What method of preserving food did the Incas first use on potatoes?

The Incas preserved potatoes using a method called "chuño," which involves freezing and dehydrating the tubers. They would leave the potatoes out in the cold night air, allowing them to freeze, and then expose them to the sun during the day. This process removes moisture, preventing spoilage and enabling long-term storage. Chuño was crucial for sustaining the Inca population during harsh winters and times of scarcity.