1. Choose the right potatoes
When selecting new potatoes, you want to pick the ones that are firm and free of any blemishes or soft spots. Avoid potatoes that are green as they can be bitter because of exposure to light. Also, it’s essential to choose potatoes that are about the same size, so they cook and freeze evenly.
2. Prep the potatoes
Rinse the potatoes under cold water and use a brush to remove any dirt on the skin. Cut the larger potatoes into smaller chunks, around 1-2 inches. If you prefer, you can leave them whole, but they will take longer to cook.
3. Parboil the potatoes
Parboiling is the process of partially cooking the potatoes before freezing them, which helps retain their texture and flavor. Put the potatoes in a pot with enough water to cover them and bring it to a rolling boil. Cook them for 3-5 minutes, or until they are almost cooked but still firm.
4. Cool down the potatoes
Once the potatoes are parboiled, drain them in a colander and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Make sure that the potatoes are fully cooled before moving to the next step.
5. Place the potatoes in a freezer bag
Prepare the potatoes for the freezer by placing them in a freezer bag. Seal the bag tightly, and remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date you froze the potatoes, so you can keep track of how long they have been stored.
6. Store in the freezer
Store the potatoes in the freezer. For best results, place them in the coldest part of the freezer, at around 0°F or below. Frozen new potatoes can last up to 8 months if stored correctly.
7. Thaw and use the potatoes
When you’re ready to use the frozen new potatoes, take them out of the freezer and allow them to defrost before cooking. You can defrost them by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight, placing them under cold running water, or microwaving them on a defrost setting.
Conclusion
Freezing new potatoes is a simple and straightforward process that can allow you to enjoy them long after the growing season has ended. With just a few easy steps, you can extend their shelf-life and keep their flavors fresh. Remember to choose the right potatoes, parboil them, cool them down, place them in a freezer bag, store them correctly, and thaw them before use. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the flavors of new potatoes all year-round.