HOW TO COOK A SWEET POTATO IN THE MICROWAVE
Quick, simple method to cook a tender, caramelized sweet potato in the microwave — perfect for a fast lunch or side dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 each sweet potato (medium, about 8 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil optional, helps crisp the skin
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter optional, for serving
- 0.125 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper optional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Wash the sweet potato thoroughly under running water and scrub the skin to remove dirt. Pat dry with a paper towel.
- Use a fork to pierce the sweet potato all over (about 6 to 8 times) to allow steam to escape while cooking.
- Rub the sweet potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, if using. This helps the skin become slightly crisp.
- Place the sweet potato on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 5 minutes.
- Carefully flip the potato and microwave on high for an additional 3 minutes. If the potato is larger, add 1–2 minutes and check for doneness.
- Check doneness by inserting a fork into the center — it should slide in easily. If not done, microwave in 30- to 60-second increments until tender.
- Let the sweet potato rest for 2 minutes to finish steaming. Split open, add butter, season with black pepper, and serve.
Notes
Microwave times vary by wattage and potato size. For best texture, finish briefly under a broiler or in a hot oven for 3–5 minutes to crisp the skin.
Nutrition
Serving: 200gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 120gProtein: 120gFat: 120gSaturated Fat: 120gPolyunsaturated Fat: 120gMonounsaturated Fat: 120gTrans Fat: 120gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 120gSugar: 120gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 120mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 120mg
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