Importance

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Abstract

A method of processing potatoes or vegetables to dehydrated hash browns or other forms is disclosed where cooked and cooled potato slices are subjected to a second cooking time to improve flavor, texture and composition. The potato slices are further cooled to a chilled temperature which modifies the starch content of the potato so that the potato can be easily processed to smaller sizes, shapes or dimensions. When processed to a smaller size, shape or dimension, the potato material is contacted with a lubricating substance devoid of water which reduces or prevents the potato pieces from sticking together and improves the composition of the dehydrated potato pieces. The process of the present invention improves the flavor, texture and composition of the potatoes, both during the processing steps and at later rehydration. The process of the present invention also merely modifies the starch content of the potatoes without having to remove the starch and/or add the starch back in at a later time. As a result, product yields are increased.

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First Claim