– **Title**: Garlic Mashed Potatoes
– **Ingredients**:
– 2 pounds potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cut into chunks
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for richer flavor)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– Salt, to taste
– Black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
– **Instructions**:
1. Place the peeled and cut potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
2. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes).
3. While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.
4. Once the potatoes are done, drain them well and return them to the pot.
5. Pour in the garlic butter mixture, milk (or heavy cream), and season with salt and pepper.
6. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or a ricer until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
8. Serve warm as a side dish. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for mashing because they’re starchy and fluffy. If you can’t find them, Yukon Gold potatoes work well too, offering a creamier texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a lovely punch to these mashed potatoes. If you want to tone it down, roasted garlic adds a sweeter, milder flavor. Besides, feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste!
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred here because you can better control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using olive oil or even a dairy-free butter substitute. It will still taste rich and delicious!
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess, but you could use heavy cream for a richer texture or non-dairy milk for a lactose-free option. Just keep in mind the flavor might change a bit!
Chives: Chives add a fresh touch at the end. If you don’t have any, parsley or green onions can be a good alternative, adding color and a bit of flavor.
How Do I Achieve the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes?
Getting perfectly creamy mashed potatoes is all about technique. Start by boiling the potatoes until they are tender. Drain them well, as excess water can lead to a watery mash.
- Always return the potatoes to the hot pot after draining; the residual heat helps evaporate any moisture.
- Use a potato masher or a ricer for a smooth texture; food processors can make potatoes gluey, so avoid them.
- Mix in the butter and milk while the potatoes are still warm to ensure everything blends nicely.
- Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed; it makes a big difference!
Remember, don’t rush this step—take your time and make them just how you like! Enjoy your garlic mashed potatoes!
How to Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Chives, finely chopped for garnish
- Optional: additional butter for topping
For Garnish:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, followed by 15-20 minutes cooking the potatoes and garlic. Then, a quick mash and mix will finish the dish. Just be ready to enjoy the delicious aroma as you cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Potatoes and Garlic:
Start by placing the cubed potatoes and smashed garlic cloves in a large pot. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the potatoes and add a pinch of salt. Turn the heat to high and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can easily be pierced with a fork.
2. Drain and Prepare to Mash:
Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain the water away. Return the drained potatoes and garlic back into the pot. Be careful, as the pot may be hot!
3. Mash the Potatoes:
Add the unsalted butter and milk to the hot potatoes. With a potato masher, start mashing them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. It might take a bit of elbow grease, but the result will be so worth it!
4. Season and Serve:
Now it’s time to season your mashed potatoes! Add salt and black pepper to taste, mixing well. If you like, you can now add a bit of additional butter on top of your mashed potatoes for an extra rich flavor. Transfer the creamy garlic mashed potatoes to a serving bowl, sprinkle with the chopped chives for garnish, and serve warm. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes give a fluffy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier consistency. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check tenderness as you go.
What If I Don’t Have Whole Milk?
No worries! You can substitute whole milk with any milk you have on hand, such as 2% or skim milk. For a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half or cream, but reduce the amount slightly to avoid overly rich mashed potatoes.
How Can I Make Garlic Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the mashed potatoes ahead by following all the steps and then storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or butter to keep them creamy.
Can I Add Other Ingredients for More Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in sour cream, cream cheese, or even roasted garlic for an extra kick. Herbs like rosemary or parsley can also be delicious additions. Just fold them in gently after mashing!
