Enjoy these crispy and fluffy baked potatoes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Preheating ensures even cooking from the start.
Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry.
Dry potatoes help achieve a crispier skin.
Poke each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
This prevents the potatoes from bursting in the oven.
Place the potatoes on a baking tray and sprinkle with coarse salt.
For extra flavor, rub the potatoes with a bit of olive oil before salting.
Bake the potatoes in the oven for about 45 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Cooking time may vary depending on potato size; check periodically.
Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Cooling slightly makes them easier to handle.
Cut an X on the top of each potato and gently press the sides to open them up.
Use a towel or oven mitts to avoid burning your hands.
Add a dollop of butter and sour cream to each potato before serving.
Feel free to add additional toppings like chives or shredded cheese for extra flavor.