How to Mash Potatoes

Mashing potatoes is an art form to some families. Here's a recipe that won't fail. Serves 6.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 4 to 6 potatoes
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/3 to 1/2 c. milk
• 2 to 4 tbsp. butter
• pepper
• Potato Peelers
• Food Mills
• Potato Mashers
• Potato Ricers
• Groceries
• Colanders
• Chef's Knives
• Wire Whisks
• Electric Mixer
• Mixing bowls

1. 

   Peel and boil 4 to 6 medium-size potatoes for 20 to 25 minutes or until tender when pierced with the tip of a knife.

2. Drain potatoes in a colander, return them to the pot they were boiled in and shake over medium heat until the potato pieces are dry and mealy.

3. 

   Puree potatoes by passing them through a food mill or potato ricer, by whipping them with an electric mixer, or by mashing them with a potato masher or heavy fork. Work out lumps as best as you can.

4. 

   Whisk in 2 to 4 tbsp. melted butter, a pinch of salt, pepper to taste and 1/3 to 1/2 c. warmed milk. Whisk potatoes to desired smoothness.

5. Serve immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• A food mill or potato ricer yields the smoothest puree.
• An electric mixer, potato masher or fork means more muscle work, but it still does the job well.
• Never use a food processor to make mashed potatoes. They will become gooey and gluey.
• Use less butter and milk for lumpier potatoes. Use more for creamier potatoes.
• Wash the potatoes, but keep the skins on for "dirty" mashed potatoes. They're very good for you and nicely rustic.
• Don't undercook the potatoes. Boil until soft through and through.

Who Can Help:

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[Tywinky]

on 12/27/2008 My recipe adds a bit more kick than "a pinch of salt." I like semi-spicy and flavorable mashed potatos; if you do too, read on:
*Roast a whole garlic in the oven for 45 min
*Prepare potatos as aforementioned, except leave the skins on.
*Finely dice 1 serrano pepper; so fine that you cannot see it in the finished product, but taste it no doubt; Add it to the boiling water with the potatos.
*When the potatos are done, mash them in a bowl with the roasted garlic (peeled of course!)
*Add a little milk and butter for creaminess
*Sprinkle a few dashes of Cayenne Pepper, continue to mash
Walla! Delicious Garlic and spicy mashed potatos!
ENJOY!

on 11/22/2005 Instead of using so much milk, use cream cheese with a little milk and butter and it makes the potatoes really creamy. Diced ham and green onions with a pinch of garlic make them taste great with no need for gravy.

on 11/22/2005 When the potatoes are mashed and ready, mix in some chopped basil leaves, peppercorns, rosemary and bacon bits. Mix them in with any old wooden spoon.

on 11/22/2005 Try adding about 2 tablespoons of cream cheese! Add more or less to taste. This makes it mega smooth and creamy and the flavor is awesome!

on 11/22/2005 Adding carrots (cook with potatoes and carry them along) makes for a colorful and tasty treat.