Perfecting the mash: Tips for creamy mashed potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a delicious side dish for many dinner meals. How do you make the perfect mash with a creamy consistency? Use this trick.
Mashed potatoes, although a simple dish, frequently appear on our tables due to their versatility and ease of preparation, paired with excellent taste. So, how do you make mashed potatoes? The recipe is straightforward.
Mashed potatoes: the recipe for the perfect side dish
What is needed to make mashed potatoes? A key aspect of preparing mashed potatoes is choosing the right type of potatoes. Type B or C potatoes have high starch content giving the mash a velvety and fluffy consistency. Potatoes that are too moist can affect the quality of the dish, so it's worth performing a simple test – rub potato halves together; if they stick, they are ideal for mashing.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg of type B or C potatoes
- 250 ml of milk
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- Salt
- Pepper
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
How to make mashed potatoes?
To prepare perfect mashed potatoes, first, peel the potatoes and cut them into even pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Boil the potatoes in salted water until soft - use a fork to check if they break easily. Once they reach the desired consistency, drain them and transfer them to a large bowl. Mash the potatoes with a masher, adding butter for a creamy consistency. Gradually pour in the milk, mixing until the mash becomes silky and smooth. Finally, season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you like. Stir everything thoroughly to combine all the flavours.
What to add to mashed potatoes?
There are many ways to enrich the flavour of the mash. You can enhance its aroma by adding the nutmeg mentioned in the recipe, as well as garlic or a pinch of Parmesan, which will add a unique character to the dish.
Additions can also change the appearance of the mash — adding kale or chopped chives will not only enrich the flavour but also add colour. Moreover, instead of milk, you can use sour cream or plain yogurt, which will give the dish creamy smoothness and a light acidity.
Mashed potatoes are not only a great side dish for meats but also an excellent base for many other dishes. Thanks to their creamy consistency, mash works wonderfully as an ingredient in casseroles, providing them with a light interior and creating an ideal base for various toppings, such as cheese or vegetables.
