Master Recipe
Baked Potatoes
serves 4
NOTE: We found that no benefit or harm was done to the potatoes
by poking them with the tines of a fork before putting them in the
oven. Do use a fork to open the skin as soon as the potatoes come
out of the oven (see figures 1 and 2). Season with salt to taste and a pat of
butter. If you like, embellish with a dollop of sour cream,
crumbled bacon, grated or shredded cheese, or minced chives or
scallions.
4 medium russet potatoes (7 to 8 ounces each), scrubbed
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place potatoes on middle rack and bake until skewer glides easily through flesh, about 75 minutes.
2. Remove potatoes from oven and pierce with a fork to create a dotted X (see figure 1). Press in at ends of potato to push flesh up and out (see figure 2). Season as desired and serve immediately.