How long to microwave a sweet potato

Have you ever found yourself craving a nutritious and delicious sweet potato but don’t have the time to bake it for an hour? Maybe you’re in a rush, or you’re simply trying to whip up a quick side dish for dinner. The good news is that sweet potatoes can be easily cooked in the microwave, drastically reducing your prep time while still delivering that comforting, sweet flavor. But how long should you actually microwave a sweet potato for it to come out perfectly tender? Let’s dive into the details to get you on your way to enjoying this versatile vegetable.

Microwave a sweet potato for about 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the size.

To microwave a sweet potato effectively, start by washing it thoroughly to remove any dirt. Next, use a fork to poke several holes all over the skin; this allows steam to escape, preventing the potato from bursting. Place the sweet potato on a microwave-safe plate, and microwave it on high power. For a medium-sized sweet potato (about 5 ounces), start with 5 minutes and then check for doneness. If it isn’t tender enough, continue cooking in 1-minute increments until it reaches the desired softness. Larger sweet potatoes may require 7 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, let it sit for a few minutes before handling, as it will be very hot. After that, you can slice it open and add your favorite toppings or enjoy it plain.