When you aren’t quite sure what side dish to make for your next meal, keep this option in mind: the humble baked potato. While it isn’t the fanciest dinner side dish or the most elaborately prepared kitchen staple, there’s no denying that a well-made baked potato sure is good.
Though its preparation is simple, it’s important to follow a few tips if you want to make a great baked spud. Do these things, and you will be well on your way.
Choose a Starchy Potato
The first step to making a delicious baked potato is, well, picking the right potato! You’ll want to make a starchy choice, which allows for the potato’s structure to hold up after being baked. Russett potatoes are a great choice here.
Wash Well
Part of the experience of eating a baked potato is enjoying its vitamin and nutrient-rich skin after it has been prepared in the oven. However, be careful and wash the skin well before making it, as these underground-growing tubers might be quite dirty when you buy them.
Poke Holes Before Baking
Finally, don’t make a tragic mistake and forget to poke holes in your potato before sticking it in the oven! Why? Well, it’s possible for the heat and moisture inside of the potato to build up and explode without poking escape holes in the spud. That’s definitely a kitchen faux pas!