The internal temperature to which a potato should be cooked depends on the method of cooking and the desired texture. Here are some common cooking methods and their corresponding internal temperatures for potatoes:
Baking/Roasting: To achieve a fluffy and fully cooked interior, bake or roast a whole potato until its internal temperature reaches around 205°F to 210°F (96°C to 99°C).
Boiling: When boiling potatoes for mashed potatoes or other recipes, cook them until they are fork-tender. This means the internal temperature should be around 210°F (99°C).
Frying: When frying potato pieces, like French fries or potato wedges, cook them until they are crispy and golden brown. The internal temperature can vary, but it's generally sufficient to ensure the potatoes are thoroughly cooked on the inside.
Always use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the potato before serving, especially for larger or thicker pieces. This will help ensure that the potato is properly cooked and safe to eat.