Microwave Sweet Potatoes in Minutes.

Microwaving gives you sweet and tender kamote fast. Our Orange Kalim aw from Bukidnon cooks through in a few minutes, and you can finish it in a toaster oven for crisp skin if you like.

Before you start

• Pick potatoes of similar size for even cooking

• Wash, scrub, and dry well

• Pierce the skin a few times so steam can escape

• Use a microwave safe plate and tongs or mitts when turning

Time guide by sweet potato size

These are starting points for one potato on High in a typical home microwave. Turn halfway and add time if needed.

• Small 4 to 5 minutes

• Medium 5 to 6 minutes

• Large 7 to 8 minutes

Tip for power: Lower wattage ovens like 700 W may need about 40 percent more time. If your oven runs hot, reduce in 30 second steps.

Cooking more than one Add about 2 minutes for each extra potato. Always check the thickest part. A knife should slide in easily.

Step by step

1. Scrub, dry, and pierce the potato all over.

2. Microwave on High using the size guide above. Turn once.

3. Let it rest 1 to 2 minutes so heat evens out.

4. Split open and fluff the center with a fork.

5. Add toppings and season to taste.

Optional moisture tip: Wrap the potato in a barely damp paper towel before cooking if you like a softer skin.

Optional crisp skin finish: After microwaving, place on a hot toaster oven rack or use the broiler for 3 to 6 minutes until the skin dries and crisps.

Cut up version

Short on time Cut into 2 to 3 centimeter chunks. Place in a microwave safe dish, cover loosely, and cook 3 minutes. Stir, then continue in 30 to 60 second steps until tender.

When to add butter or oil

Add butter, olive oil, or coconut oil after cooking. A little fat not only tastes good, it also helps your body use the beta carotene in orange sweet potatoes.

Five quick topping ideas

Sweet and savory mixes you can make in minutes.

1. Honey butter and sea salt

2. Garlic yogurt and spring onions

3. Tuna with yogurt, cucumber, and pepper

4. Peanut butter with a few drops of chili oil

5. Grated cheese with tomatoes and calamansi

Storage and reheating

• Refrigerate cooked sweet potatoes within two hours

• Keep for three to four days in a sealed container

• Reheat in the microwave until steaming hot

• For a bit of crisp, reheat wedges in a toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes

Ready to try this with Orange Kalim aw from Bukidnon Order at baligya.store for pickup or delivery in Metro Manila.

Sources

• Food Network. How to Cook a Sweet Potato in the Microwave. https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/packages/food-network-essentials/how-to-cook-a-sweet-potato-in-the-microwave Food Network

• The Kitchn. 5 Minute Microwave Sweet Potato with broiler finish for crisp skin. https://www.thekitchn.com/microwave-sweet-potato-23005018 The Kitchn

• BBC Good Food. Microwave sweet potato times and doneness check. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/microwave-sweet-potato-black-bean-chilli Good Food

• Real Simple. Microwave method and add 2 minutes per extra potato. https://www.realsimple.com/holidays-entertaining/holidays/thanksgiving/how-to-microwave-sweet-potato Real Simple

• Allrecipes. Microwave how to and note on broiling to crisp skin. https://www.allrecipes.com/article/how-to-cook-sweet-potato-in-microwave/ Allrecipes

• FSIS USDA. Leftovers and Food Safety. Refrigerate within two hours use within 3 to 4 days. https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/leftovers-and-food-safety Food Safety and Inspection Service

• Microwave time conversions for 700 W vs 1000 W. Chart PDF. https://microwavecookingforone.com/Charts/pdf/ChartSpecial89.pdf microwavecookingforone.com

• Review on dietary fat and carotenoid absorption. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12002680/ PubMed