Effortless and Delicious: Learn How to Cook Baby Gold Potatoes in the Microwave!

Are you looking for a quick and easy way to cook delicious baby gold potatoes? Look no further, because the microwave is here to save the day! Gone are the days of waiting for a pot of water to boil or turning on the oven. In this article, we’ll teach you how to cook baby gold potatoes in the microwave, resulting in perfectly tender and flavorful spuds in a fraction of the time. No more excuses for skipping out on this nutritious side dish – let’s get cooking!

What You Will Need

Before getting started on cooking your baby gold potatoes in the microwave, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools. Here’s a list of items you will need:

– Baby gold potatoes
– Microwave-safe dish
– Pot holder or oven mitt
– Salt
– Water
– Butter (optional)
– Seasonings of your choice (optional)

Choosing the Right Potatoes

When it comes to cooking baby gold potatoes in the microwave, choosing the right potatoes is crucial. These small round potatoes are perfect for roasting, boiling, mashing, and even microwaving. When picking out baby gold potatoes at the market, look for ones that are firm with a smooth skin. Avoid any green sprouts or discoloration.

It’s also important to note that size matters when it comes to cooking in the microwave. Smaller baby gold potatoes will cook faster and more evenly compared to larger ones.

How to Prepare the Potatoes

Now that you have your baby gold potatoes ready, it’s time to prepare them for cooking in the microwave. Start by rinsing them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris from their skin. Once cleaned, pat them dry with a clean towel.

Next, using a sharp knife, cut off any sprouts or blemishes on the potatoes’ skin. You can also peel off any discolored areas if desired.

If you prefer softer skins on your cooked potatoes, you can prick each potato with a fork or knife before microwaving them. This allows steam to escape and prevents them from bursting while cooking.

How to Cook Baby Gold Potatoes in Microwave

Once your potatoes are prepped and ready to go, follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked baby gold potatoes in minutes:

1. Place the rinsed and prepped potatoes in a microwave-safe dish in a single layer. If your dish is not large enough, you can cook them in batches.
2. Add enough water to cover the bottom of the dish, about 1/4 inch deep. This will create steam and help cook the potatoes evenly.
3. For seasoning and flavor, add a pinch of salt on top of the potatoes. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder or rosemary for extra taste.
4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap, making sure to leave a small vent for steam to escape.
5. Place the dish in the microwave and cook on high power for 6-9 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage and the size of your potatoes.
6. Check if the potatoes are cooked by piercing them with a fork or knife. If they’re still hard, continue microwaving in one-minute increments until they reach your desired tenderness.

Serving and Additional Tips

Once your baby gold potatoes are fully cooked, remove them from the microwave using an oven mitt or pot holder as they will be hot.

For serving, you can slice them up and top with butter or your favorite seasoning for added flavor.

Here are a few extra tips to keep in mind when cooking baby gold potatoes in the microwave:

– Experiment with different seasonings to find your preferred flavor profile.
– To avoid overcooked or burnt spots on potatoes, make sure they are spaced out evenly in the dish.
– If you prefer crispy skins on your cooked potatoes, after microwaving, transfer them to an oven-safe dish and broil them for a few minutes until crispy.
– Want larger portions? Simply increase cooking time by adding an additional minute or two per potato.
– Always use oven mitts or pot holders when removing hot dishes from the microwave.

Conclusion

Cooking baby gold potatoes in the microwave is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious and versatile vegetable. By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked potatoes in no time. Whether you’re having them as a side dish, adding them to salads or soups, or just snacking on them, baby gold potatoes will surely be a hit. So next time you’re in a rush but still craving some potato goodness, give this microwave cooking method a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

Benefits of Cooking Baby Gold Potatoes in the Microwave

Cooking potatoes in the microwave is a quick and convenient way to prepare a delicious side dish. When it comes to baby gold potatoes, microwaving them has even more benefits. These small potatoes are packed with nutrients and have a delicate, buttery flavor that is perfect for pairing with a wide range of dishes. In this section, we will discuss the various benefits of cooking baby gold potatoes in the microwave.

1. Time-Saving
One of the biggest advantages of cooking baby gold potatoes in the microwave is how quickly they can be prepared. Unlike other methods such as boiling or baking, which can take up to 30 minutes or more, microwaving these little spuds will only take about 5-8 minutes depending on their size. This makes them an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you don’t have much time to cook.

2. Retains Nutrients
When vegetables are cooked using traditional methods such as boiling or baking, a significant amount of their nutrients leach out into the cooking water or escape through steam. However, when you cook baby gold potatoes in the microwave, they retain most of their nutrients because they are not immersed in water and there is no steam escaping.

3. Easy Preparation
Microwaved potatoes require very little prep work compared to other methods. All you need to do is wash and dry them well, prick them all over with a fork or knife to allow steam to escape (prevents explosions), and then place them on a microwave-safe plate or dish. No peeling necessary! This makes microwaved baby gold potatoes perfect for when you want to whip up a quick side dish without too much fuss.

4. Versatile
Microwaved baby gold potatoes can be used in a variety of dishes – mashed, roasted, grilled – the possibilities are endless! Their creamy texture and mild flavor make them the perfect base for all kinds of seasoning and sauces. They are also great for meal prepping, as they can easily be reheated in the microwave without losing their taste or texture.

5. Energy-Efficient
Did you know that microwaving baby gold potatoes actually uses less energy compared to boiling or baking? That’s because the microwave cooks food using electromagnetic waves instead of heating up water or air. This not only means that it is a greener and more eco-friendly way to cook, but it also means you’ll see a significant reduction in your energy bill!

6. Softens Skin
One unique benefit of microwaving baby gold potatoes is that it softens their skin, making it edible. This is perfect for those who find potato skin too tough to eat, but still want to reap the nutritional benefits of eating it. Softened potato skin also makes for a quicker preparation time as you don’t need to spend extra time peeling them.

7. Saves Space
Cooking in the microwave also takes up very little space compared to using traditional cooking methods such as stovetop or oven cooking. In fact, you don’t even need a stove or oven at all – all you need is a microwave! This makes microwaved baby gold potatoes a great option for those with limited kitchen space or those who are travelling and have limited access to cooking equipment.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Baby Gold Potatoes in the Microwave

Now that we’ve covered the benefits of cooking baby gold potatoes in the microwave, let’s discuss how exactly to do so in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Wash and Dry
Before cooking, wash your baby gold potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Make sure they are completely dry before proceeding with the next step.

Step 2: Prick All Over
Using a fork or knife, prick each potato all over. This will allow steam to escape and prevent the potatoes from exploding in the microwave.

Step 3: Place in Microwave-Safe Dish
Place your prepared potatoes on a microwave-safe dish or plate. Make sure there is enough space between each potato to allow for even cooking.

Step 4: Microwave on High
Microwave your baby gold potatoes on high for 5-8 minutes, depending on their size. Check them after 5 minutes, and if they are not fully cooked, continue microwaving in 1-minute increments until they are soft and tender.

Step 5: Let Cool
Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the microwave and let them cool for a couple of minutes before handling them.

Step 6: Enjoy!
Your microwaved baby gold potatoes are now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve them as is with a touch of salt and pepper as a simple side dish, or get creative and add your favorite seasonings or toppings.

Tips for Perfectly Microwaved Baby Gold Potatoes

– Make sure to prick your potatoes all over to allow steam to escape and prevent explosions.
– Do not overcrowd the potatoes on the microwave-safe dish –

Q: How do I cook baby gold potatoes in the microwave?
A: To cook baby gold potatoes in the microwave, wash them thoroughly and pierce each potato with a fork. Place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for about 5 minutes or until they are soft.

Q: Can I cook baby gold potatoes without piercing them?
A: No, it is important to pierce the potatoes to prevent them from exploding in the microwave due to steam build-up.

Q: How long should I cook baby gold potatoes in the microwave?
A: The cooking time may vary depending on the size and quantity of potatoes. On average, it takes about 5 minutes on high power for baby gold potatoes to become tender.

Q: Are there any other ways to cook baby gold potatoes besides microwaving?
A: Yes, you can boil them, roast them in the oven, or even grill them. Each method may produce different textures and flavors, so experiment and see which one you prefer.

Q: Do I need to add any liquid when microwaving baby gold potatoes?
A: No, you do not need to add any liquid when microwaving baby gold potatoes. The moisture inside the potato will be enough for cooking it.

Q: Can I season my baby gold potatoes before microwaving them?
A: Absolutely! You can season your potatoes with your choice of herbs and spices before microwaving for added flavor. Just make sure to pierce the skin first so that the seasonings can penetrate the potato.

In conclusion, cooking baby gold potatoes in the microwave is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this delicious and versatile vegetable. By following a few simple steps, you can achieve perfectly cooked potatoes that are tender and flavorful. It is important to select good quality potatoes, properly clean and pierce them to ensure even cooking. Additionally, seasoning and adding other ingredients can enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

Microwaves have often been seen as solely for reheating food, but cooking baby gold potatoes in the microwave shows their versatility in preparing fresh meals. Furthermore, it offers a faster alternative to traditional methods such as boiling or roasting. This makes it a great option for busy individuals or those looking for a hassle-free cooking experience.

Moreover, cooking baby gold potatoes in the microwave provides a healthier option compared to frying or using excessive amounts of oil. The minimal use of oil helps retain more nutrients and reduces calorie intake while still providing a delicious dish.

Incorporating these small golden gems into your meals not only adds variety but also provides numerous health benefits. Baby gold potatoes are rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamin C, making them a nutritious addition to any diet. They also offer versatility in terms of dishes they can be used in – from side dishes to main courses.

Author Profile

Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.