Expert reveals the secrets to the fluffiest yet crispiest jacket potato on national potato day

There is something about crispy roast potatoes, or homemade chips that hit the spot perfectly. Potatoes are one of the most of versatile foods, and can be added to a meal mashed, baked or fried.

Jacket potatoes are a firm favourite all year round, with searches for ‘how to make the perfect jacket potato’ up by 100% in the past 12 months.

You can have one for lunch or dinner, with beans, cheese, butter, garlic, the choice is endless. With the crisp, flavourful skin and the soft interior, it’s the ultimate comfort meal.

However, it can be difficult to get the perfect textured spud each time, especially if you are in a hurry.

With the 19^th August being National Potato Day, the experts at Wren Kitchens have shared the ultimate secrets to cooking the fluffiest jacket potato ever. 

1. Potato variety

Choose starchy or russet potatoes for the fluffiest texture. These types of potatoes have a high starch content and low moisture content, which helps create that desired light and fluffy texture.

2. Prep the potato

Wash and scrub the potato thoroughly under cold water, using a brush if needed to remove any dirt or debris from the skin.

3. Cooking secrets

Using just the oven to cook a jacket potato can take around 30-40 minutes, however there is a trick to reduce the cooking time but still have a crispy finish. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees and using a fork, prick the potato all over. This allows steam to escape during cooking and prevents them from bursting.Microwave it for 5 minutes and remove before rinsing the potato AGAIN and rubbing the skin with a little olive oil or melted butter. This step helps the skin crisp up and be full of flavour. Finally, bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes.

4. Check the texture

To ensure the perfect texture before switching off the oven, check the potato by gently squeezing the sides. It should give slightly when squeezed, and the skin should be crispy.

5. Finishing touches

Once the potato is cooked, carefully remove it from the oven. Use a sharp knife to make a lengthwise cut on the top, creating a pocket for your toppings. Whilst it’s warm, add in a knob of melted butter or a dash of warm milk, this will prevent the potato from becoming dense. However, be careful not to add too much as this can cause the texture to become sticky.You can also add other seasonings like black pepper, garlic powder, or herbs and your favourite toppings such as sour cream, chives, bacon or chili. Enjoy!

Darren Watts, Showroom Development and Design Director at Wren Kitchens says: “By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the fluffiest and most delicious potato dish.

“Cooking at a slightly lower temperature for a longer time ensures that the interior cooks thoroughly and creates a soft texture.

“Never chop vegetables without a chopping board either as you’ll most likely damage surfaces or yourself. 

“Have containers to store your different toppings and make sure creamy ingredients are stored in the fridge when you’re not using them.”

Check out more potato cooking tips here.

(Lead image: Renee Comet / National Cancer Institute / Wikimedia / Creative Commons)