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Here are 10 tips for storing potatoes to keep them fresh for as long as possible
Potatoes need to be stored properly in order to last without spoiling.
Here are 10 tips for storing potatoes to keep them fresh for as long as possible.
10 tips for storing potatoes
1. Store in a cool area
The temperature has an effect on how long potatoes can be stored without going bad.
To avoid sprouting and rotting, store potatoes in a pantry, basement, or cellar where the temperature is cooler.
When the temperature is too warm, sugars in the potatoes will break down and release compounds that can alter the taste and even cause harm to your health.
2. Avoid exposure to light
Too much light can cause potatoes to turn green, which indicates the presence of solanine, a toxic chemical that can taste bitter and be harmful if consumed in large quantities.
3. Keep them well-ventilated
Storing potatoes tightly in plastic bags is not a good idea, as this does not allow for air circulation. Potatoes continue to breathe even after being harvested, and trapping moisture can cause them to become damp and eventually rot.
Put them in a basket with holes or a shallow bowl so that air can flow around the potatoes.
4. Do not rinse before storing
Potatoes are tuberous roots that grow in the soil and often still have dirt on their skins. However, resist the temptation to rinse or wash potatoes before storing them. Moisture promotes the growth of mold and bacteria that can cause rot.
5. Do not store in the fridge
Refrigerators are too cold and have too much moisture for storing potatoes safely. Too much moisture increases the rate of decomposition and can leave potatoes mushy.
The sugar content in potatoes increases when they are stored in cold temperatures for long periods of time. This in turn increases the amount of a chemical called acrylamide, which is a harmful substance that poses risk to your health
6. Keep them away from other produce
Never store potatoes with other fruits and vegetables, since ripening produce can release a gas called ethylene, which could cause potatoes to spoil faster.
7. Cure before storing
Curing potatoes about 2 weeks before storing can help extend their shelf life.
Curing involves storing raw potatoes at temperatures around 65 F with 85%-95% humidity levels. You can do this in an empty oven that is left slightly open, with a bowl of water and a heat source like a light bulb.
Curing allows the potato skin to harden and heals any damage caused during harvesting. Once cured, you can keep them in a cool, dry, dark place for months.
8. Peel or soak before storing
Peeled potatoes can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks if kept in an airtight container.
However, sliced potatoes can be kept in the fridge even longer if you vacuum seal or wrap them tightly in plastic so that they do not come into contact with air.
You can even soak peeled or sliced potatoes in water before putting them in the fridge to prevent browning. However, potatoes stored in water are best if cooked within a day
9. Freeze cooked potatoes
Raw potatoes do not freeze well because they become discolored and mushy when defrosted. However, cooked potatoes will keep in the freezer because cooking removes the enzymes that cause discoloration.
Cooked leftover potatoes can be stored in the freezer for up to a year if kept in an airtight container. When you are ready to use them, simply put them in the refrigerator overnight to defrost before heating.
10. Dehydrate potatoes before storing
Dehydrating potatoes is a great way to use and store leftover mashed potatoes without letting them go to waste.
Blend mashed potatoes to make a fine paste. Place them in a dehydrator in thin layers until completely dry and you are able to break them apart, which may take up to 36 hours. Once dried, put them in a food processor to make a powder. Store the powder in an airtight jar and add to your next batch of mashed potatoes.
What is the nutritional profile of potatoes?
Calories
86
Carbohydrates
20 g (grams)
Fiber
2 g
Protein
1.71 g
Vitamin C
7.4 mg (milligrams)
Vitamin K
2.2 µg (micrograms)
Vitamin B6
0.269 mg
Folate
9 µg
Potassium
328 mg
Choline
13.2 mg
Sodium
241 mg
Calcium
8 mg
Zinc
0.27 mg
Copper
0.167 mg
Manganese
0.14 mg
Phosphorus
40 mg
Magnesium
20 mg
What are the health benefits of potatoes?
Despite being high in carbs, potatoes are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The health benefits of potatoes include the following:
Reduces inflammation
Calcium and magnesium in potatoes can help relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis such as pain and inflammation. However, because of the high starch and carbohydrate content, potatoes can cause weight gain, which is risky for people with rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, they should be eaten in moderation.
Regulates high blood pressure
Potatoes contain vitamin C and fiber, which helps reduce cholesterol levels while improving blood sugar levels. Potassium in potatoes also causes vasodilation (dilation of blood vessels), which helps lower blood pressure.
Reduces the risk of kidney stones
Kidney stones, also known as renal calculi, are formed due to high levels of uric acid, iron, and calcium in the blood. Potatoes are a rich source of magnesium, which prevents the accumulation of calcium deposits in the kidneys.
Combats free radical damage
Red and russet potatoes are particularly rich in flavonoid antioxidants such as carotenes and zeaxanthin. These potent antioxidants can help protect cells from being damaged by free radicals, which can lead to oxidative stress that can lead to a wide range of diseases including cancer.
Promotes brain function
Choline is an essential nutrient found in potatoes that prevents chronic inflammation and helps with sleep, memory, and muscular function. Potassium in potatoes increases blood circulation to the brain, which is necessary for healthy brain function.
Reduces signs of skin aging
Regular topical application of potato juice on your skin can help improve skin health due to vitamin C and minerals such as phosphorus, zinc, and potassium.
