Potato Button on the Microwave – Cooking Made Easy

Potato Button on the Microwave

Cooking potatoes in the microwave oven has never been easier thanks to the potato button. This handy button takes the guesswork out of microwaving potatoes and ensures perfect baked potatoes every time.

Read on to learn how this button works and why it’s a game-changer for baking potatoes in the microwave.

What is the potato button on a microwave?

The potato button on a microwave oven is a pre-programmed sensor setting designed specifically for baking whole potatoes. It uses a moisture sensor to detect when the potato is fully cooked and automatically adjusts the cooking time accordingly.

The potato button simplifies the process so you don’t have to guess cooking times based on potato size.

How does the potato button work?

The potato button utilizes a moisture sensor inside the microwave to detect when a potato is fully cooked and tender all the way through. When you press the potato button, the microwave starts heating the potato. As the potato cooks, it releases moisture that is detected by the sensor.

Once the sensor detects that the potato is adequately cooked and most of the moisture has evaporated, the microwave will stop heating. This prevents overcooking and ensures a fluffy, baked potato with a crispy skin every time.

Benefits of using the potato button

• No guessing cooking times – the microwave does the work.
• Potatoes cook evenly and thoroughly
• Produces baked potatoes with fluffy insides and crisp skins
• Simplifies the cooking process – just press one button
• Frees you up to prepare other meal items while potato cooks
• Can cook potatoes of varying sizes

How to use the potato button

Follow these simple steps for perfect microwaved baked potatoes every time:

Prep the potato

• Choose potato sizes that fit in your microwave. Medium Russet potatoes work well.
• Scrub under water to clean. Dry thoroughly with a paper towel.
• Pierce skin all over the potato with a fork about 6-8 times. This allows steam to escape.
• Place potato directly on microwave turntable.

Press the potato button

• Input the number of potatoes you are cooking, usually 1-2.
• Press the potato button on your microwave.

Check for doneness

• A microwave will beep when done and turn off.
• Carefully remove the potato – it will be very hot!
• Check internal temperature with a thermometer – it should register 200°F.
• Let sit for 5 minutes before cutting to allow steam to distribute through the potato.

Tips for the best microwaved baked potatoes

• Choose medium-sized Russet potatoes, 6-8 ounces each
• Poke holes all over before cooking
• Place directly on the turntable, no plate is needed
• Let sit for 5 minutes before eating
• Top with butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon bits, etc.

Recipes and topping ideas

• Classic toppings – Butter, sour cream, cheese, green onions
• Chili – Top with leftover chili, cheese, and onions
• Broccoli and cheese – Steam broccoli while potato cooks then mix it together
• Taco potato – Ground beef, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and salsa
• Greek potato – Feta, olives, red onion, oregano, olive oil

Experiment with your favorite ingredients! The potato button ensures the base potato will be cooked to perfection.

Summary of key points on microwaving potatoes

• The potato button eliminates guessing and ensures perfect baked potatoes
• It uses a moisture sensor to detect when potatoes are fully cooked
• Prep potatoes by poking holes to vent steam while cooking
• Input the number of potatoes and press the potato button
• Let potatoes sit 5 minutes after cooking for best results
• Top baked potatoes with anything – they pair well with many flavors!

The potato button takes the complication out of microwaving potatoes. For quick weeknight dinners or easy side dishes, rely on this button for perfect baked potatoes every time!

FAQs

How do I cook a potato in the microwave?

To cook a potato in the microwave, start by washing the potato thoroughly and then poking it several times with a fork or knife to create steam vents. Then, place the potato on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for 4-6 minutes per potato, depending on the size. Flip the potato halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.

Can I bake a potato in the microwave?

Yes, you can bake a potato in the microwave. Follow the same steps as cooking a potato in the microwave, but cook it for a longer time. For one potato, start with cooking for 6-8 minutes on high, then check if it’s done by poking it with a fork or knife. If it’s still firm, continue cooking in 1-2 minute increments until it’s tender.

How long does it take to cook a baked potato in the microwave?

The cooking time for a baked potato in the microwave can vary depending on the size of the potato and the power of your microwave. Generally, it takes around 6-8 minutes on high for a medium-sized potato. Larger potatoes may require additional cooking time.

How do I know when the potato is done cooking in the microwave?

You can check if the potato is done by poking it with a fork or knife. If it easily goes through the potato without resistance, it’s done cooking. Another way to test is by gently squeezing the potato – if it feels soft and gives in, it’s likely cooked through.

Can I reheat a baked potato in the microwave?

Yes, you can. If you have leftover baked potatoes, you can reheat them in the microwave. Simply place the potato on a microwave-safe plate and reheat for 1-2 minutes on high. Make sure to slice the potato open and fluff the insides with a fork before reheating, to ensure it heats evenly.

Is it safe to microwave a potato without piercing it?

It is generally recommended to pierce the potato before microwaving it. Piercing the potato creates steam vents, which helps prevent excessive pressure build-up inside the potato and reduces the risk of it exploding in the microwave.

How can I keep the potato from drying out in the microwave?

To prevent the potato from drying out in the microwave, you can wrap it in a damp paper towel before cooking. This helps retain moisture and prevents the potato from becoming too dry.

Can I cook multiple potatoes in the microwave at the same time?

Yes, you can cook multiple potatoes in the microwave at the same time. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. It’s best to cook similar-sized potatoes together to ensure they cook evenly.

Can I cook smaller potatoes in the microwave?

Yes, you can cook smaller potatoes in the microwave. Smaller potatoes will generally cook faster than larger ones, so you may need to reduce the cooking time. Start with a shorter cooking time and keep checking for doneness by poking with a fork or knife.

What are some favorite toppings for a microwave-baked potato?

Some popular toppings for a microwave-baked potato are butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits, and salt and pepper. You can also get creative and add your favorite ingredients to customize the flavors.