Although soft potatoes are safe to eat if you already have one at home, avoid buying them from the store unless you plan to cook them immediately.
Potatoes with minor surface blemishes are safe to eat, as long as you cut away the affected area. You’ll get more potato for your money if you buy potatoes that are clean, smooth, and unblemished.
Although potatoes should smell faintly of soil, the skin should be relatively clean and free of dirt. [3] X Research source
Before cooking, dig out any eyes that are growing from the potato with a spoon or cut them off with a knife. [4] X Research source
Instead, look for potatoes that are smooth and plump. [5] X Research source
Potatoes with a shallow layer of green buildup are safe to eat, as long as you cut away the affected portions. You’ll get more for your money if you avoid green potatoes. [6] X Research source
Bruising is typically a sign of rough handling, but dark spots can also be a sign of blight or fungal infection.
Russets Sweet potatoes Idaho
Fingerlings Yukon Gold (low to medium starch level) Carola LaRette Austrian Crescent
Goldilocks Kennebec Onaway Elba Red potatoes Purple potatoes All Blue
Once cooked, whole new potatoes are often tossed with butter, oil, and seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs. The term new potato can refer to any kind of potato, because “new” refers to the age and maturity of the potato, not the variety.
Hash browns Latkes Potato wedges
Plastic bags are not recommended for storing potatoes, because they trap moisture and can lead to premature rotting.
Root cellars Pantries Cupboards Closets Cabinets
Do not store potatoes in the refrigerator, because the excessive cold will cause the starch to convert to sugar, changing the flavor of the potato. Potatoes that are stored at room temperature will only last for one to two weeks, as opposed to two to three months.
For houses with wet basements, a cupboard or pantry will be more suitable for potatoes.
