Sweet potatoes are an incredibly nutritious and versatile root vegetable. With their sweet flavor and moist texture, they’re a favorite of many. However, if you’re not careful, sweet potatoes can spoil quickly. That’s why it’s important to store them properly. Here are some tips on how to store sweet potatoes to help them last as long as possible.
Purchasing Sweet Potatoes
When you’re in the produce section of the grocery store, take the time to inspect the sweet potatoes for any signs of damage. Make sure the skin is not wrinkled or cracked, as this can be a sign of mold or other damage. Also, check for any soft spots, bruises, or discoloration. If you find any of these, pass them up and look for a better one.
Storing Sweet Potatoes in the Fridge
If you plan on using the sweet potatoes within a week or two, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator. This will help to slow down the spoiling process. To do this, you should place the sweet potatoes in a plastic bag or container with a tight-fitting lid. Once they’re in the bag or container, make sure to punch a few holes in it to allow air to circulate. Keep the bag or container in the crisper drawer to help keep them fresh.
Storing Sweet Potatoes in the Pantry
If you plan on using the sweet potatoes in the next few weeks, you can store them in the pantry. Start by selecting potatoes that have the least amount of damage. Make sure to check for any signs of mold or rot. Place the potatoes in a cool, dry, and dark place. It’s best to place them in a paper bag or cardboard box with holes punched in it for air circulation. Storing them this way can help them last for up to six weeks.
Storing Cooked Sweet Potatoes
If you’ve already cooked the sweet potatoes, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to five days. Place the cooked potatoes in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap. Be sure to cool them completely before placing them in the fridge. You can also freeze cooked sweet potatoes for up to three months. To do this, place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer.
Storing Sweet Potatoes Long-term
If you want to store sweet potatoes for longer than a few weeks, you’ll need to cure them. Start by placing the potatoes in a cool, dry, and dark place for about two weeks. This will help to toughen up the skin and reduce the chance of spoilage. Once they’ve been cured, place them in a container with holes for air circulation and store in a cool, dry place. Make sure to check the potatoes regularly for any signs of mold or rot.
Using Stored Sweet Potatoes
When you’re ready to use stored sweet potatoes, make sure to wash them well before use. Peel off any wrinkled or soft skin and discard. Cut away any soft spots and discard as well. Depending on how long you’ve stored them, they may not have their original sweet flavor. To combat this, you can add a bit of sugar or honey to the recipe.
Conclusion
Storing sweet potatoes properly is key to making them last as long as possible. When you’re purchasing sweet potatoes, take the time to inspect them for any signs of damage. If you plan on using the potatoes soon, store them in the refrigerator or the pantry. If you want to store them for longer than a few weeks, you’ll need to cure them. Finally, when you’re ready to use stored sweet potatoes, make sure to wash them, peel off any wrinkled skin, and cut away any soft spots before use.