Pomme de Terre au Four

1.Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2.Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat dry with a paper towel.

3.Poke each potato with a fork a few times to create steam vents.

4.Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

5.Place the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the preheated oven.

6.Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the skins are crispy.

7.Remove the potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.

8.Cut a cross into the top of each potato and gently squeeze the base to open.

9.Serve with sour cream and chopped chives, if desired.