Have you ever thought about boiling potatoes without pots and without waiting for the water to boil? With the microwave you can do it in just a few minutes, saving time and energy! This method is not only incredibly convenient for a last-minute side dish, but it also helps better preserve vitamins and minerals, preventing them from leaching into the cooking water. Learn how to get soft and flavorful potatoes, perfect for mashed potatoes, gnocchi, or salads. All ready in 10 minutes!
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Cost: Very economical
- Rest time: 2 Minutes
- Preparation time: 2 Minutes
- Cooking time: 7 Minutes
- Portions: 4 People
- Cooking methods: Microwave
- Seasonality: All seasons
- Energy 102.67 (Kcal)
- Carbohydrates 23.32 (g) of which sugars 1.09 (g)
- Proteins 2.73 (g)
- Fat 0.12 (g) of which saturated 0.03 (g)of which unsaturated 0.06 (g)
- Fibers 2.80 (g)
- Sodium 8.00 (mg)
Indicative values for a portion of 120 g processed in an automated way starting from the nutritional information available on the CREA* and FoodData Central** databases. It is not food and / or nutritional advice.
* CREATES Food and Nutrition Research Center: https://www.crea.gov.it/alimenti-e-nutrizione https://www.alimentinutrizione.it ** U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
Ingredients
- 4 potatoes (about 1 lb 2 oz (approx. 500 g))
Tools
- 1 Microwave-safe container Suitable for microwave cooking
- 1 Fork
Step-by-step preparation
Thoroughly wash the potatoes under running water, removing any traces of soil. Dry them well with a cloth and pierce them deeply and several times with a fork or the tip of a knife: this step is essential and mandatory to let the steam escape and prevent them from bursting during cooking.
Place the potatoes in the container suitable for microwave cooking, with the lid closed and the vent valve open. If your container doesn’t have a valve, leave the lid slightly ajar.
Set the microwave to 800 W and cook for 7-8 minutes. Halfway through (after about 4 minutes), carefully open the container to let the steam out and turn the potatoes, so as to obtain an even cooking on all sides.
When the cooking time is over, check the texture by piercing the potatoes with a fork. If they are still too firm, extend the cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
Once cooked, let the potatoes rest in the container for a couple of minutes before peeling them or using them in your recipes.
Tips and variations
Variable cooking times: If the potatoes are larger, they may require 10-12 minutes. If your microwave has a power higher than 800 W, reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
With or without water? If you want the potatoes to stay moister, you can add a tablespoon of water to the container before cooking.
Aromatic version: Add aromatic herbs such as rosemary or thyme in the container to scent the potatoes during cooking.
How can you tell if a container is suitable for microwave use? There should be a symbol like this under it 
, sometimes the wattage is also written, for example 400 W — in that case the maximum power that container can be used at in the microwave is indicated. If it also says NO LID, then the lid is not suitable for the microwave and must be removed.
Does reheating food in the microwave increase cancer risk? Let’s clarify HERE
FAQ – Boiled potatoes in the microwave
Can I use any container for microwave cooking?
No, it is important to use a container certified for microwave use. Check for the wave symbol on the bottom of the container or an indication of the maximum power it supports.
Are microwaved potatoes safe?
Absolutely yes! The microwave does not alter the nutritional properties of foods; in fact, it helps preserve vitamins and minerals that would otherwise disperse into the cooking water.
Can I cook several potatoes at the same time?
Yes, but make sure to distribute them evenly in the container and, if necessary, increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes.
Can microwaved potatoes be stored?
Yes, you can store them in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. They are perfect for preparing potato salads or quick mashed potatoes in advance!
Boiling potatoes in the microwave is a handy and quick trick to have an ingredient ready in minutes, without having to boil water. Perfect for last-minute mashed potatoes, a tasty salad, or a simple and healthy side dish. Try this method and discover how convenient the microwave can be in the kitchen!
