How To Bake a Potato

Learning how to bake a potato is a skill that will serve you well. Baked potatoes are a tasty way to complement any lunch or dinner. A side dish that requires very little work for the cook. A baked potato bar is a perfect dinner option for picky kids.

Ingredients and Materials:
a. Baked potatoes only require actual potatoes but there are a few things you can add to spice it up. Russet potatoes are the best choice for baking. Choose potatoes that are close to the same size, are brown and firm.
b. Canola oil or olive oil (if desired)
c. Kosher salt or regular table salt (if desired)
d. Tin foil (if desired)

Instructions
a. Thoroughly wash the potatoes with hot water. Use a vegetable scrubbing brush or sponge to get all the dirt off the skin. Do not scrub the potato too hard or it will actually remove the skin.
b. Use a fork or knife to stab each potato all around. 4-6 stabs are adequate. This will allow the steam to escape.
c. You can choose to roll or brush the potato with cooking oil. Roll the coated potato in your choice of salt. The oil tends to make a softer skin, so avoid this step if you want a crispy skin.
d. You can choose to wrap each potato in tin foil. This also creates a soft skin.
e. Place the potatoes directly onto the oven rack in an oven that has been preheated to 350f. Ensure the potatoes are spaced apart to allow proper air circulation.
f. The potatoes should cook for at least an hour, depending on the size of the potatoes. To check to see if they are ready use a hot pad to remove a potato. Gently squeeze the potato. If it is soft it is done.

Potatoes can be enjoyed with just a little butter and salt or smothered with toppings. Popular toppings include sour cream, chives, bacon bits, chili and shredded cheese.

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