How to cook the perfect jacket potato

Cooking the perfect jacket potato is a cherished skill in British cuisine, resulting in a deliciously crispy skin and a fluffy, steaming interior. Here’s a comprehensive guide to achieving the ideal jacket potato.

Ingredients

• Large baking potatoes (Maris Piper or King Edward are perfect)
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Sea salt
• Optional toppings: butter, mature cheddar cheese, baked beans, sour cream, chives, coleslaw, bacon bits, etc.

Equipment

• Baking tray
• Fork or skewer
• Oven
• Pastry brush

Instructions

1. Choose the Right Potato

Select large, floury potatoes such as Maris Piper or King Edward. These varieties have the perfect texture for a jacket potato.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C)/Gas 6. Ensure the oven is fully preheated to ensure even cooking.

3. Wash and Dry the Potatoes

Scrub the potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt. Pat them thoroughly dry with a clean tea towel.

4. Prick the Potatoes

Prick each potato several times with a fork or skewer. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing them from bursting.

5. Coat with Oil and Salt

Brush the potatoes all over with olive oil or melted butter. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy skin. Sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt over the potatoes for added flavour and crunch.

6. Bake the Potatoes

Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking tray. Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the size of the potatoes. They’re done when the skins are crispy, and a skewer or sharp knife slides easily into the centre.

7. Check for Doneness

To check if your potatoes are done, gently squeeze them with an oven glove or tea towel. They should feel soft inside. If they’re not quite there, give them another 10 minutes and check again.

8. Finish with Optional Toppings

Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven. Let them cool slightly before handling. Cut a cross on the top of each potato, then squeeze the sides to open them up. Fluff up the interior with a fork and add your favourite toppings:

• Butter: A classic choice that melts beautifully into the fluffy potato.
• Mature Cheddar Cheese: For a rich, tangy flavour.
• Baked Beans: A hearty and warming option.
• Sour Cream and Chives: For a fresh and tangy twist.
• Coleslaw: Adds a crunchy, creamy contrast.
• Bacon Bits: For a savoury, crispy topping.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Serve your jacket potatoes hot, with your choice of toppings. They make a perfect meal on their own or a fantastic side dish.

Tips for Perfect Jacket Potatoes

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Floury varieties like Maris Piper or King Edward work best.
• Even Sizing: Use potatoes of similar size to ensure they cook evenly.
• Dry Well: Ensure the potatoes are completely dry before applying oil and salt.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Give each potato plenty of space in the oven to ensure even cooking and crisping.
• Use a Rack: Placing the potatoes directly on the oven rack helps crisp up the skin all around.

Follow these steps, and you'll be enjoying perfectly cooked jacket potatoes with a deliciously crispy skin and a light, fluffy interior every time.