Ingredients:
- 1 large russet potato (or any preferred variety)
- Olive oil (optional, for crispy skin)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Butter, sour cream, cheese, chives, or any other desired toppings
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potato:
- Wash the potato thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Use a scrub brush if necessary.
- Dry it with a towel.
- Pierce the potato several times (about 6-8 times) with a fork or knife to allow steam to escape during cooking. This prevents the potato from bursting in the microwave.
- Microwave Cooking:
- Place the potato on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave on high for 5 minutes.
- After 5 minutes, check if the potato is soft by piercing it with a fork. If it’s still firm, continue microwaving in 1-minute increments until tender. This could take a total of 7 to 10 minutes depending on the potato’s size and the microwave’s power.
- Optional: Crisp the Skin (if desired):
- If you like crispy skin, after microwaving, rub the potato with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Transfer it to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-10 minutes to crisp up the skin.
- Let it Rest:
- Allow the potato to cool for a minute after cooking. This makes it easier to handle.
- Cut a slit down the middle and gently squeeze the ends to fluff the inside with a fork.
- Add Toppings:
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Top with butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped chives, bacon bits, steamed broccoli, or any of your favorites!
Tips:
- Choose the right potato: Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their fluffy texture.
- Avoid Overcooking: Check for doneness frequently as microwaves can vary in power.
- Microwave Tip: If you’re cooking more than one potato, ensure they are similar in size for even cooking.
This Microwave Baked Potato is a quick and versatile dish that you can customize to your liking. Enjoy your delicious and fluffy baked po.