Baked Potatoes

4 medium baking potatoes
shortening, butter, or margarine (potional)

Scrub potatoes thoroughly with a brush; pat dry. Prick potatoes with a fork. (If desired, for soft skins, run potatoes with shortening or wrap each potato in foil)

Bake potatoes in a 450 F oven 40 to 60 minutes (or 350 F oven for 70 - 80) or until tender. Roll each potato gently under your hand. Using a knife cut an X in each top. Press in and up ends of each potato

Baked Sweet Potatoes: Prepare as above, except use sweet potatoes.