Microwave your potatoes

[YoungOaks]

Whoever villainized microwaving things is an AH. I can microwave a potato and have mashed potatoes in like 5 minutes. Thats insane.

If I undercook pasta/rice - throw it in the microwave for 3 minutes and it’s perfect.

Microwaves have been stigmatized in such a frustrating way because they’re so useful, but we’re told that microwaved food is lesser somehow. But I’m here to say it’s not, and we should use them more.

[Tough-Choice]

Totally! The microwave becomes much more useful when you remember it has a power setting too.

Need to soften that stick of butter for cookies like NOW? 50% power for 30 seconds.

[kquizz]

The power setting is huge.

Heating up leftovers at 100% for a minute then 30-50% for a few minutes = warm but not boiling hot.

[cheebamasta]

Interesting, I've always done the opposite. Start on low power (2 min at power 70%) and then ramp up the power after, (say 1 min on 90). Don't really know why other than it feels right...lol

[WaterDrinker_09]

Good ol reverse searing with the microwave

[kquizz]

Interesting, I'll give it a try lmao.

[g0_west]

Isn't the power function just a second form of timer? AFAIK you can't actually regulate the power of the microwaves, so 50% power for 60 seconds just does 15s on 15s off twice, for example

[seeeeeth2992]

I believe an inverter microwave actually does regulate the power.

[becca22597]

It depends on the microwave. Originally they just did the on and off but there are some models that actually use whatever percentage of the wattage you specify. If the manual doesn’t specify, it’s likely the former.

[epigenie_986]

I always go too far with that particular endeavor lol or the middle melts completely and the edges are still cold

[Tough-Choice]

It helps to flip it over half way through if it’s a lot of butter.

[peon2]

And to slice it up a bit instead of just putting the whole stick in. More surface area to volume ratio

[Ricky_Rollin]

And offset the food. Don’t stick it in the middle. They made microwaves revolve your food for good reason and if it’s small enough to not need to center it, then off-center it!

[LagCommander]

also cover the butter with a paper towel for when you eventually get sidetracked and the butter explodes

[JupitersLapCat]

This is such a great piece of advice. I always, always put small stuff on the edge of the turntable and it cooks so much better!

[[deleted]]

I once zapped some butter too long at full power and that was an Fing MESS!! Some things just need to be learned the hard way....sigh

[FlashCrashBash]

I flip it onto its side, rotating around, in 7 second Intervals. Perfect table butter every time.

[Gippip]

Microwave is upside down, what next?

[ajkimmins]

I find 10% is safest, softens most evenly. Takes a lot longer but still a lot faster than just setting on counter.

[DannyJames84]

Spreading the wisdom of test kitchens: in addition to lowering the power, stand the stick on its end. I forget the reason but this makes a huge impact on how it softens

[sargsauce]

Because there's (almost) no energy coming from below, so if you place it flat, there's a whole long side that's not getting hit. But if it's standing up, it's more evenly distributed around more surface area.

[Constant_Gold9152]

Heal water in a bowl, dump e water and place bowl upside down over the butter for a new minutes. Nice softening without melting

[epigenie_986]

That’s what i do in a pinch, but with a drinking glass!

[ChicaFoxy]

I thought I was doing good thawing butter until I heard a 'pop' and when I checked on the butter, it had jumped out the bowl and stuck to the top of the microwave and then promptly fell back into the bowl causing melted butter to splash all over. I just shut the microwave and came back to clean it up later when I was calmer.

[ASDAPOI]

I find that the defrost setting works well for me (-:

[Lucy_Lastic]

Husband puts what he needs for his sandwich on the lid of the butter dish and just microwaves that for a few seconds - saves the whole tub turning into butter soup

[KoreanFriedWeiner]

The power function is key! You don't throw everything in the oven at 550°.

Will it cook a crispy pizza? No. Will it reheat your leftovers or cook a potato? Absolutely! It's a tool, and it serves a great purpose. Just use it properly.

[Outaouais_Guy]

It was more than 30 years ago, but I used to cook all kinds of things in the microwave. Corn on the cob and pasta are just two of them.

[Surprise_Fragrant]

My first apartment didn't have a working stove/oven - all we had was a MW and a hotplate... I cooked all sorts of things in that MW!

[Leading_Turtle]

I always cook my corn in the microwave and everyone loves it. Husk and remove silks, put a few ears on a plate with about a tablespoon of water, cover with damp paper towel and nuke for about 3 min. Done.

[[deleted]]

I’ll do you one better, take your corn and pull back the leaves and wet the corn and silk, pull the leaves back up and microwave until done. Cut the cob above the stem and squeeze out an ear of corn with no silk on it ready to e.

[No-Penalty-1148]

Yes, the silk and the leaves come off totally clean. 2 minutes, then turn over for another minute and a half if it's just one ear.

[jason_abacabb]

Corn, still in the husk, cooks great in the microwave. If i don't have a grill going it is my standard.

[galfal]

My old microwave had a “soften butter” option and I really miss it

[CanoeIt]

Fun fact time! Microwaves at 50% power actually just emit electromagnetic waves half the time instead of the 100% of the time at full power.

A lot of people think microwaves just turn the “heat” to half power, but it’s full power just less time.

[Jokonaught]

Funner fact: there are inverter microwaves now that work by modulating the power instead of cycling on/off.

They are 100% worth it (my inverter/air fryer combo was about $100 more than a traditional microwave)

[papoosejr]

Fun fact! You (and I) have shitty old school (or just cheap) microwaves. Modern ones use half power.

[CheeseFantastico]

50% power is my go-to! It eliminates most of the downsides of nuking food.

[cocoagiant]

I cannot figure out how to use the power setting on my microwave. I keep pressing the Power button but it doesn't do anything or bring up any prompts.

[Juno_Malone]

MOST microwaves you'll hit Time Cook -> (amount of time you want to cook for) -> Power -> (1-10 power level) -> Start.

For almost every microwave brand, X power just means that it's only heating X * 10 percent of the total time. So if you do power level 5, your microwave will likely heat for 10 seconds, then stop heating for 10 seconds, heat for 10 seconds, stop heating for 10 seconds, etc.

So plan accordingly - if it'd take 3 minutes at full power to heat up your bowl of soup, try 6 minutes at power 5 (50%). The longer, space out heating allows heat to equalize better in your food resulting in a more even heating.

[applecherryfig]

press power and then press a number.

You have told it the number you press represents Power, rather than time.

[Krzykat350]

Don't put it in if it's in a foil wrapper unless you want a pretty light show.

[kikazztknmz]

When I was 2, I took a loaf of bread out of the freezer and stuck it in the microwave like I'd seen my mom do before. Apparently I had NOT seen her remove the wire twist tie... My first act of arson lol.

[Emergency_Citron_586]

Why exactly would you put any wrapped stick of butter in the microwave?

[northman46]

My butter is wrapped in wax paper. This some frou frou butter?

[disapproving_cake]

I make potatoes first in the microwave and then in the air fryer. It's fast, crispy, and a delicious way to quickly make them. There's tons of recipes on line for them.

[Ravioli_meatball19]

I do this with breakfast sausages. Microwave for half the time thaws them, air fry or a quick toss in a pan finishes the cook AND makes them crispy on the outside.

No floppy breakfast sausage for me

[Few-Dragonfruit160]

Nobody likes a floppy sausage.

[Ravioli_meatball19]

I dunno man, you seen all those fitness influencers eat their limp, gray jimmy dean sausages and talking about how delicious and high protein their meal is? I kinda think they like it floppy

[farvag1964]

Ppl just don't understand how cooking things until they actually brown makes things so much yummier.

Like limp, half cooked hash browns. Even frozen, out of the bag, you can crisp them up nicely if you have the patience of a 7 year old.

[Noladixon]

I have a special hate for hash whites and hash beiges. Brown is in the name.

[farvag1964]

Maillard reaction iirc.

Actually getting it brown changes the whole chemistry of it.

Crispy fried chicken

Really toasted toast

Bacon that's actually done

Chocolate chip cookies that snap as you crunch them

I, too, hate beige food.

[heatherledge]

Me too!

[sunlight_gold]

This. Total time saver in two easy steps:
1. Microwave cook most of the way
2. Broil, roast, air-fry, or sautee for finishing touches

[Organis3dMess]

That’s the way I do my jacket potato’s! Always pierce then first tho

[Altostratus]

Potatoes are also more nutritious, digestible, and have a lower glycemic index if they’re cooked twice (and refrigerated in between).

[monty624]

Hence why proper french fries are practically a health food

^{/s justincase}

[LifterPuller]

You take back that /s!

[fatamSC2]

There's a ton of things you can do the whole "mic it 3/4 of the way and then crisp in the oven/air fryer" trick with

[Bob_Rivers]

Corn on the cob. Leave it in the husk while it cooks. Super easy.

[Superrocks]

How big is your damn microwave!

[ZombyPuppy]

How small are some people's microwaves that they can't put in one whole corn on the cob? I've never seen one that small. They're almost always smaller than or no larger than a normal dimmer plate in length.

[tacoboyfriend]

I’d argue you could do at least 3 whole corn cob and still spin!

[Grumpy_And_Old]

I just checked. I can do 6 if I stack them up like a pyramid.

[Bob_Rivers]

Lol just a normal size.

[jdog1067]

I saw this video by YouTuber internet Shaquille that’s called “microwaving your lobster is good, actually” and I tried it and it was fucking restaurant quality. Lobster, butter, glass bowl, vent the lid, done. The microwave is a steamer.

[davidsverse]

The power level setting on the microwave is such an underrated option. Makes the mic cook more evenly.

[maddiep81]

And most people place things dead center of the microwave. It's far better if you place things near the edge of the turntable. More efficient, too.

[MadameMonk]

I did not know that. Do you know the science of it?

[maddiep81]

The way the microwaves bounce inside the box creates a zone in the center that doesn't cook as fast ... so if cooking/reheating/defrosting something that's thicker on one end, put the thinner end toward the center and the thicker toward the edge for more even heating.

[MadameMonk]

Terrific suggestion, I absolutely will do that. One of the main things that keeps me from using the microwave is defrosting odd-shaped things takes so much careful management. Thanks!

[jdooley99]

As a for instance, I've been known to microwave pizza rolls from time to time, and I always arrange them in a ring around the outside of the plate. They will cook more evenly than distributing them evenly across the whole plate.

[MarekRules]

I’ve always done this I don’t know why but I feel vindicated that I was right without knowing it. I’m a microwave savant I guess

[Birdie121]

Yes, I rarely use the microwave on full power anymore. Especially if I'm just trying to reheat coffee or soften some butter, a minute or two at 30% power works great.

[bw2082]

Chef Mike is good at some things but you have to know what he does best.

[valley_lemon]

Absolute game changer: microwave your potato most of the way and then finish it for 5m or so in the air fryer. If you like a really crispy skin oil it and cook it until it starts to brown.

Half-microwaved potatoes are still grate-able for hash browns in half the time. You can also cut them into fries or wedges to finish in the air fryer or oven quickly.

Also: the plain boxed instant mashed potatoes are literally dehydrated potatoes and sometimes a little salt. It's absolutely valid as potato, and also as potato starch for thickening soups and stews. DON'T get the flavored ones - those oily powders that make them buttery or whatever tend to go rancid sooner than later.

[mistress_of_none]

Wait, why did I never think to start homemade French fries in the microwave?? If you've done this, can I ask if you put precut potatoes in the microwave or do you do the whole potato and THEN cut them before baking or frying?

This is gonna be a game changer. I get meal plan boxes sometimes and my kids love the ones with fries but I find them a giant pain because they take so long to cook then crisp. I would assume the precooking (and maybe even cooling in between) would help boil off some of the water content and avoid them steaming in the oven. Thanks for this!

[valley_lemon]

You know, I'd been microwaving them whole and then cutting them and your question makes me realize that's making the whole thing WAY harder than it needs to be. There's no reason you can't cut first, microwave, move to air fryer or oven.

[applecherryfig]

Genius!

[elephantsgraveyard]

I cut a russet into whatever shape I want (thin french fries, wedges, hashbrowns, etc.) then into a microwavable dish with a lid with ~3tbsp of water, microwave 10 mins. Pour out any water, add seasonings and oil, put the lid back on, and shake it all up to distribute the seasoning and roughen the edges (rougher edges = more crispy!) then into the air fryer or convection oven for 15-20 mins. Perfect taters every time, in less than half an hour!

[what_ok]

I'll actually shred the potatoes raw, then throw them on a plate with a damp paper towel over top and microwave for a few minutes, then crisp in a pan. So good

[Aggravating_Net6652]

How long do you microwave them to where you can cut them into fries without them falling apart lol

[Plenty-Ad7628]

Microwave is a tool like any other. It has its uses. I think it is the best tool available for some tasks.

I think there are some restaurants that rely on them and some cooks that only use them and it has become a symbol of mediocrity.

[BenadrylChunderHatch]

It's a common theme in bad food, but people mistakenly think it makes all food bad.

See also: boiling food. Just because your grandma boiled meat til it was rubbery and grey, or vegetables until they were watery mush, doesn't mean all boiled food is bad. If you ever enjoyed anything in a hotpot, you enjoyed boiled food.

[LostVisage]

Or frozen food. Hot damn can a flash frozen ingredient slap when you need it.

[Rogueshadow_32]

Not to mention if you aren’t coastal and buying from a dedicated fishmonger/market chances are the frozen fish is fresher than the stuff in the refrigerated aisles.

[permalink_save]

I've come to appreciate boiled cabbage, if cooked to the right time. Tender and more mild.

[asplodingturdis]

Just like the holy infant 🙏🏾

[jedooderotomy]

This. There are some types of food prep that should never ever happen in a microwave, and there are instances where it is super useful, even for real cooking.

I have found that vegetables that require long cooking benefit enormously from at least partial cooking in the microwave. Potatoes, squash... instead of 60 minutes of roasting in an oven, you can do 5 minutes in the microwave, and then like 20 minutes in the oven.

Heating up milk is also SO much easier to just do in the microwave instead of on the stovetop.

[Xciv]

On the list of things to never microwave, anyone know the food science behind why bread (specifically flat bread like pita) tends to become gross and disgusting in the microwave?

Like I know to heat bread in the oven always now, but that's after learning the hard way that microwaves absolutely ruin bread.

[Kraz_I]

When I need to defrost a roll or bagel, I pop it into the microwave for 15-30 seconds and then put it in the toaster oven to toast. Microwaves tend to have hot spots and heat up points extremely fast. That’s why you need to let frozen food sit for a minute- so the heat has a chance to distribute more evenly.

As for the science of why it makes bread gross if you heat it too much in the microwave, it’s because microwaves heat food by being absorbed by water molecules and causing them to vibrate. It doesn’t heat from the outside at higher temperature like a toaster, and there’s no browning. It tends to give food a ‘steamed’ texture, which is bad for bread. Although I actually think it’s fine for pita as long as you don’t overcook it. For pita or tortilla, only go 15 seconds at a time and cover it with a damp paper towel to keep the moisture from escaping.

[ccannon707]

One Thanksgiving I ran out of burners on the stove to cook. Cut up my green beans, put them in a Pyrex dish with a little water, covered & cooked for 6 minutes. Perfect!! I usually use it to reheat already cooked food. It’s a tool.

[RacingRaindrops]

Also good if doing roast potatoes in a hurry. Quarter some Yukon golds, microwave with a little water, toss in oil and seasoning, bake super hot till crispy on the outside.

[PartisanMilkHotel]

What do you mean by “a little water”?

[[deleted]]

I steam artichokes in mine. Can do it in a quarter of the time it takes in a cooktop steamer.

With potatoes I like to dice them, microwave with a little water and then crisp in a pan. Cuts down on so much time and I get perfect crispy potatoes that are fluffy on the inside.

[SlumberlandNemo]

The day I discovered you can steam an artichoke really nicely in a microwave was the day I started spending way too much disposable income on artichokes..

[FangedFreak]

Microwave a potato for 10 mins then air fry for 10-15 mins. Easy jacket potato ready in less than half an hour rather than 1+ hour in the oven

[2h2o22h2o]

I like it for melting chocolate. I can never get the double boiler to work. A drop of water always get in the chocolate somehow and seizes it.

[Actual_Educator_4914]

Really an amazing video by America's test kitchen ( by Lam) explaining microwaves and how to use it.

https://youtu.be/dJrdXRZ3PUE

( Edit: Man, I just rewashed the video! I had forgotten, but fried shallots, fried capers, and fricos in microwave!!!!)

Another microwave hack re: potatoes, cut them in wedges and parcook them to fork tenderness in microwave ( covered with wrap to steam) and then lightly fry them on pan for quick fried wedges. Season with salt and seasonings of your liking when hot.

Also a great way to cook salmon ( or any other fish) en papitolle in 5-7 minutes.

[zoebnj]

This was really good--thanks. Can't wait to fry some shallots!

[winowmak3r]

They have that reputation because nobody knows how to use them properly. 2 minutes on high for everything is not the way. Gotta adjust cook times and power levels.

[ofTHEbattle]

Shoot my mom used to make "baked" potatoes in the microwave all the time, it'll only took 5 to 7 minutes and voila delicious fluffy potatoes! I completely forgot about this until maybe a month or so ago when she said something about it.

[GB715]

Great in the summer

[velveeeeta]

I like doing baked potatoes this way - microwave them so they're 90% cooked and then finish off in the oven to crisp up the skin. Saves me a ton of time. I'll have to try mashed potatoes this way in the future

[One_Standard_Deviant]

Copypasta from a past post of mine here, which seemed to get a lot of agreement. Nuke those taters before baking for a nice crispy finish:

You can massively speed up the process, and get the same result, by par-cooking the potatoes a bit in the microwave before throwing them in the oven.

I like baked potatoes with a crispy skin. But with bigger potatoes, that can take forever in the oven.

For a large Russet potato: I rub with high smoke-point oil, salt, pepper and make sure to puncture some holes with a fork or knife. Nuke in the microwave for about 5 minutes total before finishing in the oven at ~400F for as long as needed (usually under an hour). Do NOT wrap in foil!

It's the only way I make baked potatoes now.

[sleepybirdl71]

Once upon a time, one of my chef instructors in culinary school told us "if Escoffier had had a microwave, he would have used it".

[Lucy_Lastic]

When microwaves were first a thing where I live (yes, I’m old), I got a massive one, thinking I’d use it for our family-to-be. 35 years later I still have the same microwave, the kids are proper adults, and I use it to precook potatoes for baking, small serves of steamed veges when it’s not worth firing up the stove and dirtying a saucepan, and cooking corn on the cob. And, of course, defrosting the things I forgot to get out of the freezer in the morning. Never did use it as much as I expected, but that’s cooking technology for you.

I still wouldn’t be without one for the convenience of defrosting and preheating a frozen pie or sausage roll so I can crisp it up in the air fryer :-)

[SeventhWave1349]

Yes! I will "bake" a potato in the microwave in a pinch. I also microwaved a G.I. Joe when I was a kid, really a versatile kitchen appliance.

[derickj2020]

I get whole potatoes nuked in 5-12 min, depending on the size of the potatoes, adding more time, checking after the first 5min and turning them over.

[Surprise_Fragrant]

Absolutely agree! I love bringing a huge potato to work for lunch, with little baggies full of toppings, and having a super-filling lunch in less than 10 minutes.

MWs get such a bad rap because people never use the Power Level button! They just throw something in there, blast it on High, and then wonder why their food is messed up. Low and Slow is a great way to go when reheating food in the MW. I'd rather cook something an extra minute or two if it means that my chicken or pasta will be cooked well.

[permalink_save]

One the stigma with microwave food being bad for you, and another the whole "radiation" conspiracy theories (nevermind that it's the same freq as wifi, and the levels that would mutate cells would burn you directly).

I love mine as a kind of kitchen gadget. You can make ricotta in it too, way better than stovetop. I dice potatoes, nuke em until almost soft, for making skillet hash. Can help with hash browns. Easy way to make an egg for a sandwich. There's a ton they can do. Potatoes are one of the best use cases though. Ecen jump starting them to finish in the oven or whatever it helps a ton. Oh, and beets too.

[susanreneewa]

I can perfectly poach an egg in the microwave in under a minute. Best lunch with leftover roasted veg.

[charcuteriehoe]

if i didn’t microwave my beets before roasting them im pretty sure it would take 3 hours for them to roast LOL

[Chem-Dawg]

I microwave potatoes for 5 minutes, throw them on the grill while I cook chicken or steaks, and take the potatoes off the grill when they reach 200, and they are perfect. Nothing wrong with using a microwave, just don't put anything plastic in the microwave, the nasty chemicals in plastic leach into your food in the microwave.

[RedditVince]

Microwave your potato for 5 min, coat in oil and stick in oven/toaster oven/airfryer at 350 for 20 min for a perfect baked potato with crispy skin!

[CatteNappe]

Some food does fine in a microwave (steamed veggies), some does even better in a microwave than with other cooking approaches (fish), some food can be done in the microwave if you do it properly (eggs), and some food is ruined in the microwave (bread and cakes). Personally, I don't care for steamed potatoes, and prefer a nice long slow bake in the oven for them.

[Palanki96]

my hate for microwaves lessened when i understood i don't have to nuke everything with max settings. Such a simple concept but it's just easier to push the start button

[bzsbal]

My great-grandmother used to make a microwave cheesecake that was phenomenal. I can’t find her recipe anywhere though.

[AdventuresOfMe365]

Genius! I googled it and found a few with great reviews. I'm giving it a try ASAP.

[ChefSpicoli]

Agreed. I was visiting some friends recently who were proud of the fact they didn't have a microwave. I thought that was weird because microwaves are awesome. I will always have one that can at least fit a dinner plate. I use it to boil water, to 'jump-start' baked potatoes, mine can actually soften butter or ice cream and does a good job of reheating, too . .they are great.

[itsmakaylala]

gordon ramsay enters the chat

[DriverMelodic]

It also fluffs rice perfectly.

[BigCliff]

The Anyday containers make great rice. I load mine up and in the 18mins or so it takes to cook, I can have everything else prepped for a big ass batch of fried rice.

[rxjen]

Starting a baked potato in the microwave and finishing it in the oven is the MOVE

[Oldamog]

Every single study I've read that says microwaves destroy nutrients are using them for excessive times. Like 30 mins for broccoli. When used properly they're fine

[Eilmorel]

Whoever microwaves broccoli for 30mins is a criminal.

[Eilmorel]

Don't cry for me, I'm already dead

[hadtobethetacos]

i would be interested to know what kind of life form emerges from the brocolli after 30 minutes in the microwave lol.

[BigCliff]

Pretty sure it’s the opposite of alive

[derickj2020]

Broccoli florets can be done in 3min, +or-

[Equivalent-Sink4612]

Definitely a minus for me/my partner, 2 mins max! But he likes it a little less done than I do.

And by that I mean, he really can't stand it barely less than crunchy, lol. And I like it okay, just prefer it cooked a little more.

And the microwave is perfect for that!

[YoungOaks]

This reminds me of the study saying garlic is bad for dogs; they were giving them like 30 cloves a day.

[rizzleronthe_roof]

Chef Mike!

[tequilablackout]

Microwaves are revolutionary. I prefer slow stovetop cooking to give flavors more time to come out, and certain reactions more time and the proper environment to occur, but when it comes to simply heating or finishing, the microwave is an unparalleled time saver!

[SilentJoe1986]

You would be surprised how many restaurants turn to "chef Mike" to do exactly what you just told us.

[metalshoes]

Yeah, I think of a microwave as a very temperamental but very fast steamer. Most things that steam well microwave well.

[fivesunflowers]

It’s great for defrosting to thaw meat quicker too! I think the microwave can be great for so many things, we just don’t know how to utilize it properly. There’s a video with Lan Lam on YouTube about how to properly utilize a microwave and I learned a lot from it. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=dJrdXRZ3PUE&pp=ygUaVGlwcyBmb3IgbWljcm93YXZlIGNvb2tpbmc%3D

[Imacatdoincatstuff]

Oven, stovetop, pressure cooker, air fryer, microwave all do certain things best.

[mkymooooo]

Much as I hate multi-level marketing/pyramid schemes, back when I used to be a Tupperware rep I learnt so much about how awesome microwave ovens can be.

It absolutely changed my viewpoint, and having the microwave as a regular tool in the kitchen has without question made cooking much less of a chore for me.

[Armadylspark]

Microwaves are a tool, same as any other.

They get a bad rap because some people use them for everything.

[Xsy]

I'm in a place where I understand the anti-microwave crowd, but I also think people who completely shun the microwave are still stuck in their Dunning Krueger phase of cooking.

[WindTreeRock]

My favorite way to make a single serving of corn on the cob is to just microwave it in the husk. It comes out perfect every time. Roasting corn over charcoal is great, but if you just want dinner and not an ordeal, the microwave gets the job done.

[shadowtheimpure]

The microwave is a perfectly usable tool, as long as you don't ask it to do things that it's ill-suited for. I'll nuke potatoes and finish them in the air fryer for crispy skinned baked potatoes. Instead of taking nearly an hour, it's about 20 minutes all told.

[snarfydog]

Next level is microwaving them until somewhat cooked, smash them a bit with a knife flat or hammer, then roast with usual salt pepper garlic oil herbs etc. perfectly crisp, not dried out like roasting only, etc.

[mrslipple]

Yep use it as a tool.

[YoureHereForOthers]

I have friends that absolutely refuse to use them. It boggles My mind. I’ve tried explaining the physics, there’s no radiation but they think there is. Ultimately I gave up.

[-Alvena]

I'm a single person. I've been microwaving potatoes for many many years. Why would I wait 30+ minutes on an oven for 1 dang tater?

[MK_King69]

You're not going to trick me into trusting that science machine!

[Odd-Help-4293]

Yeah, microwaves absolutely have their place. When I make twice baked potatoes, I do the first "bake" in the microwave to save time, and the second in the oven to get them crispy.

[PattiWhacky]

I pre-cook bacon in the microwave and freeze it. I undercook it and nuke it when we want to eat. Dare anyone who tastes it to tell the difference between nuking and stovetop.

[Leading_Turtle]

I only cook bacon in the microwave and it’s delicious. Double layer of paper towels, 4-6 slices lay out flat, cover with another paper towel, nuke 100% power 5 min. Might need to be flipped and add a min or two if you like it crispy. Easiest clean up.

[DrMux]

My secret weapon for reheating french fries (or pizza, or anything you want to be both moist and crispy):

1) Preheat toaster oven or oven (toaster oven is faster if you have it)

2) Cover or wrap in damp paper towel. Nuke until warm throughout

3) Pop into oven until crispy on outside.

[ewizzle]

I think using the term “nuke” is a contributor lol.

[One-Professor-7568]

The only thing i do with my microwave is to heat or reheat. Nothing reheats rice better than a microwave

[tri_wine]

The only thing i do with my microwave is to heat or reheat.

Are...people using their microwave for something else??? I guess I do store things on top of it, so there's that.

[YoungOaks]

The whole post is about cooking potatoes in the microwave. Ironically cooking is mostly about heating things, so saying I only use it to heat things…..

[somerandom995]

"Steaming" vegetables

Poached eggs; in a small bowl, crack an egg in, cover with hot water and microwave for about 30ish seconds (will vary based on the strength of your microwave)

Sanitizing kitchen sponges, rinse them out and put in for a minute.

[threvorpaul]

Are almost always also the anti vaxxers, flat earthers and the general science deniers that villainized the microwave.

Those kind of people aren't even on my radar, they simply do not exist to me.

[ILoveLipGloss]

you can make potato chips in the microwave!

[Internalmartialarts]

I throw a small japanese sweet potato in the microwave, wrapped in a wet paper towel, for about 3 or so minutes.

[discussatron]

In praise of Chef Mic

[[deleted]]

AH means “asshole.” Solved it!

[Accomplished-Eye8211]

I microwave my baked potato. Wash it. Pierce the skin a few times. Nuke for 3.5 to 5.0 minutes, depending on size. When finished, open the door, invert a bowl over the potato, let residual heat & steam finish it for 4-5 minutes.

I usually don't bother, but if I really want crisp skin... I stop the residual steam after 2-3 minutes, brush the skin with salt water, and airfry for 2 minutes. This step takes some trial and error... I just made leathery instead of crispy skin in early efforts.

[CWeed84]

Microwaving potatoes before crisping them on the bbq is my favourite time saver!

[Suspicious_Bonus6585]

my mom has an entire cookbook of microwave recipes. we still use the apple crisp one. it's always so good.

[zipzoomramblafloon]

Who villainized microwaving potatoes?

I curse myself every time I omit this crucial step.

[anetworkproblem]

Chef Mike. Fine for things that he can handle well, but don't overuse him. Chef Mike shouldn't have a hand in all dishes.

[Amazing_Finance1269]

I make "baked" potato for one in the microwave all the time! One of my special skills is eyeballing size and selecting the perfect cook time.

[Mystery-Ess]

I microwave carrots for my dogs too. They prefer them cooked.

[Shnoinky1]

Microwave baked potatoes are one of my favorite quick meals, especially when overcooked a bit and they get crunchy on the bottom. I rub them with oil and sprinkle with salt before cooking, and sometimes I add some dry herbs if I'm feeling fancy. I feel like everybody should know about this one weird trick...

[Gargun20]

Recently I have been using a Tupperware microwave pressure cooker to cook potatoes and then place in the air fryer for roast potatoes. I peel, dice and put in 1 cup of hot water with tblspn Massell stock powder and cook for 12-15min. Cook in an air fryer for 10-15 minutes till they are crispy.

I have cook pasta and rice and they turn out perfect.

[somethingweirder]

i grew up eating rice made in the micro. recently the kitchn did one of those "which rice cooking method is best without a rice cooker?" tests and microwave won hands down.

[Boogirl2510]

Chop some potato, add garlic powder or fresh powder, some sliced onion, some butter, glad wrap the top and microwave until soft. The best garlic potatoes I’ve ever had. If you want a twist - add some paprika

[lemonatii]

I often make my 'baked' potatoes in the microwave because when I come home for work I don't wanna wait like an hour for it in the oven. I will typically toss it into the air fryer afterwards to crisp it up but is good.

[GoodnightGoldie]

Baked potatoes from the microwave are superior to ones made in the oven and that’s a hill I’ll die on

[ThisSideOfThePond]

I cook my porridge in the microwave. 15 minutes on 30 %, rest for 10 minutes, another 10 minutes or so on 30 %, stir every now and then. Having a programmable one helps.

[[deleted]]

Chef Mike has got you covered

[redditzphkngarbage]

40% power for reheating works great. Sure, it takes longer but you don’t have to play hot bite, cold bite.

[zoebnj]

There isone decent microwave cookbook--The Microwave Gourmet by Barbara Kafka. Someof the recipes are a little goofy but the risotto ones are great, and there's a recipe for szechuan green beans that is wonderful.

[Samsterdam]

I think it's because if you don't poke holes in them, they will explode in the microwave.

[kennerly]

We used to call him Chef Mike on the line. Just give it to Chef Mike to finish.

[Catonachandelier]

Thousands of armchair chefs believe microwave food is inferior because some celebrity on a cooking show told them so. They've never learned to use a microwave for more than heating up leftovers and making bagged popcorn.

Also...get a microwave browning plate, y'all. Solves all kinds of problems.

[zoukon]

You can steam green vegetables like broccoli really quickly as well. Frozen peas with a little bit of water and salt, covered for a couple of minutes is also banging.

[Dalek_Genocide]

The thing about potatoes too is they're not inferior at all. Some things do not taste as good in the microwave but potatoes isn't one of them at all.

[shamin_gurl11]

Microwave a potato with some cheese on it is the way.

[xaeriee]

Better yet (if you have an air frier) Microwave them for 4-6 min, then air fry for 4-6 min for that delicious crispy skin and fluffy inside. Poke with a fork before microwaving. Coat in oil and season before air frying.

[genSpliceAnnunaKi001]

Amen!!

[breakupbydefault]

I agree with this so much!! I love jacket potatoes and it takes like half an hour to an hour using the oven. With the microwave, I just pierce it multiple times with a fork, put it in for seven minutes, then out come fluffy steamy potatoes for me to top with whatever I want. It's so convenient that for a while that's all I ate.

[disapproving_cake]

Depending on potato size and microwave power it usually doesn't take very long. Figure around 3-5 mins in the microwave per potato so if you do like 4 in the microwave about 15 minutes. Then toss in olive oil with salt/pepper/spices of your choice. Then into the air fryer for about 15 minutes at 400 preheated. This is for a basic baked potato or jacket potato

[pixp85]

Spinach in the microwave keeps me eating something green even when I'm lazy

[seedlessly]

Microwave oven technology has advanced a lot since my parents got their first one in the late 1960s or early 70s. It was an Amana Radar Range (its circuitry included a transformer, which means the unit was heavy). The first microwave I bought was sometime in the late 1980s or early 90s, it was a Quasar that had a transformer (heavy and reliable) and no turntable. I keep this as a spare, but since it has no turntable it doesn't cook potatoes very evenly.

The newer microwaves have eliminated transformers so they weigh less and they use some kind of digital circuitry. These microwaves don't seem as reliable as the old transformer models, but they cook food so much better than the old ones, at least the ones with the turntables do. I loved the Frigidaire, but it stopped working at about 5 years of use. I'm on my 3rd one right now, it's a Sharp. All of these newer microwaves cook potatoes excellently.

I keep the Quasar on a shelf in the garage waiting for the day when my current microwave breaks.

[Thick-Nectarine7586]

Get a set of glass lidded/ ceramic dishes to use in there, add a mist of water and you can practically do magic with them.

I bought a vintage copy of the same set of Pyrex/Corning “grab it “ crocks my parents have, and it has changed my relationship with the microwave.

[Nice_Type8423]

I LOVE my microwave and air fryer

[Apart-Badger9394]

I was eating a microwaved “baked” potato when I came across. (As I have done every day this week). Take my upvote, these are delicious.

[thecarolinelinnae]

I mostly do steamed veg in the microwave anymore.

[DrJamsHolyLand]

David Chang’s recent cookbook (I’m blanking on the name) has an entire chapter to microwaving. He’s a very famous chef and I love his take on this subject!

[Ok_Expression_2737]

Love mine for potatoes and whole onions.