Close-up of potatoes in basket

Ask Dr. Potato

With everything our potato experts know, they should be called doctors! Have a question? Dr. Potato will be sure to get your question answered within a week.

With 944 posts, chances are there's already an answer to your question. Please try searching below before submitting a question to Dr. Potato.

Back To Questions

Question

Do I peel the potatoes before soaking them in lemon juice or vinegar?

Do I peel the potatoes before soaking them in lemon juice or vinegar?

Answer

It depends on your goal:

  • For preventing browning (oxidation): Peel and then soak the potatoes in water with lemon juice or vinegar. This keeps the exposed flesh from turning brown.
  • For cleaning purposes: If you're just washing off dirt and bacteria, soak them whole and peel afterward.

If you’re storing cut potatoes in water with acid, don’t soak them for too long—1 to 2 hours is fine. Longer soaking can make them absorb water and affect texture when cooked.

Dr. Potato isn't a real doctor but a team of potato experts ready to answer all your potato questions.

Ask a Question