How to Bake a Potato With Baking Needles

Baked potatoes are a healthy alternative to French fries.

Knowing how to bake potatoes with the assistance of a baking needle can make the difference between a properly baked potato and a potato that is still raw. The baking needle softens the potato by producing holes that allow the moisture from the potato to escape while it's cooking. The needle also helps you check if the potato is finished or needs more time to cook.

Things You'll Need

• Cold water
• Washcloth
• ¼ cup of vegetable oil
• Pinch of salt
• Parchment paper

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees F. Wash the potato thoroughly with cold water.

2. Dry the potato with a washcloth, then use the baking needle to poke eight to 12 holes into the top of the potato. Make sure that the holes do not exceed the middle of the potato.

3. Coat the potato with vegetable oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt over it. Place the potato directly on the middle rack of the oven with the holes facing up. Put parchment paper on the lower rack to catch any dripping from the potato.

4. Bake the potato for an hour and 15 minutes or until the skin crisps. Take the baking needle and poke the potato; if the needle comes out clean, the potato is ready. If there is residue on the baking needle, put the potato back in the oven for five more minutes.

5. Slice open the potato and serve.

References

• Food Network: The Baked Potato Recipe
• All Recipes: Baked Potato Recipe