Microwave Sweet Potatoes Or Yams
Creamy, naturally sweet microwave-cooked sweet potatoes or yams with tender flesh, perfect as a wholesome side or snack, suitable for quick meals and health-conscious diets.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. medium sweet potatoes or yams ⓘ
Instructions
- Arrange the sweet potatoes or yams 1 inch apart on a microwave-safe plate or dish, piercing the skins to allow steam to escape.
- Microwave the potatoes until a fork inserted comes out with a little resistance, approximately 10 minutes depending on size and microwave power.
- Remove the potatoes from the microwave and wrap them into foil to keep warm until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose sweet potatoes or yams that are similar in size for even cooking. If you're short on time, you can slice the potatoes in half lengthwise to reduce microwave time. For added flavor, consider sprinkling them with a pinch of salt or cinnamon after cooking. These sweet potatoes can also be used in American recipes, making them versatile for various dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet potatoes or yams as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They pair beautifully with Dot'S Sweet And Sour Meatballs or can be enjoyed as a simple, healthy snack. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad on the side, like Cherry Cherry Salad, to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sweet potatoes or yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave them for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also wrap them in foil and place them in a warm oven for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Sweet Potatoes Or Yams contains roughly 948 calories, with 8g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (55% of the Daily Value), potassium (24% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 971mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook multiple sweet potatoes at once in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook multiple sweet potatoes at once, but make sure they are arranged in a single layer and have space between them to ensure even cooking. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly, checking for doneness with a fork.
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done cooking?
The sweet potatoes are done when a fork can be inserted with slight resistance. Start checking around the 8-10 minute mark, as cooking times can vary based on the size of the potatoes and the wattage of your microwave.
Can I add toppings to my sweet potatoes after cooking?
Absolutely! Once cooked, you can top your sweet potatoes or yams with a variety of toppings such as butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, or even a dollop of Unsweetened Jelly for a sweet twist. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).