How to Microwave Yams

Yams are easy to cook in the microwave.

Yams make for a glorious and very healthy alternative to the boring old baked potato and are filling enough to stand on their own for a light lunch. You can make your yam dish even easier when you simply pop it in the microwave.

Things You'll Need

• Yam
• Microwave
• Plate
• Paper towels

Instructions

1. Leave the yam in its skin but wash it, scraping off any dirt with a stiff brush.

2. Pierce the skin of yam in several places using a small knife or fork.

3. Wrap the damp yam loosely in a wet paper towel or two, insuring it's fully covered.

4. Place the wrapped yam on a microwave-safe plate and zap away. Use 5 minutes on high power as a starting point for medium-sized yams. The time will vary based on your yam's size and your microwave's power.

5. Test for readiness by poking a fork into the yam. It should be soft but not too mushy. If it is not done, cook an additional 30 seconds, then check again. Repeat if needed.

Tips & Warnings

• After cooking, slice up the yam in thick slabs and sprinkle with generous amounts of curry, cumin and cayenne pepper.

• For a low-fat and healthier alternative to sour cream, use plain low fat yogurt mixed with some chives.

• Yams taste wonderful with equally thick slabs of Granny Smith apples.

• The curry and cumin will really smell up the workplace if you choose that option for lunch.

References

• Meals for You: Basic Microwave Yam