By Faith A microwaved baked potato can be a perfect choice if you need to get dinner on the table quickly. A microwave potato takes just five minutes to prepare while cooking several potatoes in parallel takes less than five minutes. This meal staple can be topped off with leftover chili or simply sauteed vegetables.
Over the centuries, potatoes have been a staple food in many countries. These root veggies have been an important part of many societies' diets for centuries.
Potatoes not only make a satisfying snack but are also easy to grow. Some people avoid potatoes because of low-carb diets. Baking potatoes can be part and parcel of a healthy, balanced diet.
Cooking More Than One Potato
Good old russet potatoes are the best. Although larger potatoes will cook faster, you can use any size. It is a good idea to cook multiple potatoes at once so that they cook at a similar rate. This is not a fussy technique. A smaller potato will take slightly longer to cook.
You Must Remember to Use
This method works well. Put potatoes in the microwave, and then hit "start." However, there's one thing to keep in mind: poke holes within the potato. Use a fork, and poke the potato at least four or five times on each side. These little holes allow steam to escape while the potato's cooking. Don't forget to poke! Your potato could explode in the microwave from all that steam. It's messy and can ruin your dinner.
Crisp up the Outside
This speedy method does have a downside. The skin isn't as crisp or roasted as baked potatoes. The potatoes can be eaten as is, although they are still good to eat. Once the potatoes are cooked through, transfer them into the oven until they become crispy.
Health Benefits
Despite the current trend of low-carb eating, there are many reasons for baked potatoes.
Reduces Inflammation
Baked potatoes are high in choline. Americans are not getting enough of this essential nutrient. According to recent research, insufficient choline may partly be responsible for inflammatory illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis. Baking potatoes can increase choline levels within your body and reduce inflammation.
Digestion
Baked potatoes have a high fiber content, which aids digestion. A high-fiber diet can help both diarrhea and constipation. People suffering from digestive problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome, may find baked potatoes particularly beneficial in managing their symptoms and controlling their digestion.
Weight Monitoring
Baked potatoes contain fiber, which aids with digestion. Vitamins A and B6 help to break down carbohydrates. This combination is very beneficial for weight management and weight reduction.
Heart Health
Nearly a third of Americans have higher cholesterol. This puts the person at risk of developing heart disease and stroke. Baked potatoes can be low in cholesterol and fat. They are also rich in potassium, which research has shown can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.
Serving Size
One medium-sized baked potato contains:
- Calories: 161
- Fat: Less than 1 Gram
- Sodium: 17 milligrams
- Carbohydrates 37 grams
- 4 grams of dietary fiber
- Protein: 4 grams
Baked potatoes provide low-fat, high-cholesterol carbohydrates and protein and are also very nutrient-dense. A potato has more potassium per serving than a banana. Some of the essential nutrients baked potatoes provide are:
- Potassium
- Calcium
- Vitamin C
- Iron
- Vitamin B6
- Magnesium
Potatoes contain a lot of carbs, but less than some starchy staples like pasta and rice. One small potato can contain approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates for those with diabetes.