How to make creamy mashed potatoes from scratch

Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food that everyone enjoys. Making mashed potatoes from scratch is not as difficult as it seems. All you need are a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time. In this article, we will guide you on how to make the perfect mashed potatoes from scratch without any hassle.

First things first, you need to choose the right type of potatoes for mashed potatoes. Russet potatoes are the best choice as they have a high amount of starch and a low moisture content, which makes them perfect for fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes. After selecting the potatoes, peel and dice them into small pieces. Boil them in salted water until they are soft and tender. Once the potatoes are cooked, you can start the process of mashing and seasoning them. Follow the steps carefully and you will have a mouth-watering side dish ready in no time!

Choose the Right Potatoes

When it comes to making mashed potatoes from scratch, choosing the right potatoes is crucial. You want to select a type of potato that has a high starch content, such as Russet potatoes. These types of potatoes have a fluffy, dry texture that is perfect for mashing. Avoid potatoes like Yukon Gold, which have a waxy texture, as they will result in gummy mashed potatoes.

Peel and Cut the Potatoes

After you’ve selected your potatoes, it’s time to peel and cut them. Start by rinsing the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, using a vegetable peeler, peel the potatoes. Once they are peeled, cut them into evenly sized pieces so that they will cook at the same rate. This will ensure that your mashed potatoes are evenly textured.

Cook the Potatoes

Place the cut potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous amount of salt to the water, as this will help to season the potatoes. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat and let the potatoes simmer until they are fork-tender. This should take around 15-20 minutes. Be sure not to overcook the potatoes, as they will become mushy and difficult to mash.

Drain the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are cooked, it’s time to drain them. Use a colander to strain the potatoes, then return them to the pot. This will help to remove any excess water and prevent your mashed potatoes from becoming watery.

Add Butter

To make your mashed potatoes creamy and rich, you’ll want to add butter. Add a generous amount of butter to the pot of potatoes, around 1/2 cup or more, depending on your preference. The butter will melt and coat the potatoes, creating a luscious, velvety texture.

Add Milk or Cream

In addition to butter, you’ll want to add some milk or cream to your mashed potatoes. This will give them a smooth, silky texture. Start with a small amount of milk, about 1/4 cup, and add more as needed until the potatoes reach your desired consistency. For even richer mashed potatoes, use heavy cream instead of milk.

Season with Salt and Pepper

To bring out the flavor in your mashed potatoes, season them with salt and pepper. Start with a small amount of salt and pepper, then taste and adjust as needed. Be careful not to over-salt, as it can take away from the natural flavor of the potatoes.

Mash the Potatoes

Now it’s time to mash the potatoes. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Be sure to mash all of the potatoes, including any large chunks, to ensure an even texture.

Add Optional Ingredients

If you want to add a little extra flavor to your mashed potatoes, consider adding some optional ingredients. Chopped herbs like parsley or chives can add a fresh, bright flavor. Garlic, roasted or minced, can add depth and richness. And grated cheese, like cheddar or parmesan, can add a tangy, savory note.

Serve and Enjoy!

Your homemade mashed potatoes are now ready to be served! Spoon them into a serving dish and garnish with additional herbs or butter, if desired. Enjoy them alongside your favorite main dish, or simply on their own as a comforting and satisfying side dish.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Once you’ve decided to make mashed potatoes from scratch, the first step is to gather all the necessary ingredients. This will include:

1. Potatoes: The number of potatoes you’ll need will depend on how many people you’re cooking for, but a rough guide is around 1 medium-sized potato per person.

2. Butter: You’ll want around 1/4 cup of butter for every 2 pounds of potatoes.

3. Milk: You’ll need around 1/2 cup of milk for every 2 pounds of potatoes.

4. Salt: Use around 1 teaspoon of salt for every 2 pounds of potatoes.

5. Pepper: Use around 1/2 teaspoon of pepper for every 2 pounds of potatoes.

6. Other optional ingredients: Some people like to add garlic, chives, cheese, or sour cream to their mashed potatoes. If you’re using any of these ingredients, make sure you have them on hand too.

Choosing the Right Potatoes

When it comes to making mashed potatoes, not all potatoes are created equal. You want to choose a potato that will help you achieve the creamy, fluffy texture that mashed potatoes are known for. Russet potatoes are a popular choice, as they have a high starch content and a low moisture content, which makes them ideal for mashing. Yukon gold potatoes are another good option, as they have a rich, buttery flavor and creamy texture.

Peeling and Dicing Your Potatoes

Once you’ve chosen your potatoes, it’s time to start preparing them. Firstly, wash them under running water to get rid of any dirt and debris. Then, use a potato peeler to remove the skin. Once the potatoes are peeled, dice them into small, evenly sized pieces. This will ensure that they cook evenly and are easier to mash later on.

Cooking the Potatoes

With your potatoes peeled and diced, it’s time to cook them. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then bring it to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer and let the potatoes cook for around 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Draining and Drying the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are cooked, it’s important to drain them thoroughly. Use a colander to strain the potatoes, then return them to the pot. Let the potatoes sit in the pot for a minute or two to dry out, as excess moisture can make your mashed potatoes turn out watery.

Add Butter and Milk

Now it’s time to add the butter and milk to your potatoes. Place the pot back on the stove over low heat. Add the butter and let it melt, then pour in the milk. Stir the potatoes gently with a spoon or potato masher until the butter and milk are fully incorporated.

Seasoning Your Mashed Potatoes

To make sure your potatoes are flavorful, it’s essential to add salt and pepper. Sprinkle the salt and pepper over the top of the potatoes and stir them in. Taste the potatoes and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Mashing Your Potatoes

With all the ingredients mixed together, it’s time to start mashing your potatoes. You can use a potato masher, an electric beater, or even a stand mixer. Mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency – some people like their mashed potatoes smooth and creamy, while others prefer them chunky.

Adding Optional Ingredients

If you want to take your mashed potatoes to the next level, you can add some additional ingredients at this stage. Crushed garlic, grated cheese, chopped chives, and sour cream are all popular options. Add your chosen ingredients gradually, tasting the potatoes as you go to make sure they don’t overpower the flavor.

Serving Your Mashed Potatoes

To serve your mashed potatoes, transfer them to a serving dish and garnish with a sprig of parsley or a swirl of melted butter. Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with almost any main course. Serve them up as part of a cozy family dinner or at your next special occasion.

Tools and Ingredients Needed

To make mashed potatoes from scratch, there are a few tools and ingredients that you’ll need to have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

Table

Preparing the Potatoes

Before you begin making your mashed potatoes, you’ll need to prepare the potatoes for cooking. Start by scrubbing the potatoes under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Once they’re clean, peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes.

Next, place the cubed potatoes into a large stockpot or Dutch oven and fill the pot with enough water to cover the potatoes by an inch or two. Add a pinch of salt to the water to help season the potatoes as they cook.

Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the potatoes simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. To check if the potatoes are done, pierce them with a fork – if the fork easily slides through the potato without resistance, they’re ready.

Draining and Mashing the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are cooked, it’s time to drain off the water and mash them. To do this, first, place a colander or strainer in your sink and carefully pour the potatoes into it. Let them sit for a few minutes to allow any remaining water to drain off.

Next, return the potatoes to the pot and add the unsalted butter, salt, and pepper. Use a potato masher or ricer to mash the potatoes until they’re smooth and creamy.

If you prefer a creamier texture, gradually mix in heated milk or heavy cream until the potatoes reach your desired consistency. Just be careful not to overdo it or you’ll end up with soupy mashed potatoes.

Serving and Storing Mashed Potatoes

Once your mashed potatoes are ready, they’re best served immediately while they’re still warm and creamy. You can garnish them with chopped fresh herbs, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to four days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little bit of milk or cream to help restore their creaminess.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Mashed Potatoes

To ensure that your mashed potatoes turn out perfectly every time, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:

– Use russet potatoes for the fluffiest texture.
– Don’t overcook or undercook the potatoes – they should be fork-tender but not mushy.
– Warm your milk or cream before adding it to the potatoes to prevent lumps.
– Don’t overmix the mashed potatoes or they’ll become gummy.
– Experiment with add-ins like garlic, cheese, bacon, or herbs to add extra flavor.
– Use a potato ricer for extra-smooth mashed potatoes.

Time to Dig In!

And there you have it, folks, your very own homemade mashed potatoes! It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can create such a delicious and comforting dish. Thanks for reading through and learning how to make mashed potatoes from scratch. I hope this article has made you hungry and inspired to get cooking! Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep trying and experimenting with different flavors and techniques to make these potatoes your own. Make sure to visit again later for more easy and tasty recipes. Happy cooking!