How to Microwave Small Red Potatoes

Season the potatoes after cooking them.

Small red potatoes are sometimes referred to as new or baby potatoes because they are harvested when the potato is still small. Small red potatoes range from no more than 3 inches in diameter to 5 inches or more and have thin, red or purplish skins. These potatoes have firmer flesh than the standard baking potato, and they also have more moisture. Cooking red potatoes in the microwave is a quick way to get them ready for dinner. The moisture in the potatoes helps steam them so they come out fork tender.

Things You'll Need

• Vegetable brush
• Vegetable peeler
• Microwave-safe dish
• Toothpick
• Foil

Instructions

1. Wash the potatoes under lukewarm running water. Scrub lightly with a vegetable brush, removing any caked on soil or dirt.

2. Peel a 1-inch strip of skin from around the middle of the potato with a vegetable peeler. This strip allows steam to escape during cooking.

3. Place the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish. Set the dish inside the microwave.

4. Microwave the potatoes on high power. Set the timer for four minutes for one potato, then add two minutes for each additional potato you are cooking.

5. Check the potatoes once the cooking time is complete. Stick a toothpick or fork into the potato. It should be soft enough to easily pierce. If not, microwave in one minute increments until the potatoes are done.

6. Leave the potatoes in the microwave to stand for five minutes. The internal temperature during standing completes the cooking process. Alternately, cover the dish with aluminum foil and set on the counter. The potatoes remain warm for up to 30 minutes when covered.

Tips & Warnings

• Small red potatoes are firmer when microwaved than russet varieties. They are suitable for use in potato salads and other dishes that require cold, cooked potatoes. Because they retain their firmness, they are easily sliced after microwaving.

• Use oven mitts when handling the cooked potatoes to avoid burns and injuries.

References

• Utah State University: Vegetable Microwave Cooking Guide
• University of Tennesse: Your Microwave Oven: A Real Time Saver