Blanching potatoes is a helpful technique to preserve their texture, color, and flavor before freezing. It also makes it easier to remove the skin and aids in the even cooking process. Follow these 12 simple steps to master the art of blanching potatoes:

1. Select fresh and firm potatoes: Choose high-quality potatoes without any green spots, sprouts or blemishes for the best results.

2. Clean the potatoes: Rinse the potatoes thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.

3. Peel the potatoes (optional): If desired, you can peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler or a sharp paring knife.

4. Cut the potatoes into desired size: Slice or dice the potatoes depending on your preferences and intended use.

5. Fill a large pot with water: Use enough water so that it can easily cover all of your potato pieces when submerged.

6. Add salt: Add about 1 tbsp of salt per quart of water to season and enhance the flavor of the potatoes.

7. Bring the water to a boil: Place the pot on high heat and wait for the water to reach a rolling boil.

8. Submerge the potato pieces: Carefully drop the cut potato pieces into boiling water using a slotted spoon or mesh strainer.

9. Boil for appropriate time: Boil small potato pieces for 2-3 minutes and larger pieces for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to partially cook them while retaining their original shape.

10. Prepare an ice bath: Fill a large bowl with ice and cold water in order to stop the cooking process quickly once you remove the potatoes from boiling water.

11. Transfer potatoes to ice bath: Using a slotted spoon or mesh strainer, gently remove potato pieces from boiling water and transfer them directly into prepared ice bath for about 2-3 minutes to cool down. This step will halt the cooking process and help retain their texture.

12. Drain and pat dry: After cooling, carefully drain the potatoes from the ice bath and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.

Now your blanched potatoes are ready for freezing, deep frying or any other use. Enjoy experimenting with different ways to incorporate blanched potatoes into your recipes!