Mashed potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that pairs well with a variety of dishes. They’re creamy, buttery, and easy to make. Here’s a simple recipe to create delicious mashed potatoes:

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds (about 900 g) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work well)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk (or cream for richer flavor)
  • 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)
  • Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs for flavor

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks (about 1-2 inches). This helps them cook evenly.

  2. Boil the potatoes: Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

  3. Drain the potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for a few minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate.

  4. Mash the potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add the butter and start mashing with a potato masher or fork. For a smoother texture, you can use a potato ricer.

  5. Add milk: Gradually add the milk (or cream) while continuing to mash until you reach your desired consistency. Adjust the amount of milk to make them creamier if needed.

  6. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. You can also mix in garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley for extra flavor.

  7. Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and, if desired, top with a pat of butter or sprinkle with additional herbs.

Tips:

  • For extra creaminess, warm the milk before adding it to the potatoes.
  • You can also add cream cheese, sour cream, or grated cheese for a richer flavor.

Enjoy your creamy and comforting mashed potatoes!