Sweet potatoes are a popular staple in many Vietnamese dishes. However, preparing this type of potato can be a tricky task as it often causes an itchy sensation if not handled properly.
Join us as we explore four effective methods to peel sweet potatoes without experiencing any irritation.
1 Keep Your Hands and the Sweet Potato Dry While Peeling
It is important to avoid any contact with water during the peeling process, as this will immediately trigger an itchy sensation. To prevent this, refrain from washing the sweet potatoes after purchasing them. Instead, leave the dirt and dust on the potatoes, thoroughly dry your hands, and then proceed to peel the skin off.
Once the potatoes are peeled, soak them in water mixed with a little vinegar for about 10 minutes. Rinse them again with clean water, and they are ready to be used in your desired dish.
Keep your hands and the sweet potato dry during peeling
2 Use Plastic Gloves
Another effective way to “isolate” your hands from the potatoes is to wear plastic gloves. This simple precaution allows you to peel the potatoes without worrying about any irritating sensations.
It is recommended to use plastic gloves instead of cloth ones, as they can be conveniently discarded afterward, saving you the time and effort of washing them.
Using plastic gloves for protection
3 Pre-roast the Sweet Potatoes Before Peeling
A unique approach to avoiding the itch is to pre-roast the sweet potatoes before peeling them. Simply wrap the potatoes in aluminum foil and place them over a fire for a few minutes to burn off the resin.
Once the potatoes are slightly roasted, carefully open the foil and slowly peel off the skin. The roasting process neutralizes the itch-causing agents in the potatoes.
4 Parboil the Sweet Potatoes Before Peeling
Similar to pre-roasting, you can also parboil the sweet potatoes if you prefer not to roast them. Add 2 teaspoons of salt to 1 liter of water in a pot and bring it to a boil. Turn off the heat and carefully place the potatoes into the hot water. Quickly reduce the temperature by running cold water over the potatoes, and then proceed to peel them.
The high temperature of the water breaks down the resin in the potatoes, eliminating the itch-causing agents. This method ensures that you can peel the potatoes without any discomfort.
Parboiling the sweet potatoes before peeling
5 How to Make a Sweet Potato Poultice
Sweet potato poultices are known for their ability to draw out toxins, treat inflammation, and heal fractures. For best results, it is recommended to apply a ginger compress before using the sweet potato poultice.
- Peel the sweet potatoes (also known as cao môn, identified by their brown hairy skin, purple-tinged flesh, and white interior. Younger tubers are preferred over larger ones)
- Grind or mash the sweet potatoes and mix them with 5-10% of fresh ginger, also ground or mashed
- Add a small amount of rice flour to the mixture to reduce stickiness
- Spread the poultice onto a cloth, about 1.5 cm – 2 cm thick, and apply it directly to the affected area. Secure it in place with a bandage or cloth.
We hope that these tips will make it easier for home cooks to handle and peel sweet potatoes without experiencing any irritation. If you have any additional tips or tricks to share, please don’t hesitate to reach out and contribute to our growing collection of kitchen wisdom!
Uncovering the Nutrient Loss Caused by Mistakes in Storing and Processing Sweet Potatoes
Are you making any mistakes when it comes to the following three things?
How to store sweet potatoes for longer freshness
If you know how to store it properly, sweet potatoes can last a very long time without any loss in flavor.
Sweet Potato: A Superfood with Two Exceptions
Eating sweet potatoes at these two specific times is not advisable for the sake of your health.
Why did people in the past eat wild vegetables and sweet potatoes when they were healthy, but now they are more well-nourished but sicker?
Upon reflection of the common foods during times of poverty, it becomes evident that they are actually incredibly nutritious.
9 Common Mistakes in Cooking and Eating Sweet Potatoes
Below are 9 common mistakes when preparing and eating sweet potatoes that cause them to lose their nutrients and distinctive flavor.
