How do you safely store baking potatoes and yellow onions out of their bags?

Potatoes:

1. Pick a Cool, Dark Location: Potatoes prefer temperatures around 45-55°F (7-13°C) to prevent sprouting and maintain their freshness. Choose a location like a pantry, root cellar, or cool corner of your kitchen that is dark and does not get direct sunlight.

2. Use Breathable Containers: Store potatoes in well-ventilated containers. These containers can be open baskets, perforated plastic bins, or cardboard boxes with holes punched in them. Proper air circulation helps prevent moisture build-up and potential spoilage.

3. Avoid Plastic Bags: Plastic bags restrict air circulation and trap moisture, which can cause potatoes to rot more quickly. If you need to use a plastic bag, ensure there are several holes in it to provide some ventilation.

4. Don't Refrigerate: Refrigerating potatoes can cause their texture to become mealy and watery. This is because refrigeration can convert potato starch into sugars at lower temperatures.

Yellow Onions:

1. Pick a Cool, Dry Place: Yellow onions thrive in cool, dry, and well-ventilated environments. Choose a location in your kitchen that meets these conditions, like a pantry, cabinet, or even a drawer.

2. Hang or Place in a Single Layer: To promote air circulation and reduce bruising, store onions by hanging them in a mesh bag or placing them in a single layer in a shallow basket or container.

3. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Just like potatoes, onions should not be exposed to direct sunlight, as it can cause them to sprout prematurely.

4. Separate from Potatoes: Onions release ethylene gas, which can cause potatoes to sprout more quickly. Store onions and potatoes in separate areas to prevent interactions and extend their shelf life.

Remember that both potatoes and yellow onions benefit from a consistent storage environment. Monitor them regularly and discard any that show signs of spoilage or softness. If you notice any sprouting, use them promptly.