It is not worth freezing old potatoes as they are convenient to store. However, you can freeze new potatoes to enjoy out of season, and prepared potatoes. Select small, even-sized new potatoes that are very fresh and firm.

Scrub or scrape the new potatoes. Blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and plunge immediately in a bowl of iced water to cool. Drain and dry on kitchen paper. Alternatively, boil in lightly salted water with a sprig of mint added, until still slightly undercooked. Drain and toss in butter. Cool quickly.

Pack in convenient quantities in polythene bags. Remove the air, seal, label and freeze. Storage time: 12 months raw, 3 months cooked.