To clean the outside of a sweet potato, you should scrub it thoroughly before peeling.
Cleaning the exterior of sweet potatoes is a simple but important step in food preparation. The primary method involves scrubbing the surface. According to the reference Peel Raw Sweet Potatoes, you should "Scrub before peeling to remove any dirt or bacteria on the skin". This ensures that any potential contaminants on the skin are removed before you handle or peel the potato, preventing them from transferring to the edible flesh.
Here's a straightforward approach to cleaning the outside of a sweet potato:
Steps for Cleaning Sweet Potatoes
- Rinse: Hold the sweet potato under cool running water. This initial rinse helps to wash away loose dirt.
- Scrub: Using a vegetable brush (or even clean hands), scrub the entire surface of the sweet potato. Pay close attention to any indentations or rough spots where dirt might hide. The scrubbing action, as highlighted in the reference, is crucial for removing stubborn dirt and bacteria.
- Rinse Again: Give the sweet potato another quick rinse under running water to wash away the scrubbed-off dirt and debris.
- Dry: While not strictly part of cleaning, the reference also notes, "Completely dry potatoes before peeling." Drying is important if you plan to peel them afterward, as it can make the peeling process easier and safer.
Why Scrub?
Scrubbing is more effective than just rinsing because the skin of a sweet potato can hold onto soil and microorganisms. The texture of the skin requires friction to dislodge these particles.
- Removes Dirt: Gets rid of visible soil and grit.
- Reduces Bacteria: Minimizes the presence of bacteria on the surface, which is important whether you're eating the skin or just peeling it.
By following these steps, you ensure that the outside of your sweet potato is clean and ready for peeling or cooking.
