Description
Creamy mashed potatoes from Ireland blend rustic comfort with silky texture. Rich butter and warm milk elevate this classic side dish for comfortable gatherings with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs (1 kg) russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tbsps unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Potato Preparation: Cut potatoes into uniform chunks for consistent cooking and texture.
- Boiling Process: Place potato pieces in a large pot, cover with cold water, and generously salt to enhance flavor.
- Cooking Technique: Bring water to a vigorous boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer, cooking for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Draining and Steaming: Strain potatoes in a colander, return to the hot pot, and allow residual heat to evaporate excess moisture.
- Mashing Method: Utilize a masher, ricer, or hand mixer to transform potatoes into a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Flavor Infusion: Gradually blend softened butter and warm milk, incorporating garlic powder to elevate the taste profile.
- Seasoning Refinement: Adjust salt and freshly ground black pepper to personal preference, ensuring a perfectly balanced flavor.
- Presentation: Transfer to a serving dish, optionally garnishing with fresh chives or parsley, and serve immediately while piping hot.
Notes
- Choose Potato Variety Wisely: Select starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest, fluffiest mashed potatoes that absorb butter and milk perfectly.
- Prevent Waterlogging: Start potatoes in cold water and avoid overcooking to maintain optimal texture and prevent watery, gluey consistency.
- Master Mashing Technique: Use a potato ricer or masher for smoother results, avoiding electric mixers that can make potatoes gummy and overworked.
- Customize for Dietary Needs: Swap dairy milk with almond or oat milk for lactose-free version, and use plant-based butter for vegan alternative without compromising rich, creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg