How to Bake a Potato

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.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 4 large potatoes
• Oven
• Cooking oil
• Salt
• Bristle brush
• Sink
• Fork
• Medium-sized bowl
• Stainer
• Baking sheet

1. 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.

2. Prepare to wash the potatoes by placing them into a strainer in your sink.

3. Wash your potatoes thoroughly in cold water while scrubbing them with a stiff bristle brush.

4. Poke each potato 8 to 12 times using a fork. Make sure that the holes are evenly spread to ensure even cooking.

5. Pour a small amount of cooking oil into a bowl. Make sure the bowl is large enough to hold at least 1 potato.

6. Coat each potato with cooking oil.

7. Place the finished potatoes onto a tray for salting. Then salt them lightly with regular salt or sea salt.

8. Arrange potatoes on your oven rack directly over a baking sheet to prevent drips.

9. 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.

10. 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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[KuanShiYin]

on 2/17/2009 I have always just wrapped them up in foil and thrown them in the oven. This is a great idea; thanks.