Are you on a diet? Want to enjoy your favorite foods but worried about calories? You can enjoy this easiest recipe of microwave sweet potato and eat guilt-free. Moreover, you can also make it for your kids and they will love it. Also, serve it as a healthy side with your main course.
Ditch the long cooking process of Roasting and Baking. Now make your sweet potatoes in the microwave in a few quick steps. This is going to be the QUICKEST method to enjoy this nutritious and delicious root vegetable.
So whether you’re running late or looking for a hassle-free cooking technique, this recipe is a game-changer. Microwaving it for too long can make it become shriveled and dried up and too short can end up being undercooked.
Benefits of Sweet Potato
Besides giving a mouthwatering flavor, sweet potatoes offer a lot of health advantages. This vegetable is rich in nutrients and you can enjoy it in a variety of meals. Moreover, it is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The microwave method preserves its nutritional value while being a convenient method.
This nutritional powerhouse is a vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free meal option. Additionally, it is an excellent source of dietary fiber. It promotes digestion and gut health. Moreover, their vibrant orange color indicates their high beta-carotene content.
When we eat these potatoes, the beta carotene converts into Vitamin A in the body. As a result, it supports vision and the immune system. Sweet potatoes also contain essential vitamins like Vitamin C and B and minerals like potassium and manganese.
Microwave Sweet Potato as a Healthy Food
This recipe is a health-conscious choice. In this way, we can preserve more nutrients as compared to boiling or frying. Cooking sweet potatoes in the microwave is helpful in retaining their natural flavors and antioxidants. Moreover, we need to put very little to no added fats. As a result, it becomes a heart-healthy option for those watching their fat intake.
The taste does not come out the same as roasted or steamed. The texture is a bit drier and not that caramelized. But if you follow the recipe closely, this is going to be your go-to option. The microwave technique works best for a quick, single-serving meal or snack. When you’re at the dorm or your office or need a quick-lunch-fix for your toddler.
Microwave Sweet Potato Recipe
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes (as many as desired)
- Olive oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Toppings of your choice
Instructions
- Wash and Pierce:
Thoroughly wash the sweet potatoes to remove any dust. Rinse it under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Use a fork to pierce the skin several times. In this way, steam can escape during cooking.
- Arrange and Microwave:
Place the sweet potatoes in a microwave-safe dish. Make sure to position them evenly. You can rub a bit of olive oil on the skin for added flavor, richness, and crispiness. Then microwave on high for 5-8 minutes. Cooking time depends on the size of the sweet potatoes.
- Check for Doneness:
After the initial cooking time, press the sweet potatoes carefully with a spoon. They should be tender and should not be hard or rigid to the touch. If needed, continue microwaving in 1-minute intervals until fully cooked.
- Season and Serve:
Once done, let the sweet potatoes rest for a short while. Slice them open with a knife, then fluff the insides with a fork. Lastly, season the potatoes with salt and pepper. You can also top them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sprinkle some oregano for extra flavor. You can even top it up with some cheese and microwave for a minute.
Serving
Microwave sweet potato can be served as a standalone dish, a starter, or as a side in various recipes. They make a satisfying and nutritious base for toppings like grilled vegetables, black beans, or shredded chicken. You can even serve it to babies due to the soft texture.
Calories
The caloric content of microwave sweet potatoes varies depending on their size and toppings. On average, a medium-sized potato cooked in the microwave contains around 100-120 calories.
Conclusion
Adding microwave sweet potato into your diet is a smart choice. You can enjoy its exceptional taste and health benefits without compromising convenience. This fail-proof method ensures that you can savor all of its goodness even on your busiest days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should you microwave a sweet potato?
Microwaving times can vary, but generally, it takes about 5-8 minutes per sweet potato. Adjust the time based on the size and capacity of your microwave. You can check and give some more minutes if not done.
Can you microwave a raw sweet potato?
Yes, you can. Microwaving raw sweet potatoes is a quick way to cook them while preserving their nutrients.
What is the best way to microwave a yam?
The process of microwaving yams is similar to microwaving sweet potatoes. Wash, pierce, and cook them in the microwave until tender. You can add some olive oil to give a rich taste as well.
Do you take the plastic off the microwave sweet potato?
Yes, it’s important to remove any plastic or packaging before microwaving sweet potatoes. Only use microwave-safe dishes and utensils. Because it can transfer toxins into the food.