Avoid potatoes that are wrinkled, sprouted or cracked. This bitter green portion can be cut or scraped off and the potato used in the normal fashion. Store potatoes in a cool, dark, well ventilated place for up to 2 weeks. New potatoes should be used within 3 days of purchase. Refrigerating potatoes causes them to become sweet and turn dark when cooked.
Warm temperatures encourage sprouting and shriveling.
Potatoes are probably the most versatile vegetable in the world and can be cooked in any way imaginable. They're low in sodium, high in potassium and an important source of complex carbohydrates and vitamins C and B-6, as well as a storehouse of minerals. Neither sweet potatoes nor yams are botanically related to the potato.