Microwaving Potatoes: Pampered Chef Rice Steamer Method

Microwaves are a great way to cook potatoes quickly and conveniently. You can use the Pampered Chef Rice Steamer to cook potatoes in the microwave, and there are a few different ways to do this. One way is to simply place the potatoes in the steamer with a little water and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. You can also make mashed potatoes in the Pampered Chef Rice Steamer by placing peeled or unpeeled cut potatoes in the steamer with enough water to cover them, microwaving for 10-12 minutes, and then mashing with milk, salt, and any desired mix-ins. Another option is to bake potatoes in the microwave by pricking them with a fork, rubbing them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and then microwaving for 5 minutes on each side. Microwaving potatoes is a quick and easy way to get a delicious and tender potato, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or as a base for other recipes.

How to cook potatoes in the Pampered Chef Rice Steamer

The Pampered Chef Rice Steamer, or Micro-Cooker, is a versatile tool for cooking rice and other grains, as well as steaming vegetables, cooking meat, and making cakes. It comes in three sizes: 1-quart, 2-quart, and 3-quart, and is BPA-free and safe for microwave use.

Cooking potatoes in the Pampered Chef Rice Steamer

The Micro-Cooker can be used to cook whole potatoes, as well as mashed potatoes.

Whole potatoes

To cook whole potatoes in the Micro-Cooker, follow these steps:

• Place the desired number of potatoes in the Micro-Cooker. For even cooking, ensure the potatoes are a similar size.
• Add enough water to cover the potatoes.
• Cover the Micro-Cooker with the two lids.
• Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
• Carefully remove the lids and drain the water.

Mashed potatoes

To make mashed potatoes in the Micro-Cooker, follow these steps:

• Place 1.5 pounds of peeled or unpeeled, cut potatoes into the Micro-Cooker. Ensure the potato chunks are a similar size for even cooking.
• Add enough water to cover the potatoes.
• Cover and microwave on high for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
• Carefully remove the lids and drain the water.
• Add ¼ cup of milk to the potatoes and mash to the desired consistency.
• Season with salt and pepper, and add any other desired mix-ins, such as butter, garlic, Greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, or crumbled bacon.

Tips for cooking potatoes in the microwave

• Always use a microwave-safe container, such as the Pampered Chef Rice Steamer, when cooking potatoes in the microwave.
• Avoid using generic plastic wrap and plastic storage or grocery bags, as these may melt onto your food.
• Pierce whole potatoes with a fork several times before microwaving to allow steam to escape and prevent the potato from exploding.

How to steam potatoes in the microwave

Steaming potatoes in the microwave is a quick and easy way to cook potatoes, and it can be done in a Pampered Chef rice steamer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash the potatoes and cut them into similar-sized chunks. This will ensure even cooking. You can peel the potatoes if you prefer, but it is not necessary.

Step 2: Add Water and Seasonings

Place the potato chunks into the rice steamer. Add enough water to cover the potatoes. You can also add seasonings like salt, pepper, or herbs if desired.

Step 3: Microwave

Cover the rice steamer with both lids and place it in the microwave. Cook on high power for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the quantity of potatoes and the power of your microwave, so adjust as needed.

Step 4: Drain and Mash (Optional)

Carefully remove the steamer from the microwave, as it will be hot. Drain the water and add milk or butter to the potatoes, mashing them to your desired consistency. You can also add more seasonings, such as garlic or cheese, to taste.

Tips:

• If you are cooking a large quantity of potatoes, you may need to cook them in batches to ensure even cooking.
• For crispier skin, transfer the potatoes to a preheated oven at 425°F (218°C) after microwaving.
• To par-cook the potatoes, microwave them for 3-5 minutes and then finish cooking them on a grill or in an oven.
• Always use microwave-safe containers and avoid plastic wrap or grocery bags, as they may melt.

Steaming potatoes in the microwave is a convenient and quick way to prepare them, and with the Pampered Chef rice steamer, you can easily cook them to a tender consistency.

How to bake a potato in the microwave

Baking a potato in the microwave is a quick and easy way to get a tasty, tender potato. It's a great solution when you're short on time or patience and need dinner on the table with zero delays. Here's how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Potato

Start by selecting your potato. Russet potatoes are a good choice due to their thick skin and starchy insides, but you can use any starchy potato. Give the potato a good scrub under running water, then pat it dry. You don't need to remove the eyes, but trim away any blemishes with a paring knife.

Step 2: Poke Holes

Using a fork, prick the potato four or five times on each side. These holes are important as they allow steam to escape while the potato is cooking. If you forget this step, your potato might explode in the microwave from the pent-up steam!

Step 3: Season

Rub the potato all over with a little olive oil, then sprinkle it generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings of your choice, such as oregano.

Step 4: Microwave

Place the potato in a microwave-safe dish and cook at full power. For one potato, microwave for 5 minutes, then flip it over and cook for an additional 3 minutes. For two or more potatoes, microwave for 5 minutes, flip, and then cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Check Doneness

The potato is done when it can be easily pierced with a fork or paring knife all the way to the center. If it's not quite there yet, continue microwaving in 1-minute bursts until it's cooked through. Remember to use oven mitts when removing the dish from the microwave, as it will be hot.

Tips and Variations:

• For crispier skin, heat your oven to 425°F while the potatoes are microwaving, then transfer them to the oven to roast until the skin is dry and crispy.
• If you want the skin to stay soft, wrap the potato in plastic wrap before microwaving. This will prevent the skin from drying out.
• You can also add a little water to the bottom of the dish to prevent the potato from drying out.
• For red and yellow potatoes, reduce the microwaving time to 3 to 4 minutes per side, with additional 1-minute bursts as needed.
• Get creative with your toppings! Classic options include sour cream, cheddar, crumbled bacon, and chives, but you can also try chili and shredded cheese, pulled pork with barbecue sauce, or pico de gallo and black beans.

Storage and Reheating:

Microwaved baked potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them directly on an oven rack in a 325°F oven until warmed through, or simply pop them in the microwave until warm.

How long does a microwaved potato take to cook?

The cooking time for a microwaved potato depends on the number of potatoes being cooked, the size of the potatoes, and the wattage of the microwave.

For a single potato, it is recommended to microwave on full power for 5 minutes, then turn the potato over and microwave for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. For two or more potatoes, microwave on full power for 5 minutes, then turn the potatoes over and microwave for an additional 5 minutes. For red and yellow potatoes, reduce the microwaving time to 3 to 4 minutes per side, with additional 1-minute bursts as needed.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the microwave's wattage and the size of the potatoes. To ensure the potatoes are fully cooked, it is recommended to continue microwaving in 1-minute bursts as needed until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork or knife.

Additionally, it is important to poke holes in the potatoes before microwaving to allow steam to escape. This can be done by pricking the potatoes four or five times on each side with a fork.

Advantages of microwaving potatoes vs roasting

The Pampered Chef Micro-Cooker® is a great option for making quick, healthy, and easy meals and side dishes. It can be used to cook a variety of foods, including rice, pasta, vegetables, and potatoes.

When it comes to cooking potatoes, there are several advantages to using a microwave instead of roasting them in an oven. Here are some benefits of microwaving potatoes:

Speed and Convenience

Microwaving potatoes is a faster and more convenient option compared to roasting. It can significantly reduce the cooking time, especially when compared to baking potatoes in an oven, which can take up to an hour. With a microwave, you can have delicious, tender potatoes ready in just a few minutes. This makes it a great choice when you're short on time or looking for a quick side dish to complete your meal.

Nutrient Retention

Microwaving can help preserve nutrients in potatoes. Longer cooking methods, such as roasting, increase the chances of nutrient loss. By reducing the cooking time, microwaving can retain more of the vitamins and minerals found in potatoes. Additionally, using less water during microwaving can prevent nutrient loss and colour loss. This means your potatoes will not only be healthier but also retain their vibrant colours.

Easy Preparation

Preparing potatoes for microwaving is simple and requires minimal prep work. There is no need for extensive peeling or chopping, and you can even cook potatoes with the skin on. This saves time and effort, especially when compared to the multiple steps involved in roasting, such as peeling, chopping, and seasoning.

Versatility

Microwaved potatoes can be used in a variety of dishes. After microwaving, you can easily turn them into mashed potatoes, add seasonings and toppings, or finish them off in an oven or air fryer for a crispy texture. This versatility allows you to customise your potatoes according to your preferences or the requirements of your recipe.

No Mess

Microwaving potatoes can also reduce the mess and cleanup time compared to roasting. There is no need for large pots of boiling water or greasy baking trays. Simply place your potatoes in a microwave-safe dish, cover them, and cook. This makes microwaving an ideal choice if you want to avoid a lot of cleanup after your meal.

While roasting potatoes in an oven has its advantages, such as crispy skin, microwaving offers a faster, more convenient, and nutritious option. It is an excellent choice for busy individuals, families, or anyone looking for a quick and healthy side dish to complement their meals.

Frequently asked questions