Instructions: Preheat oven to 425F. Srub potatoes to remove all dirt then dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel. Prick the skin in a few places with a fork. Rub each potato with 1 tsp of the oil to coat evenly. Place the potatoes on an ungreased baking sheet in the middle of the oven.

Bake until tender when pierced with a knife, about 1 hour. The potatoes should be cooked through and slightly crisp on the outside.

If the baked potatoes are to be used as the base for stuffed potatoes or another potato dish, proceed as directed in those recipes. If serving immediately, grasp each potato with a potholder and cut it down the center lengthwise to reach halfway through its depth. Then pinch the sides together so pulp plumps in the middle and the steam is released. Serve at once, with the topping of your choice.

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