Baked jacket potatoes, also known as baked potatoes, are a simple yet delicious dish that involves baking whole potatoes until their skin is crispy and the inside is soft and fluffy. They can be served with a variety of toppings to suit your taste. Here’s a straightforward recipe for making perfect baked jacket potatoes:

Baked Jacket Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes (or any starchy variety)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Optional toppings: butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped chives, bacon bits, etc.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Scrub the skin if needed.
   • Dry the potatoes with a clean towel.
   • Using a fork, pierce each potato several times. This allows steam to escape during baking.
3. Season the Potatoes:
   • Rub the potatoes with olive oil to coat them evenly.
   • Sprinkle the potatoes with salt, making sure to cover all sides.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
   • Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. For extra crispy skin, place them directly on the oven rack.
   • Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The skin should be crispy.
5. Serve:
   • Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
   • Make a lengthwise slit in each potato and gently squeeze the ends to open them up.
   • Fluff the insides with a fork and add your desired toppings.

Topping Ideas:

• Classic: Butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped chives
• Loaded: Bacon bits, cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions
• Healthy: Greek yogurt, chopped fresh herbs, sautéed spinach
• Mexican: Salsa, guacamole, black beans, shredded cheese
• BBQ: Pulled pork, coleslaw, barbecue sauce

Tips:

• Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their high starch content, which results in a fluffy interior.
• Oil and Salt: The oil helps the skin get crispy, and the salt adds flavor. You can also use melted butter instead of oil for extra flavor.
• Microwave Option: If you’re short on time, you can start cooking the potatoes in the microwave for 5-10 minutes before finishing them in the oven to get a crispy skin.
• Storage: Leftover baked potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their texture.

Baked jacket potatoes are versatile and can be customized with a wide range of toppings to suit any preference. They make a great side dish or a filling meal on their own. Enjoy!