Hints from Heloise

Wed., Jan. 31, 2007

The Spokesman-Review

Dear Heloise: As a senior-citizen widower, what cooking I do is limited. Baked and sweet potatoes are a favorite and easy to prepare.

To save on my grocery costs, I buy a number of them when I find their price reduced. I keep them on a shelf in the refrigerator until I get ready to use them. This keeps them from sprouting and shriveling out, like they do if kept at room temperature. – D.R., Alabama

Well, if this works for you, I’m glad to hear it. But one note for others: Potato experts say that potatoes should not be stored in the refrigerator. The cold turns the starch to sugar, which can affect the taste.

The ideal way to store potatoes is in a dark, well-ventilated area between 45 and 50 degrees. Also, don’t store them with onions or in a plastic bag. – Heloise

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