Can you freeze sweet potatoes without cooking or peeling?

It is not recommended to freeze sweet potatoes without cooking or peeling. Here's why:

1. Uncooked texture: Freezing uncooked sweet potatoes will result in a spongy and mushy texture after thawing. Cooking the sweet potatoes before freezing helps to preserve their natural texture.

2. Enzyme activity: Freezing uncooked sweet potatoes does not stop the activity of enzymes that can cause the breakdown of the potatoes' sugars and nutrients. Cooking deactivates these enzymes and helps maintain the quality and flavor of the sweet potatoes during freezing.

3. Skin problems: The skin of sweet potatoes can become tough and fibrous after freezing uncooked. Peeling the sweet potatoes before freezing helps to prevent this issue.

To properly freeze sweet potatoes, follow these steps:

1. Scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork several times to allow steam to escape during cooking.

3. Bake the sweet potatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes, or until they are tender and cooked through.

4. Let the sweet potatoes cool completely.

5. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into desired shapes or sizes.

6. Place the sweet potato pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring that they are not touching each other.

7. Flash freeze the sweet potato pieces for about 2 hours, or until they are frozen solid.

8. Transfer the frozen sweet potato pieces to freezer-safe airtight containers, label them with the date, and store them in the freezer for up to 12 months.

When you're ready to use the frozen sweet potatoes, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. You can then use them in your desired recipes.