Breakfast with a side of marketing gimmicks
By Kirsten Nunez Updated February 13, 2018
EC: What's the Deal with Microwavable Sweet Potatoes?
It’s no secret that our culture is all about quick and easy methods. The less effort a task requires, the better… right? Well, not always. For example, plastic-wrapped microwavable sweet potatoes have become standard items in many grocery stores. These individually wrapped spuds can be found nestled near the bare sweet potatoes, boasting higher price tags and shiny outfits. So when it comes to things like food preparation, techniques that seem the most convenient are sometimes the most questionable. Plus, one can’t help but wonder if they are full of marketing gimmicks designed by people who literally make them for a living. So let's talk about what's up with microwaving a sweet potato.
Typically, the packaging states that you can achieve a classic oven-baked taste by microwaving the sweet potato for a few minutes. The plastic wrap is supposed to enclose the steam to help the sweet potato cook. And you don’t even need to touch your oven.
But here’s the thing. Unless there is a magical potion infused in the wrap, what makes it different than plastic wrap that you already own? Nothing. The same result can be achieved with a normal sweet potato and normal plastic wrap; people have been doing it for years. Heck, you don’t even need plastic wrap. The same result can be achieved by wrapping the sweet potato in a damp paper towel or nothing at all.
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And then there is the debate of safety. Over the years, many have speculated the dangers of microwaving food in plastic containers made of potentially harmful chemicals. And while it’s still a touchy subject, some people simply don’t like the idea of microwaving plastic with their meals.
Despite your personal preferences on microwaves, plastic, and trash, there is a point to be made. You can wrap the sweet potato yourself. When you buy a pre-wrapped potato, you’re simply shelling out extra cash for the plastic and (perceived) convenience.
Ultimately, there’s nothing like actually baking a potato in the oven. It’s a pretty delicious trade-off for waiting another 30 minutes. Besides, skipping the pre-wrapped versions lets you show some love to the sweet potatoes who are comfortable in their own skin, just the way they are.
FAQs
It's really the best way. Microwaving sweet potatoes cuts down cook time by 45 to 55 minutes, and, according to a 2018 study, helps maintain the potato's nutritional value. All cooking methods cause foods to lose some of their nutrients, but the quicker your potato cooks, the more nutrients it will retain.
Are microwavable sweet potatoes healthy? ›
The sweet potato is finished cooking when the skin is soft and sinks in a bit when you touch it. If it's not soft after 5 minutes, put it back in the microwave for 30-second intervals until it's cooked through. Some of you may wonder if microwave sweet potatoes are still healthy for you. The short answer is yes!
What are microwave ready sweet potatoes? ›
Typically, the packaging states that you can achieve a classic oven-baked taste by microwaving the sweet potato for a few minutes. The plastic wrap is supposed to enclose the steam to help the sweet potato cook. And you don't even need to touch your oven.
Do you leave the plastic on microwavable sweet potatoes? ›
Sweet Potatoes:
- DO NOT remove or poke holes in the wrap.
- For one potato, microwave on HIGH for 8 minutes.
- For more than one potato, microwave on HIGH for 6 minutes per potato.
- Remove potato(es) from the microwave. *
- Carefully remove the wrap.
- Cut the sweet potato(es) open lengthwise.
There is no evidence that the special, breathable plastic wrap sold on 'microwaveable' potatoes transfers any residue or poses any adverse health concerns.
Are microwaved sweet potatoes high glycemic? ›
Glycemic indices calculated from these methods for steamed, baked and microwaved sweet potato flesh were 63 ± 3.6, 64 ± 4.3 and 66 ± 5.7, respectively, indicative of a moderate glycemic index food. However, dehydrated and raw sweet potato flesh had a low glycemic index (41 ± 4.0 and 32 ± 3.0, respectively).
Are microwave potatoes safe? ›
Yes - it's a good way to make a quick “baked” potato. Just wash it well and poke some fork holes in it.
Does microwaving sweet potatoes lower glycemic index? ›
They reported that steamed sweet potato has a GI of 63, while baking raises the GI to 64 and microwaving increases it to 66.
Why microwave potatoes before baking? ›
While microwaving to completely cook the potato will result in a soft and mealy Russet, cooking in the microwave for just 5 to 6 minutes before transferring it to the oven will retain the potato's original texture.
Why are microwave potatoes green? ›
According to the University of Idaho Cooperative Extension Service, "Potato tubers are specialized stems of a potato plant, and tubers that are exposed to light, will naturally turn green. The green is nothing more than chlorophyll, a harmless compound found in all green plants.
It's really the best way. Microwaving sweet potatoes cuts down cook time by 45 to 55 minutes, and, according to a 2018 study, helps maintain the potato's nutritional value. All cooking methods cause foods to lose some of their nutrients, but the quicker your potato cooks, the more nutrients it will retain.
Can I put microwavable sweet potatoes in the oven? ›
Place the microwaved potatoes directly on the oven rack. Broil until the skin is dry and crisp, about 6 minutes. Serve the potatoes.
What's the difference between a sweet potato and a yam? ›
Yams and sweet potatoes differ in flavor and appearance, and they are not related. Sweet potatoes are in the morning glory family, while yams belong to the lily family. Yams aren't as sweet as sweet potatoes, and they are starchier and drier. Their texture and flavor are more similar to potatoes or yuca.
Why are sweet potatoes wrapped in plastic? ›
Shrink-wrapping adds value to fresh-market sweet potatoes by enhancing appearance, reducing weight loss and allowing for individual labeling.
Is microwaving plastic wrap bad? ›
The USDA says plastic wrap is actually safe to use in the microwave, as long as it's labeled microwave-safe. More importantly, they recommend that the plastic wrap not touch the actual food. So what does this mean?
Why do restaurants wrap potatoes in foil? ›
First of all, the original reason restaurants did this was to dress up the lowly potato and to hide any defects or bruises. So gold and aluminum foil sheets were painstakingly used to punish dishwashers and cooks who had some extra time on their hands… just my theory. First reason… the potato is around 80% water.
Are bagged sweet potato fries healthy? ›
So, if you're wondering if sweet potato fries are healthy, the answer is a resounding yes. Sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, fibre, and minerals, making them an excellent addition to your dinner.
What sweet potato is the healthiest? ›
Purple sweet potatoes are a good source of beta-carotene but are an even richer source of anthocyanin pigments, which act as antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and boost your immune system. Purple sweet potatoes have about three times more anthocyanins than the average blueberry.
Are packaged sweet potato fries healthy? ›
"With very similar nutrient profiles and the fact that deep frying either type of potato essentially makes both equally unhealthy, there's no real health benefit to choosing sweet potato fries over regular ones," adds Willingham.
