Idaho baked potatoes

In the United States, potatoes represent a $4 billion industry. According to the Agriculture Resource Center of America, potatoes were the country's top vegetable crop in 2020, having been grown on more than 1 million acres of cropland (AgMRC). Idaho, followed by Washington, is the state in the United States that produces the most potatoes. According to AgMRC, the combined production of the two states accounted for more than half of the nation's crop in 2019. The atmosphere in Idaho makes it the perfect spot to cultivate potatoes, according to the Idaho Potato Museum. The lengthy growth season for potatoes in Idaho's mineral-rich volcanic soils is a result of the state's scorching summer days and chilly nights.

Although there are other simple potato recipes, including fried, mashed, scalloped, and roasted varieties, the traditional baked potato is the preferred method to eat the state's main crop. According to the Idaho Potato Commission, the finest preparation is to delicately puncture a plump Idaho potato with a fork to let steam escape, then lightly spray it with oil, generously sprinkle it with salt, and bake it for an hour at 425 degrees Fahrenheit. The finished potato will be fluffy, creamy, and crispy on the inside, ready for your preferred toppings.