Can white potatoes be frozen prior to cooking them later?

Yes, white potatoes can be frozen prior to cooking them later. Here are the steps on how to freeze white potatoes:

1. Select fresh, firm potatoes: Choose unblemished potatoes that are firm and dry.

2. Wash and peel the potatoes: Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler or a knife.

3. Cut the potatoes into desired shapes: Cut the potatoes into cubes, wedges, or slices, depending on your preference and intended use.

4. Soak the potatoes in water: Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes to remove excess starch and prevent discoloration. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.

5. Prepare a blanching solution: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add 2 tablespoons of salt to the boiling water.

6. Blanch the potatoes: Once the water is boiling, add the potatoes to the pot. Bring the water back to a boil, reduce the heat slightly, and let the potatoes simmer for 3-5 minutes, depending on their size and thickness. The goal of blanching is to partially cook the potatoes without overcooking them.

7. Drain and cool: Immediately transfer the blanched potatoes to a colander or strainer and drain the excess water. Place the colander or strainer in an ice bath for a few minutes to stop the cooking process and preserve their texture. Drain well.

8. Dry and place on baking sheets: Spread the blanched potatoes on baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats, ensuring that they are not overlapping. This step helps prevent them from sticking together during freezing.

9. Freeze: Place the baking sheets in the freezer and freeze the potatoes for at least 2 hours or overnight, until solid.

10. Transfer to freezer-safe containers: Once frozen, transfer the potatoes to airtight freezer-safe containers or freezer-safe ziplock bags. Label the containers with the date and contents.

When you're ready to cook the potatoes, simply remove them from the freezer and cook as desired. Frozen potatoes can be cooked directly from frozen without thawing. You may need to adjust cooking times slightly compared to cooking fresh potatoes, as the freezing process can affect their texture.

Remember, white potatoes are best frozen as soon as possible after cutting to preserve their quality. If you plan on storing them for an extended period, it's advisable to blanch them first to maintain their texture and flavor.