Baked Potatoes and Baked Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients

This technique card does not require a separate ingredient list.

Instructions

1. Scrub baking potatoes or sweet potatoes thoroughly with a brush. Pat dry dry. If desired, for soft skins, rub with shortening, margarine, or butter; prick potatoes with a fork. (Or, if desired, skip rubbing skins.) Prick potatoes; wrap each in foil.)
2. Bake in a 425° oven for 40 to 60 minutes (in a 350° oven for 70 to 80 minutes) or till tender. When done, roll each potato gently under your hand. Cut a crisscross in each top with a knife. Press in and up on the ends of each potato.
3. Microwave directions: Scrub 6- to 8-ounce baking or sweet potatoes. Pat dry and prick. Do not rub with shortening, margarine, or butter. On a plate, arrange potatoes spoke fashion. Microwave, uncovered, on 100% power (high) till tender. Allow 5 to 7 minutes for 1 potato, 7 to 9 minutes for 2 potatoes, or 13 to 16 minutes for 4 potatoes, rearranging and turning potatoes over once. Let stand 5 minutes. Continue as above.
4. Grill directions: Scrub baking potatoes or sweet potatoes. Pat dry. If desired, for soft skins, rub potatoes with shortening, margarine, or butter. Prick potatoes. Wrap each potato in a 7-inch square of heavy foil. Grill potatoes on an uncovered grill directly over medium-slow coals for 1 to 2 hours or till tender. Continue as above.