Tips

Keep Potatoes Fresh for a Month with This Simple Trick

Many families buy potatoes in bulk for their convenience and affordability. However, not everyone knows the proper way to store potatoes to maintain their freshness and quality. Here, we will guide you through the ultimate potato storage techniques to keep your potatoes fresh and delicious for longer.

Administrator

3 May, 2024

Preserve Potatoes by Using an Apple

Did you know that placing an apple in a basket of potatoes can prevent them from sprouting? If you have potatoes on hand, avoid storing them in the refrigerator. Instead, place an apple in the basket and seal it. The results will amaze you!

By using this method, you can retain the nutritional value of your potatoes while extending their shelf life.

Take a few minutes weekly to check your potatoes for any signs of rot. If you find any, discard it immediately. This is because a single rotten potato can contaminate the rest.

Signs of potatoes that should be discarded:

1. Potatoes that have become green, soft, and slightly wilted. This discoloration occurs when potatoes are exposed to sunlight. If only a small portion of the potato is green, remove the green part before cooking.

2. Potatoes that have sprouted, along with a green skin and soft flesh. If the potato does not have a soft texture, and the sprouts haven’t turned green, remove the sprouts and cook the potato.

3. Mushy potatoes. If you notice a mushy texture, discard the potato and any paper that touched it.

Additional Storage Tips

Avoid washing potatoes before storing them. Moisture can cause potatoes to spoil. Keep them as dry as possible. If you find dirt on the potatoes, let it dry and use a toothbrush to gently remove it. Rinse before cooking.

While storing potatoes in the refrigerator, allow them to adjust to room temperature before cooking.

Cook cut potatoes immediately. If this isn’t possible, preserve them in cold water. This method extends their life for 2-3 days.

Avoid storing potatoes near fruits. Certain fruits such as apples, pears, and bananas release a chemical called ethylene. It accelerates the ripening process in fruits (notice how fruits tend to ripen faster when kept together), causing the potatoes to sprout.

However, if you plan on turning your potatoes into French fries, here’s a tip: wash them thoroughly, cut them into small pieces, blanch them in salted water, and then place them in a saucepan. Drain the water when it boils, allow the potatoes to dry in a colander, and freeze them in a container. Before frying, thaw the potatoes for 10 minutes. You’ll enjoy crispy French fries every time!

Source: Khỏe & Đẹp

Frequently asked questions

Keep potatoes away from direct sunlight and moisture. Store them in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or a basket in a cupboard. Avoid the refrigerator as it can affect their taste and texture. Check them weekly for any signs of rot and discard any that show signs of greening, softening, or sprouting.

Discard potatoes that have turned green, soft, and slightly wilted due to sun exposure. If only a small part is green, cut away that portion before cooking. Also, discard potatoes with sprouted, green skin, and soft flesh. If the potato is firm and the sprouts are not green, you can remove the sprouts and cook the potato.

Cook cut potatoes immediately. If you can’t cook them right away, place them in cold water, which will extend their life for 2-3 days. Always allow potatoes to adjust to room temperature before cooking if they’ve been stored in the refrigerator.

Let any dirt on the potatoes dry, then use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush to gently remove it. Rinse the potatoes just before cooking to avoid introducing moisture during storage, which can cause spoilage.

Yes, wash and cut the potatoes into your desired French fry shape, then blanch them in salted water. Drain the water and let the potatoes dry in a colander. Place them in a saucepan and freeze. When you’re ready to cook, thaw the potatoes for about 10 minutes before frying for crispy French fries.