cooking methods. Whether you prefer sweet potatoes or russet potatoes, microwaving allows you to achieve delicious results while providing a healthier alternative to frying. By following a simple step-by-step guide, you can master the art of microwaving potato cubes and enjoy them in various tasty recipes.

  • Wash the potato thoroughly
  • Slice it into cubes of your desired size
  • Place the potato cubes in a microwave-safe dish
  • Microwave on high for approximately five minutes
  • Turn the cubes over after five minutes
  • Microwave for an additional five minutes or until fork-tender
  • Optionally, add olive oil or butter and seasonings for flavoring.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to boil cubed potatoes in the microwave?

Microwaving cubed potatoes to perfection requires approximately 10 minutes on high power. However, the duration may slightly vary depending on the wattage of your microwave. It is advisable to periodically check for tenderness by piercing the potatoes with a fork. Once they are easily penetrated, your microwaved cubed potatoes will be ready to grace your taste buds with their delightful softness. Whether you choose to add salt during microwaving or later is entirely up to your personal preference.

Can you microwave potatoes instead of boiling?

Yes, microwaving potatoes can be a convenient alternative to boiling them. By adding water and salt, covering the bowl, and microwaving on high for short intervals, you can achieve tender and delicious cooked potatoes. This method saves time and requires less effort compared to boiling, making it a practical option for a quick and easy meal or side dish.

Can you microwave raw potatoes?

Yes, you can microwave raw potatoes by following a few simple steps. Begin by thoroughly scrubbing your potatoes and then pricking the skin multiple times. This will help the skin crisp up while the inside becomes tender. Place the prepared potato in the microwave and cook for about 4-5 minutes per potato. Then, flip it over and continue cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes. By using this method, you can quickly and easily enjoy a microwave-cooked raw potato with a crispy skin and soft interior.

How long do you microwave potatoes to soften them?

To soften potatoes in the microwave, it typically takes around 5-6 minutes in a 1000w microwave. It is advised to cut the potato in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking. However, for microwaves with lower wattage, it may be necessary to add an extra 1-2 minutes to achieve a fully cooked potato.