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Instructions:
1. Prep the Potatoes:
Wash and Scrub: Start by thoroughly washing and scrubbing the potatoes to remove any dirt. Since you’ll be leaving the skin on, you want it clean.
Dry Them Well: After washing, pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. The drier the skin, the crispier it will get in the oven!
2. Prick the Potatoes:
Poke the Potatoes: Use a fork to prick each potato a few times (about 6-8 times) on all sides. This allows steam to escape while baking, preventing the potatoes from bursting in the oven.
3. Coat for Crispy Skin:
Oil and Season: Drizzle olive oil over each potato and rub it in with your hands to coat the entire surface. This step is essential for crispy skin! Sprinkle the potatoes with sea salt (and any other seasonings you like—garlic powder or onion powder are excellent choices).
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps achieve that perfectly crispy skin.
Place Directly on the Rack: Instead of using a baking sheet, place the oiled and salted potatoes directly on the oven rack. This allows the heat to circulate all around the potatoes, resulting in crispy skin.
Bake for 45-60 Minutes: Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. The skin should be golden brown and crispy, and the flesh inside should be soft and fluffy. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork or skewer into the potato—it should go in easily.
5. Optional Extra Crispiness:
Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you want your potatoes even crispier, once they’re done baking, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t burn, but this extra step can give you that extra crispy layer on the skin.
Double Bake Method (Optional): For an extra crispy texture, you can cut the potato in half after baking, scoop out some of the flesh, and return the potato halves to the oven, flesh side up. Drizzle with more oil and season, then bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, remove them from the oven. Cut a slit in the top of each potato, fluff the insides with a fork, and add your favorite toppings. Classic options include butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, bacon bits, or a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper.
Tips for Success:
Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are your best bet for crispy skin and a fluffy interior. Their starchy texture makes them ideal for baking.
Don’t Wrap in Foil: Wrapping potatoes in foil traps steam and results in soggy skin, so avoid this if you want crispy results.
Seasoning Variations: You can experiment with different seasonings. Some people love adding a little smoked paprika or rosemary for a fragrant twist. Try your favorite herbs and spices!
Serve with Dips: Crispy baked potatoes are great served with a side of sour cream, chive butter, or any dip of your choice.
Now you have the perfect method to make crispy baked potatoes every time. Enjoy that perfect crunch with a soft and fluffy interior—it’s the best of both worlds!
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