In many homes, potatoes are a mainstay due to their versatility. It can be hard to find the right time in a busy weeknight schedule to prepare potatoes. It’s easy to find quick and convenient ways to cook your potatoes. This post will discuss many ways to prepare potatoes so that, even with a hectic schedule, you can always count on a delicious and healthy supper.
The Nutritional Value Of Potatoes
The following are some reasons why you should include potatoes in your weeknight dinners:
- Rich Source Of Nutrients: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin C. They also contain potassium and dietary fiber.
- Energy Boosting: They contain complex carbohydrates, which are essential for sustained and sustained energy.
- A Versatile And Satisfying Ingredient: Because potatoes can be prepared in a number of different ways, they are an ideal addition to any meal.
Quick Potato Recipes
1. Microwave Cooking
If you’re pressed for time, the microwave is an excellent way to quickly cook potatoes.
Method:
- Potatoes Whole: Wash potatoes thoroughly, and poke several holes into them with a skewer. Place them onto a plate suitable for the microwave and cook on high 5-10 minutes. Once a knife can easily pass through, the potatoes are cooked.
- Sliced potato: Sliced the potatoes thinly. Place them in a microwavable dish, cover with a cover or plastic wrap, then microwave on high for about 5-7 minutes. Microwave high for 5 – 7 minutes. Stirring halfway through is a good idea to make sure the potatoes cook evenly.
Microwaving retains nutrients and is a great way to quickly prepare a meal.
2. Boiling
You can use boiling to make mashed potato salads and quick side dishes.
Method:
- Cut potatoes into uniform sizes and peel (optional) if you want to get consistent cooking.
- Place the potatoes in the pot and cover it with water. Add a pinch.
- Bring to a boil, then turn down the heat for 10-15 minutes until the potato is fork-tender.
- Drain and then use as needed.
This method is fast, versatile, and can be paired with many other dishes.
3. Roasting
Roasting potatoes brings them to life and adds a crispy, crunchy texture. This is a great way to make potatoes a family favorite.
Method:
- Preheat the oven to 425degF.
- Potatoes should be cut into small, equal pieces.
- Add salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you like to the potato pieces.
- Spread potatoes in a thin layer on the baking sheet.
- Roast for about 20-25 minutes. Rotate the pan halfway through.
Roasting takes minimal preparation, and you can do it while you are preparing the rest of your dinner.
4. Sauteing
Sauteing can be a simple way to produce crispy, flavorful potato fries with little effort.
Method:
- Wash potatoes and slice them thinly. You can also cut the potatoes into cubes.
- Spread the potatoes evenly.
- Stir the potatoes occasionally for 10 to 15 minutes until they become crispy.
You can flavor sauteed potatoes with different herbs and seasonings, making it a very versatile side dish.
5. Steaming
Steaming preserves most nutrients and flavor of potatoes while cooking them quickly.
Method:
- Potatoes should be washed and cut into small pieces.
- Place the potato chunks in a steamed basket over a pan of boiling hot water.
- Cover and steam potatoes for around 10-15 minutes until the potatoes become tender.
Steamed potatoes may be used to make salads, mashed, or eaten plain.
6. Instant Pot
Instant Pots allow you to cook potatoes in a hurry and with minimal supervision. This is perfect for those busy weeknights.
Method:
- Add 14 cups of water to the Instant Pot.
- Place the potatoes on the trivet in the pot.
- Set your Instant Pot for high pressure to cook potatoes on high for between 10 and 15 minutes, depending upon the size.
Instant pot is ideal for cooking potatoes to perfection in a short time with minimum effort.
Conclusion
These versatile potatoes are an excellent addition to any meal. And with the right method, they can even be made quickly on busy weeknights. There are numerous different ways to cook potatoes, such as sautéing or microwaving. Enjoy delicious, healthy potato dishes with these quick cooking techniques. No matter whether you’re cooking a side or main dish, potatoes make for a satisfying and easy part of weeknight dinners.