Quick Answer
Potatoes can be sliced 1-2 days in advance if stored properly in water or airtight containers. For best results, plan to slice potatoes within 24 hours of cooking or serving. Sliced raw potatoes will start to brown due to oxidation, but this does not affect taste or quality.
Storing Sliced Raw Potatoes
Here are some tips for storing sliced raw potatoes:
In Water
– Slice potatoes and place in bowl of cool water. Make sure potatoes are fully submerged.
– Change the water every 12 hours to keep potatoes fresh.
– Store bowl in the refrigerator. Potatoes sliced in water will stay fresh for 1-2 days.
In Airtight Container
– Slice potatoes and pat dry with paper towels or clean tea towel.
– Place potato slices in an airtight container, parchment paper or plastic wrap can help keep air out.
– Store in the refrigerator. Potatoes stored this way will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
What Happens Over Time
Raw potatoes start to oxidize and turn brown when they are exposed to air. Here is what happens over time:
| Time | Appearance | Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 4 hours | Minimal oxidation, slices look freshly cut | Still fresh, good to use |
| 8-24 hours | Noticeable browning, edges look grey | Still good quality, safe to eat |
| 36-48 hours | Browning throughout, grey/brown color | Texture suffers, best for mashed |
As you can see, sliced raw potatoes can be kept for 1-2 days before quality really declines. The browning does not affect taste or safety, it is simply an oxidation reaction.
Cooking Sliced Potatoes
Even potatoes sliced 2 days prior will be fine for cooking. The heat from cooking halts the oxidation reaction.
Here are some good ways to use potatoes sliced in advance:
Frying or Roasting
– French fries, roasted potato wedges – slice and store in water up to 2 days before cooking
– Hash browns, potato pancakes – store slices dry in airtight container up to 2 days before
Boiling/Simmering
– Soups, stews, boiled potatoes – use slices stored in water for up to 2 days
– The moisture from the boiling water rehydrates any dried out slices
Baking
– Gratins, scalloped potatoes, casseroles – use dry stored slices, brown spots can be trimmed off
– The liquid from other ingredients and oven moisture keeps potatoes from drying out
Conclusion
Slicing potatoes in advance can save time when cooking. With proper storage techniques, sliced raw potatoes will keep well for 1-2 days. While oxidation may cause browning, it does not affect the safety or quality. Cook sliced potatoes within 2 days for best texture and flavor.