Mashed potatoes

Creamy and delicious mashed potatoes: A simple and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes? This classic dish is a perfect companion for meat, fish, or vegetables and can transform any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. Mashed potatoes are a recipe that dates back to ancient times, celebrated worldwide for their simplicity and versatility of ingredients. Let's discover together how to achieve the perfect mash, with a velvety texture and exquisite taste!

Ingredients:
- 7-8 medium potatoes (approximately 1 kg)
- 40 g butter (preferably good quality)
- 1 cup of milk (approximately 250 ml, preferably whole)
- Salt (to taste)
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredient details:
Potatoes are the main ingredient of this recipe. Choose potatoes that are firm and smooth in texture, avoiding those with spots or blemishes. Waxy or starchy potatoes are the best, as they have a higher starch content, making them creamier.

Butter adds a richness of flavor, while milk contributes to creaminess. You can also experiment with different types of milk (for example, almond or coconut milk) to add an interesting twist!

Step by step: Cooking mashed potatoes
1. Cleaning and cutting the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes using a knife or peeler. Once peeled, wash them well under cold water to remove impurities. Cut them into cubes of about 3-4 cm. This will ensure even boiling.

2. Boiling the potatoes: Fill a large pot with water and add a teaspoon of salt. Put it on high heat. Once the water starts to boil, add the cut potatoes. Cover the pot with a lid and let them boil for about 20-30 minutes, or until they can be easily pierced with a fork.

3. Draining the potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander, but keep a cup of the water they boiled in. This can be used later if you want to adjust the consistency of the mash.

4. Mashing the potatoes: In a large bowl or pot, add the cooked potatoes. Begin mashing them using a potato masher or an immersion blender. Add the cut butter pieces to melt more easily.

5. Adding the milk: After the potatoes have been well mashed, start gradually incorporating the milk. Mix until the mash becomes creamy and smooth. If you want a softer consistency, add a splash of the water in which the potatoes boiled.

6. Salting and adjusting the taste: Finally, taste the mash and add salt to your preference. This is essential to bring out the flavors.

7. Serving: Serve the mashed potatoes warm, garnished with finely chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It can be served alongside roasts, grilled fish, or vegetables.

Tips and variations:
- Adding flavors: You can enrich the mashed potatoes with additional flavors, such as roasted garlic or cheese, for a more intense taste.
- Onion mashed potatoes: Sauté some onions until golden and add them during the mashing process for a sweet note.
- Herb mashed potatoes: Add fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a more sophisticated flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of mashed potatoes (approximately 150 g) contains around 200-250 calories, depending on the amount of butter and milk used. Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making them a comforting and filling food.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes can be used to create a sweeter and more nutritious mash.
- How can I store mashed potatoes? You can store the mash in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in airtight containers. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk to bring it back to the desired consistency.
- Is mashed potatoes vegan? No, to make a vegan mash, replace the butter with olive oil and the milk with plant-based milk.

Serving suggestions:
Mashed potatoes pair perfectly with pork or beef roasts, but also with grilled fish or vegetable dishes, such as vegetable patties. Additionally, a fresh green salad can perfectly complement this dish.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron and start the culinary adventure! Preparing mashed potatoes can be a pleasant activity, perfect for relaxing and bringing a touch of joy to the kitchen. Enjoy your meal!