Potatoes are a highly versatile ingredient and can be turned into many delicious dishes, from soups, perkedel (Indonesian potato patties), mashed potatoes, to savory baked goods. But what if you’ve already peeled the potatoes but haven’t had the chance to cook them yet? If not stored properly, peeled potatoes can turn grayish or even black. Besides looking unappetizing, their taste may also change. To keep them fresh and ready to cook anytime, you need to know how to store peeled potatoes properly. Let’s go over the tips below! 

Why Do Peeled Potatoes Turn Brown? 

When potatoes are peeled and exposed to air, a chemical reaction called oxidation occurs. The enzymes in the potato react with oxygen, causing the color to change. This is similar to what happens to apples or bananas when peeled. While it’s not harmful, discolored potatoes look less fresh and might not taste as good when cooked. 

How to Store Peeled Potatoes 

To keep your potatoes fresh even when not cooked right away, here are some easy storage methods you can try: 

1. Store in Cold Water

The most common and effective way to prevent oxidation is to soak the potatoes in cold water. Here’s how: 

• Place the peeled potatoes in a clean container. 
• Fill the container with cold water until the potatoes are fully submerged. 
• Cover the container and store it in the fridge. 
• The potatoes can stay fresh for up to 24 hours. 

Use clean, boiled water for better hygiene. Change the water if you need to store them for more than a day. 

2. Add a Little Vinegar or Lemon Juice

If you want your potatoes to stay white even longer, add a few drops of vinegar or lemon juice to the soaking water. The acid helps slow down the oxidation process. 

• Use a ratio of 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice per 1 liter of water. 
• Don’t add too much, as it can alter the taste of the potatoes. 

3. Use a Damp Cloth or Paper Towel (For Short-Term Storage)

If you only need to store peeled potatoes for 1–2 hours before cooking, wrap them in a damp paper towel or cloth and place them in a sealed container. This helps retain moisture and prevent discoloration for a short period. 

Read More: How Long Should You Boil Potatoes? Here’s the Ideal Time for Perfect Results

Things to Avoid Before Storing Peeled Potatoes 

Before storing peeled potatoes, here are a few things you should not do: 

• Don’t store peeled potatoes dry. This speeds up oxidation and causes the surface to turn brown faster. 
• Don’t freeze raw potatoes. Freezing raw potatoes can damage their texture, making them watery and grainy when cooked. 
• Don’t leave peeled potatoes at room temperature for too long. This can lead to bacterial growth and make the potatoes unsafe to eat. 

Make Your Potato Dishes Healthier and Creamier with FiberCreme! 

Now that you know how to store peeled potatoes properly, you can prep your ingredients in advance with ease. Cook them however you like, mashed, gratin, creamy soup, or roasted potatoes. 

For an extra creamy and healthy twist, try adding FiberCreme to your potato recipes! FiberCreme is a versatile creamer powder that can be used as a substitute for coconut milk or dairy. It’s high in fiber, low in sugar, and contains 0 mg of cholesterol, making it a healthier choice for everyday cooking. 

Let’s make creamy potato dishes without guilt! Find more healthy potato recipe ideas on Instagram @FiberCreme_TV and the Ellenka YouTube channel. Cook smarter, healthier, and more deliciously!