Baking potatoes or yams in a toaster oven is a simple and delicious way to prepare a nutritious side dish or even a light meal. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you do it:
Ingredients:
- Potatoes or yams (or a combination of both)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper (optional)
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the toaster oven: Set your toaster oven to bake mode and preheat it to around 400°F (200°C). This temperature works well for baking potatoes and yams.
Clean and prepare the potatoes/yams: Wash the potatoes or yams thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Scrub them gently with a vegetable brush if needed. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
Prick the potatoes/yams: Use a fork to prick several holes in each potato or yam. This step is essential to allow steam to escape during baking and prevent them from bursting.
Oil and season (optional): For added flavor and texture, you can rub a little olive oil or vegetable oil over the surface of the potatoes or yams. Sprinkle some salt and pepper if desired.
Wrap in aluminum foil (optional): Wrapping the potatoes or yams in aluminum foil can help retain moisture and ensure even cooking. If you prefer a softer texture, wrap each potato or yam individually in aluminum foil.
Arrange in the toaster oven: Place the prepared potatoes or yams directly on the toaster oven's baking rack or on a baking sheet. If you wrapped them in foil, you can place them directly on the oven rack.
Bake the potatoes/yams: Place the potatoes or yams in the preheated toaster oven and bake them for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on their size and your desired doneness. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part; if it goes in easily, they are done.
Rest and serve: Once baked, remove the potatoes or yams from the toaster oven. If you wrapped them in foil, let them sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before unwrapping. Serve them as a side dish with your favorite toppings like butter, sour cream, cheese, or chives.
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the potatoes or yams. Larger or thicker ones may take longer to bake fully. Always adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a fork to check for doneness.
Enjoy your baked potatoes or yams from the toaster oven – they make a delightful and versatile addition to any meal!