2 potatoes

Preparation Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to moderately hot 210 degrees celsius. Pierce potatoes all over with a fork; place directly on oven rack and bake 1 hour or until tender.

2. Prepare topping of your choice while the potatoes are baking.

3. Make one deep slash or a cross cut in each cooked potato. Squeeze gently to open; spoon on topping. Or, scoop out the centers, mash with topping; replace. Makes 2 servings.

Note: To microwave jacket potatoes, pierce all over with a fork. Wrap each one in a layer of absorbent paper and place directly on the turntable. Cook on High for 10 minutes. Leave, unopened, for 2 minutes.

Hint: reduce baking time in a conventional oven by 15 minutes simply by inserting a metal skewer through the center of each potato before placing it in the oven; the skewer is a most effective heat conductor. For crispy skins, brush with oil, sprinkle with salt before cooking.