How to Bake a Potato

By eHow Food & Drink Editor

Rate: (15 Ratings)

Baked potatoes have long been an American favorite at dinner time. Loaded with complex carbohydrates and having few calories, they are an easy and nutritious addition to any recipe. Whether loaded with sour cream, butter and chives or served plain, these simple guidelines will ensure a delicious spud every time.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • 4 large potatoes
  • Oven
  • Cooking oil
  • Salt
  • Bristle brush
  • Sink
  • Fork
  • Medium-sized bowl
  • Stainer
  • Baking sheet
Step1
Choose quality potatoes when preparing your meal. (Russet potatoes are said to be the best for baking.) Make sure the spuds are free of bruises or sprouts before you buy them.
Step2
Prepare to wash the potatoes by placing them into a strainer in your sink.
Step3
Wash your potatoes thoroughly in cold water while scrubbing them with a stiff bristle brush.
Step4
Poke each potato 8 to 12 times using a fork. Make sure that the holes are evenly spread to ensure even cooking.
Step5
Pour a small amount of cooking oil into a bowl. Make sure the bowl is large enough to hold at least 1 potato.
Step6
Coat each potato with cooking oil.
Step7
Place the finished potatoes onto a tray for salting. Then salt them lightly with regular salt or sea salt.
Step8
Arrange potatoes on your oven rack directly over a baking sheet to prevent drips.
Step9
Cook 4 large potatoes for 1 hour at 350 degrees F. Make sure spuds are soft with crispy skin before taking them out of oven.
Step10
Allow potatoes to cool for 7 to 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Warnings

  • Create an easy opening by forking a line down the center of each potato.
  • Extend your cooking time 15 minutes for more than 4 potatoes.
  • Microwaving your spud instead of baking it depletes vital nutrients.

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eHow Article: How to Bake a Potato

eHow Food & Drink Editor

eHow Food & Drink Editor

Category: Food & Drink

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