Mastering the ultimate baked potato: A guide for every dinner table

Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They pair beautifully with meat, fish, and vegetables, though they are most commonly enjoyed as a snack. Since I made them for the first time, my family has repeatedly asked for them.

The potato is the undisputed king of vegetables. We consume a large amount, with the average Canadian eating around 91 kilograms of potatoes annually. They can be boiled, fried, stewed, or baked. Baked potatoes, in particular, are a real delight that can serve as a supplement to dinner or as a hearty snack.

If you're looking for a foolproof recipe for baked potatoes, you’re in the right place. Ever since the first time I prepared them, my family has been unable to get enough.

Baked potatoes are a popular accompaniment to meals. They complement meat, fish, and vegetables well, but they are just as delicious. Enjoy them guilt-free — they are low in calories. Baking minimizes the need for excessive fat, with just a small amount sufficient to achieve a crispy, golden crust.

Have a few leftover potatoes and unsure what to do with them? Try the recipe below. The type or variety of potato doesn’t matter — it succeeds every time. They taste reminiscent of the famed Belgian fries.

Preparing them is quick and easy. Peel the potatoes and slice them into half-moons. Before baking, soak them in cold water with a sprinkle of sugar. This simple step removes the excess starch, ensuring the potatoes turn crispy.

Pair them with a rich sauce made from creamy cheese to enhance their flavour. Add a touch of grated cheddar, smoked paprika, and green onions for a combination that rivals popular cheese chips in taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg of potatoes,
• 4 tablespoons of sunflower or canola oil,
• 1 teaspoon of salt,
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika,
• 1 teaspoon of Provence herbs,
• 1 teaspoon of granulated garlic,
• optionally: powdered cheddar, powdered onion.

Preparation:

1. Wash, peel, and cut the potatoes into half-moons.
2. Soak them in a mix of cold water and a little sugar. Leave for 5 minutes, then dry thoroughly with a paper towel.
3. Combine the oil and spices in a large bowl. Add the potatoes to the bowl and toss them with the marinade.
4. Place the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake in an oven preheated to 200°C (about 390°F), using both top and bottom heating, for 50-60 minutes until they turn golden brown.