How To Wash Potatoes To Remove Dirt and Pesticides, According to an Expert
Washing potatoes thoroughly is essential to remove dirt, pesticides, and other contaminants that might be present on their surface. Potatoes grow underground and often come coated with soil, bacteria, and even chemical residues from agricultural practices.
To clean them effectively, start by rinsing them under cold running water. Use a gentle stream to loosen dirt and debris. For better results, scrub each potato with a vegetable brush.
This tool helps remove stubborn dirt and any residues clinging to the skin. Be sure to focus on the crevices and eyes of the potato, as these areas can trap grime.
Using plain water is usually sufficient for most cleaning purposes, but for a deeper clean, consider soaking the potatoes in a mixture of water and white vinegar.
Add about one cup of vinegar to a large bowl of water and let the potatoes sit for 10-15 minutes. Vinegar has natural antimicrobial properties and can help reduce pesticide residues.
After soaking, rinse the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining solution. Avoid using soap or detergents, as these are not food-safe and can leave harmful residues.
For potatoes that will be eaten with their skin, such as baby potatoes or red-skinned varieties, ensure they are scrubbed extra thoroughly since their skin is thin and more likely to retain contaminants.
If peeling the potatoes, washing them beforehand is still important to avoid transferring dirt from the skin to the flesh during peeling. Once cleaned, dry the potatoes with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel if they will be stored or used later.