Step 1

Clean the potatoes under running water using a scrub brush. Trim away any blemishes.

Step 2

Poke the potatoes 3-4 times about an inch deep using a small skewer, cake tester or fork. This important step helps steam to escape for even cooking.

Step 3

Put the potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and place in the microwave. Cook on full power for 10 to 12 minutes (see notes for other potatoes).

Step 4

Poke the potatoes with a fork to check they are tender. If not, cook longer in 1 minute increments until done.

Step 5

As the plate will be hot, use oven mitts to remove it from the oven. Similarly, use kitchen tongs to transfer the potatoes to serving plates.

Step 6

Carefully cut the potato open with a knife and fluff with a fork as desired. Add optional butter, sour cream, green onion/chives, salt and pepper to serve.