Microwaving potatoes is a quick and easy way to cook them. However, some people recommend wrapping potatoes in plastic wrap or paper towels before microwaving. There are a few potential reasons for this:
Moisture Retention
One of the main purposes of wrapping a potato before microwaving is to help retain moisture as it cooks. The microwave can dry out foods very quickly. Wrapping the potato creates a barrier to keep some of the moisture from escaping as it heats up. This helps ensure the interior of the potato cooks through without drying out too much.
Even Heating
Wrapping a potato can also promote more even heating and cooking. The wrap essentially steams the potato in its own moisture rather than exposing the entire surface area directly to the drying effects of the microwave. This allows the heat to distribute from the outside in more gradually.
Reduced Hot Spots
Potatoes have a tendency to cook unevenly in the microwave, developing extremely hot spots in certain areas. Wrapping buffers the effects of these hot spots and prevents them from burning part of the potato. The wrap distributes the heat more evenly overall.
Benefits of Wrapping Potatoes in the Microwave
Wrapping potatoes before microwaving them can provide several benefits:
Soft, Fluffy Interior
The added moisture retention from wrapping keeps the inside of the potato tender and fluffy rather than dried out. This gives it a nicer texture.
Shorter Cooking Time
Wrapping speeds up cooking by creating a mini steam environment. This allows the potato to cook through in less time.
More Even Cooking
As mentioned, wrapping minimizes hot spots for more uniform cooking. There is less chance of ending up with raw areas or scorched areas.
Easier to Handle
The wrap protects your hands from getting burned when removing the hot potato from the microwave. It also contains any moisture released during cooking.
Better Skin Texture
The wrap prevents the potato skin from getting leathery, crisp, or overly dried out during microwaving. It stays tender and delicate.
Best Materials for Wrapping Potatoes
If you want to get the benefits of wrapped microwave potatoes, what are the best wrap materials to use? Here are some good options:
Paper Towels
Paper towels are thin, porous, and readily available. They provide a breathable layer of insulation to trap steam and promote even cooking. Make sure to wrap a few layers.
Plastic Wrap
Plastic wrap like Saran wrap clings tightly to the potato’s surface to maximize moisture retention. It’s a good choice for quicker cooking times. Make sure it’s labeled as microwave-safe.
Aluminum Foil
Foil is excellent for locking in steam and distributing heat evenly. But it can cause arcing or sparks in the microwave if it touches the sides, so wrap the foil around a paper towel first.
Wax Paper
Like paper towels, wax paper forms a breathable shield to moderate moisture loss. It’s a handy option if you don’t have other materials. Avoid recycled wax paper with metal flecks.
Damp Paper Towels
Wetting the paper towels adds even more moisture to the wrapped potato cooking environment. This maximizes the steaming effect for fast, tender results.
How to Wrap a Potato for the Microwave
If you want to try wrapping your potatoes, follow these simple steps:
Wash and Dry
Wash dirt off potatoes and dry them thoroughly with a towel. Any extra moisture on the outside can hinder the wrapping.
Pierce Skin
Use a fork to poke deep holes all over the potato. This allows steam to escape and prevents the potato from exploding.
Wrap
Choose your wrap material and cover the entire potato. For paper products, wrap 2-3 layers over the surface.
Microwave
Microwave on high for 5 minutes per potato. For larger potatoes, cook 10 minutes plus 3-5 minutes extra.
Let Stand
Let the potato stand wrapped for 5 minutes before unwrapping. This allows the insides to finish cooking through.
FAQs
Should you wrap sweet potatoes?
Yes, wrap sweet potatoes before microwaving too. The extra moisture helps counteract their naturally drier flesh.
Can you use a wet paper towel?
Wet paper towel wrapping speeds cooking by providing more steam. Just dampen it and wring out any excess before wrapping.
Do you need to poke holes in the potato if it’s wrapped?
Always poke holes even in wrapped potatoes to allow steam to vent and prevent bursting. The wrap isn’t a perfect seal.
Is it better to microwave potatoes whole or cubed?
Whole potatoes take longer but cook more evenly when wrapped. Cubed potatoes microwave faster but can cook unevenly.
Can you use the plastic produce bags from the grocery store?
Yes, as long as they are labeled microwave-safe. Reusing these bags is a quick and eco-friendly wrapping option.
The Bottom Line
Wrapping potatoes before microwaving them is a simple trick that can improve their texture and taste. The wrap keeps moisture in, distributes heat evenly, minimizes hot spots, and cuts down on cooking time. Paper towels, plastic wrap, aluminum foil, and wax paper all work well to create a little steam environment for tender, fluffy potato results. Give this easy microwave potato hack a try for your next quick spud fix!