How to Make Creamy Mashed Potatoes
August 15, 2024
Let’s make some creamy mashed potatoes with a potato ricer today. These potatoes are absolutely perfect with a hint of Rosemary from the infused cream we will be using. Let’s talk about some tips for success first.
Tips for Success:
- Choose the Right Potatoes:
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes because of their creamy texture and buttery flavor. Try to select potatoes of similar size for even cooking. - Salt the Water Generously:
Salting the water while boiling the potatoes ensures the potatoes are seasoned from the inside out. This step is crucial for flavorful mashed potatoes. - Cook Potatoes Evenly:
Start with cold water when boiling the potatoes. This ensures they cook evenly, avoiding the outside becoming mushy while the inside remains undercooked. - Dry the Potatoes:
After boiling, return the drained potatoes to the hot pot and cover them. This step helps to evaporate any excess moisture, leading to fluffier mashed potatoes. - Infuse the Milk:
Simmering the milk with garlic and rosemary infuses it with subtle flavors, which adds depth to the mashed potatoes. Be sure to strain the mixture to remove the solids before mixing it with the potatoes. - Avoid Over-Mixing:
Over-mixing the potatoes can cause them to become gluey. Gently mix in the milk mixture to achieve a smooth, creamy texture without overworking the potatoes. - Customize Consistency:
Add the milk mixture gradually until you reach your preferred consistency. You can make the potatoes as thick or creamy as you like by adjusting the amount of liquid added. - Reheat with Reserved Milk:
If you have leftover mashed potatoes, use the reserved milk mixture to reheat them gently. This helps restore the creamy texture.
Flavor Profile:
Creamy and Buttery: The combination of Yukon Gold potatoes, heavy cream, and butter creates a rich, velvety texture with a buttery flavor.
Herbaceous and Aromatic: The infusion of rosemary adds a subtle herbal note that complements the earthy flavor of the potatoes without overpowering them.
Mild Garlic Essence: The simmered garlic provides a gentle hint of garlic, adding depth to the dish without overwhelming the other flavors.
Balanced Saltiness: Generously salting the boiling water and adjusting the seasoning at the end ensures a well-balanced flavor profile, with just the right amount of saltiness to enhance the natural taste of the potatoes.
These mashed potatoes are a comforting side dish with a sophisticated flavor profile, perfect for pairing with a wide variety of main courses.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Serves Six
Ingredients:
10 yellow Yukon potatoes (preferably all similar size)
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 heaping tablespoon butter
1 peeled garlic clove
1 sprig rosemary
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Potatoes:
Scrub the potatoes well and place them in a large pot filled with cold water.
Generously salt the water.
Cook the Potatoes:
Bring the pot to a boil and cook the potatoes for 25 to 30 minutes, or until you can easily pierce them with a fork.
Turn off the heat. Remove the potatoes from the pot and discard the water.
Return the potatoes to the pot and cover them to keep warm. Allow the potatoes to dry slightly.
Prepare the Milk Mixture:
In a small pan, combine the milk, heavy cream, butter, garlic clove, and rosemary.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Strain the milk mixture into a measuring cup, discarding the garlic and rosemary.
Mash the Potatoes:
Taste the potatoes for salt and adjust as necessary.
Begin adding the milk mixture to the potatoes, 1/2 cup at a time, and mix gently. Avoid over-beating the potatoes to prevent them from becoming gluey.
Continue adding the milk until you achieve your desired consistency. Reserve any leftover milk mixture for reheating any leftover mashed potatoes.
Serve:
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade mashed potatoes!