Just received a basket of fresh picked red and white potatoes from a farm in Erie PA, dirt still on. So I wash them befer storing?

Also whats the best way to store them and how long should they last?

Pamela731
  • 2624 views
  • 6 Comments

6 Comments

Linn October 16, 2012
Besides not washing and storing in cool dry, place, also prudent to remove any potatoes that have green areas. When potatoes get a sunburn, they turn green, a marker that toxic alkaloids have accumulated on the surface. I either discard these potatoes or use immediately peeling deeply to remove all the bad stuff.
 
mainecook61 October 15, 2012
Amen.
Unwashed, cool, dark, dry in their sacks----but also humid as to the surrounding air, as in a basement. That way, they will keep until March, when they will sprout, even in the dark.
 
mainesoul October 15, 2012
Do not wash the potatoes. They provide a protective coating. This is not just for potatoes but is a good rule in general for storing vegetables.
 
ChefOno October 15, 2012

…and away from your onions.

 

Voted the Best Reply!

Nozlee S. October 15, 2012
I wouldn't wash them before storing -- if they're very dirty, brush off the clods with a brush, but keep them totally dry.

They'll keep the longest in a cool, dry, dark environment. Imagine a root cellar!
 
ChefJune October 15, 2012
DEFINITELY don't wash them before storing. They need to be completely dry. That soft dirt is also protection from the "elements."
 
Recommended by Food52