## Master the Perfect Crispy Jacket Potato: Mary Berry’s Recipe & Topping Variations
Jacket potatoes: the ultimate comfort food, especially during colder months. But achieving that perfect balance of fluffy inside and crispy skin can be a culinary challenge. Fear not! We’re diving into Mary Berry’s recipe, ensuring your next batch of baked potatoes is nothing short of exceptional.
Mary Berry herself proclaims baked potatoes as the epitome of comfort food, perfect for satisfying even the largest of gatherings. This recipe offers a foundation for countless variations, transforming a simple spud into a gourmet delight. Get ready to explore the art of the perfectly baked potato, from preparation to innovative topping combinations.
Ingredients:
* 4 large baking potatoes, washed and thoroughly dried (thorough drying is crucial for that crispy skin!)
* 2 tablespoons milk (full-fat recommended for richness)
* Knob of butter (unsalted, for better flavor control)
* Olive oil, for drizzling (a high smoke point oil like extra virgin olive oil is best)
* 2 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley (for garnish)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste, always season generously!)
Topping Variations (choose one or combine for extra flair):
*
Bacon & Mushroom:
* 3 tablespoons basil pesto
* 75g coarsely grated Parmesan cheese
* 4 rashers bacon, diced
* 50g sliced button mushrooms
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
*
Spring Onion & Soured Cream:
* 75g grated mature cheddar cheese
* 4 spring onions, finely chopped
* 4 generous tablespoons soured cream
* Paprika, for dusting
*
Roasted Pepper & Goat Cheese:
* 2 large red peppers, roasted and halved (or use jarred chargrilled peppers for convenience)
* 1 tablespoon soft goat cheese
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
Method:
1.
Prep the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 220°C/200°C Fan/Gas Mark 7. The key to crispy skin is thoroughly drying the potatoes before baking. Scrub them clean, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel, and then prick them all over with a fork to prevent steam buildup.2.
Bake to Perfection:
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a fork easily pierces the center. Baking time will depend on the size of your potatoes; a skewer test is a great way to check for doneness.3.
Prepare the Filling:
While the potatoes bake, prepare your chosen topping. For the bacon and mushroom, fry the bacon until crispy, then add the mushrooms and cook until softened. For the spring onion and soured cream topping, gently sauté the spring onions in olive oil until softened. The pepper and goat cheese topping requires no cooking beyond simply chopping the peppers.4.
Assemble and Finish:
Once the potatoes are cooked, cut them in half lengthways and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about a ½ cm border of potato in the skin. Gently mash the potato flesh in a bowl, incorporating the milk and butter. Add your chosen topping and season well with salt and pepper. Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins.5.
Crisp and Brown:
Transfer the stuffed potatoes to a roasting tin. Top with Parmesan, cheddar, or a dusting of paprika depending on your filling. Drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness. Return to the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the skins are beautifully crisp.6.
Serve Immediately:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve piping hot. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!Tips for Extra Crispy Skins:
*
Proper Drying:
As mentioned earlier, thoroughly drying your potatoes is essential. Even a slightly damp potato will hinder crispiness.*
High Oven Temperature:
Baking at a higher temperature helps create a crispier skin.*
Direct Oven Rack Placement:
Avoid baking on a baking sheet; placing the potatoes directly on the oven rack allows for even heat circulation and crispier results.With Mary Berry’s guidance and these helpful tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of the perfect jacket potato. Experiment with different toppings and find your favorite combination! Enjoy!
