the_information_nexus/food_related/mashed_potatoes.md

Foolproof Creamy Mashed Potatoes

This recipe will yield smooth, creamy mashed potatoes that pair perfectly with your Balsamic Chicken and Caramelized Onions.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds russet potatoes (about 4 large potatoes)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1/2 cup whole milk (or more for desired consistency)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste (start with 1 tsp)
• 1/4 tsp white pepper (or black pepper if white is unavailable)
• Optional: 2 cloves of garlic, peeled (for garlic mashed potatoes)

Instructions:

1. Prep the potatoes (5 minutes):

   • Peel the potatoes and cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the sizes consistent for even cooking.
   • As you cut, place the potato cubes in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.

2. Cook the potatoes (15-20 minutes):

   • Drain the potatoes and place them in a large pot.
   • Add enough cold water to cover the potatoes by about an inch.
   • Add 1 tsp of salt and the garlic cloves (if using) to the water.
   • Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
   • Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the potato cubes.

3. Prepare for mashing (5 minutes):

   • While the potatoes are cooking, in a small saucepan, combine the butter, milk, and cream.
   • Heat over low heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm. Keep warm.

4. Drain and dry the potatoes (2 minutes):

   • Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander.
   • Return the empty pot to the stove over low heat.
   • Add the drained potatoes back to the pot and gently shake for about 30 seconds. This helps excess moisture evaporate, leading to fluffier potatoes.

5. Mash the potatoes (5 minutes):

   • Remove the pot from heat.
   • If you used garlic cloves, mash them with a fork and mix into the potatoes.
   • Use a potato masher or a hand mixer on low speed to begin mashing the potatoes.
   • Gradually add the warm butter-milk mixture, continuing to mash.
   • Add salt and white pepper.

6. Finish and adjust (2 minutes):

   • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
   • If the potatoes are too thick, add more warm milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Notes:

• For extra smooth potatoes, you can pass them through a ricer before adding the butter-milk mixture.
• Be careful not to overmix if using a hand mixer, as this can make the potatoes gluey.
• These mashed potatoes can be made ahead and kept warm in a covered dish in a low oven (200°F) for up to 2 hours.

Serving suggestion:

Serve these creamy mashed potatoes alongside your Balsamic Chicken with Caramelized Onions. The smooth, buttery potatoes will provide a perfect contrast to the tangy, savory chicken dish.