Storing Cut Up Sweet Potatoes: Best Methods to Keep Them Fresh

Cutting up sweet potatoes is a convenient way to prepare for future meals. For this reason many wonder how to store cut up sweet potatoes properly to maintain freshness and flavor.

The best method to store cut up sweet potatoes is in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Store the container in the crisper drawer to optimize humidity.

For those looking to store cut up sweet potatoes for longer periods, freezing is a viable option. This article will cover all the storage methods including the following:

The best way to prepare and cut them.
Refrigerating raw cut sweet potatoes.
Refrigerating cooked cut up sweet potatoes.
Storing in water.
Freezing raw cut sweet potatoes.
Freezing cooked cut up sweet potatoes.
Dehydrating.
Pressure Canner.

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Cut up sweet potatoes. — Cut up sweet potatoes

Preparation of Sweet Potatoes for Storage

To ensure longevity and maintain quality, it’s important to follow specific steps when preparing sweet potatoes for storage. These steps involve thorough cleaning, removing the skin, and cutting them into appropriate sizes.

Cleaning and Peeling

Start by washing the sweet potatoes under cold, running water to remove dirt and debris.

A vegetable brush can be used to scrub the skin gently, ensuring all residues are eliminated. Avoid using soap or detergents.

Peeling the sweet potatoes is the next step. Use a sharp paring knife or a vegetable peeler to remove the skin. If the peeler struggles with tougher spots, switch to the knife to ensure an even peel.

Following this method ensures the sweet potatoes are clean and ready for the next step in preparation.

Cutting to Preferred Size

Cut the peeled sweet potatoes into the desired sizes for storage. Often, 1-inch cubes or thin slices are preferred as they are convenient for cooking later.

Use a sharp kitchen knife for precise cuts. If uniformity in size is needed, consider using a mandolin slicer.

Place the cut pieces in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while completing the cutting process. Dry the pieces with a clean cloth before storing to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to spoilage.

This step ensures that the sweet potatoes are in suitable condition for efficient storage.

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Methods of Storing Cut Sweet Potatoes

Storing cut sweet potatoes properly ensures they stay fresh and retain their nutrients. This section addresses six specific methods for how to do so effectively.

How to Refrigerate Raw Cut Up Sweet Potatoes

To refrigerate cut sweet potatoes, follow these steps:

Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Add a damp paper towel to maintain moisture levels.
Store the container in the crisper drawer to optimize humidity.
Aim to use the refrigerated sweet potatoes within 3-5 days to enjoy the best quality.

Using Water

Submerge the raw cut sweet potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent oxidation. Ensure the water entirely covers the sweet potatoes to avoid browning.

Store the bowl in the refrigerator and change the water daily to keep it fresh. This method can extend the freshness of cut sweet potatoes for 3-5 days.

How to Refrigerate Cooked Cut Up Sweet Potatoes

Once the sweet potatoes are cooked and cut:

Let them cool to room temperature.
Store them in an airtight container to retain moisture.
Place the container in the refrigerator.
Consume the cooked sweet potatoes within 3-5 days to take full advantage of their flavor and nutritional benefits.

Cooked, cut up sweet potatoes. — Cooked cut up sweet potatoes

How to Freeze Raw Cut Up Sweet Potatoes

To freeze raw cut sweet potatoes:

Blanch them first by boiling them until soft.
Plunge them into ice water.
Drain and pat dry before placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze.
Once frozen, transfer to freezer bags or containers.
This method preserves quality for up to 6 months.

How to Freeze Cooked Cut Up Sweet Potatoes

Cook and cool the sweet potatoes before freezing. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.

Transfer to airtight freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. Vacuum sealing them is the best. It’s one of those appliances you’d wonder how you did without after buying one. Amazon has affordable ones you can check out here, vacuum sealers.

Label with the date and use within 6 months for optimal taste and texture.

Vacuum Sealing

Vacuum sealing cut sweet potatoes, whether raw or cooked, extends shelf life by removing air, which slows down spoiling.

Place the sweet potatoes in vacuum-sealable bags, ensuring they are spread out evenly. Use a vacuum sealer to remove air and seal the bag. Store in the refrigerator for short-term use or freeze for longer storage.

Drying: Using An Electric Dehydrator

Wash and peel.
Cut the sweet potatoes into 1/4 inch strips or 1/8 inch slices.
Blanch for 5-6 minutes, cool and drain.
Set the dehydrator to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Arrange strips in a single layer on the drying racks.
Dry 8-12 hours.

I prefer using Cuisinart dehydrators. They have some affordable ones on Amazon you can check here, dehydrators.

Pressure Canner

Amazon has some affordable pressure canners you can check out here, pressure canners.

Preparation:

Fill canner with 2-3″ of water and begin to warm.
Wash the sweet potatoes.
Boil until slightly soft, 15-20 minutes.
Allow to cool, then peel.
Cut pieces into uniform sizes.

Packing ¹:

Pack into clean jars.
Cover with fresh boiling water leaving 1″ of headspace.
Remove any air bubbles.
Wipe the rims dry.
Tighten the rings.

Processing ²:

Fill the canner and process for the following times and altitude adjustments:
Pint: 65 minutes.
Quart: 90 Minutes.
Altitudes above 1,000 feet require PSI adjustments.

Feet Above Sea Level	Lbs. of Pressure (Weighted Gauge)	Lbs. of Pressure (Dial Gauge)
0-1,000 ft.	10	11
1,001-2,000 ft.	15	11
2,001-4,000 ft.	15	12
4,001-6,000 ft.	15	13
6,001-8,000 ft.	15	14
8,001-10,000 ft.	15	15

Altitude adjustments for canning cut up sweet potatoes.

Resource ³

Best Practices for Storage Longevity

To maximize the storage life of cut-up sweet potatoes, focus on controlling temperature, managing moisture, and reducing air exposure. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality and longevity of your sweet potatoes.

Temperature Control

Cool temperatures are vital for prolonging the life of cut-up sweet potatoes. Store them in an environment where the temperature is consistent. This range helps prevent spoilage without letting the sweet potatoes freeze.

Moisture Management

A damp cloth or paper towel can help maintain the right moisture level without soaking the sweet potatoes. Check the cloth or towel periodically and re-dampen if it becomes dry.

Avoid direct contact with water. Any excess moisture should be wiped off before placing the sweet potatoes in the storage bag.

Air Exposure Reduction

Limiting air exposure helps slow down oxidation and spoilage. Seal the cut sweet potatoes in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to minimize contact with air.

Airtight glass or plastic containers can be used if vacuum-sealing is not an option. Ensure the container is tightly sealed after each use to maintain freshness.

Safety Tips During Storage and Handling

When storing cut-up sweet potatoes, preventing contamination and recognizing signs of spoilage are crucial for maintaining safety and quality.

Preventing Contamination

Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling sweet potatoes. Use clean cutting boards and utensils to avoid cross-contamination.

Store cut sweet potatoes in an airtight container to minimize exposure to bacteria. Label containers with the date of storage to ensure they are used within a safe timeframe. Keep the refrigerator at a consistent temperature of 40°F (4°C) or lower.

Additionally, avoid storing cut sweet potatoes near raw meat, poultry, or seafood. These items can harbor harmful bacteria that can easily transfer.

Signs of Spoilage

Look for discoloration such as dark spots or mold on the surface. These are clear indicators of spoilage.

Smell the sweet potatoes; a sour or foul odor suggests they are no longer safe to eat. If the texture feels slimy or overly soft, discard them immediately.

Pay attention to the shelf life. Even in optimal conditions, cut sweet potatoes should not be stored for more than 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Discard any sweet potatoes displaying these signs to ensure food safety.