Ask Dr. Potato

The IPC office is closed for the holiday but don't fear… With 938 posts, chances are your Thanksgiving mashed potato questions have probably already been answered! Keywords that might help you find the answers you’re looking for include: ahead, group, advance, and yield.

If you're looking specifically for Mashed Potato information, make sure to visit our All Things Mashed Potatoes page which has everything you need to know about preparing perfect mashed potatoes.

View All Things Mashed Potatoes

Have Potatoes Changed Over the Years?

May 12, 2021
Q: Have potatoes changed over the years? I've noticed that they seem to be more starchy and repel water content when cooked. Can you please explain this?
Read The Answer »

What is the Best Way to Freeze Whole Cooked Potatoes?

May 5, 2021
Q: What is the best way to freeze whole cooked potatoes?
Read The Answer »

Can I Grow My Own Potatoes?

Apr 28, 2021
Q: I live in Ohio and I'm thinking about growing my own potatoes to serve at my restaurant. Would this be a good idea or should I consult with farmers in Idaho so I know I will be getting a good product? 
Read The Answer »

Can I Use an Airfryer for French Fries in My Restaurant?

Apr 20, 2021
Q: I just opened a restaurant where we make fresh-cut French fries and I'm wondering if it's a good idea to cook them in an airfryer so they are healthier. What are your thoughts on this?
Read The Answer »

What is the Proper Way to Poke a Baked Potato to Release Steam While Cooking?

Apr 12, 2021
Q: Is there an advantage to creating a deeper poke for a baked potato or is piercing the skin is enough? Will a deeper poke dry it out? 
Read The Answer »

How Far in Advance Can I Prep the Potatoes for My Easter Sunday Potato Salad Dish?

Mar 30, 2021
Q: I am making potato salad for Easter Sunday and would like to get as much as possible done ahead of time. How far in advance can I prep the potatoes for my potato salad dish?
Read The Answer »

Can a Person with Diabetes Eat Potatoes?

Mar 29, 2021
Q: I have diabetes and am wondering if it's okay to eat potatoes, can you please advise?
Read The Answer »

What Do I Need To Know About Serving Fresh-Cut French Fries

Mar 25, 2021
Q: I am starting a new business and I want to serve hand-cut French fries to my customers. What do I need to know about this process before I get started?
Read The Answer »

Can I Prepare Potatoes to be Baked Ahead of Time?

Mar 17, 2021
Q: I want to prepare some potatoes to be baked a few days ahead of time, is this possible? We oil and salt the potatoes, then wrap them in foil. Do I need to refrigerate the prepped (oiled and wrapped potatoes) to hold them for 2 or 3 days before cooking? 
Read The Answer »

If I Store My Cooked Potatoes in Water in the Refrigerator, Will They Become Mushy?

Mar 10, 2021
Q: To keep boiled potatoes from turning black, when you store them in water with white wine vinegar, is that for overnight? Won’t the potatoes become mushy? 
Read The Answer »