How to freeze potatoes and mashed potatoes: step-by-step guide
Yes, you can freeze potatoes for up to three months, but you do need to prep them first. Taste explains how to safely freeze potatoes and mashed potatoes.
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Maybe you are growing your own potatoes and have an excess, or have bought more than you need on special and are now wondering how to ensure the spuds don’t go to waste.
While uncooked potatoes can generally last for a couple of weeks in a dark place at room temperature, if you really have too much, it’s a great idea to freeze them well before they start turning wrinkly and sprouting in your pantry or fridge.
Taste.com.au explains how it can be done.
Can you freeze potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze potatoes up to three months, but you do need to par-cook them first, following these steps:
1. Peel and cut your potatoes into chunks or thick chip shapes
2. Drop into a saucepan of boiling water and cook for 3-8 minutes, depending on size, or until parboiled (they will just be able to be pierced with a skewer, but won’t be too soft)
3. Drain then plunge into a bowl of iced water to stop the cooking process
4. Drain well again and pat dry with a paper towel
5. Arrange on a tray, spaced apart, and freeze for about 1 hour or until firm
6. Transfer to a freezer bag and expel the air before sealing
How to defrost potatoes
You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or you can actually cook them from frozen. Roast chunks in a hot oven, or fry chips in batches in a deep pan half-filled with oil. They will take a little longer to cook than fresh spuds.
Can you freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze mashed potatoes. Place the mashed potatoes in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to one month. To thaw, place in the fridge overnight or heat small portions from frozen in the microwave or a saucepan.
Can you freeze raw potatoes?
No, it’s not recommended to freeze raw potatoes as they contain lots of water which when thawed turns the potatoes mushy and hard to cook with (and not nice to eat).
Our best potato recipes:
Our best mashed potato recipes:
Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
For more recipe ideas, go to taste.com.au or check out the Taste Test Kitchen now.
Originally published as How to freeze potatoes and mashed potatoes: step-by-step guide
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