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Skip the plain water. Instead, simmer your potatoes in broth or milk. This adds flavor directly to the potatoes while cooking.
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Place the potatoes in a pot, cover with broth (or a mix of broth and milk), and simmer gently — not a rapid boil — until tender (about 15–20 minutes).
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Drain most (but not all) of the liquid, reserving about 1/4 cup to mash with.
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Add butter, reserved liquid, and cream. Mash until smooth and creamy.
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Season with salt, pepper, and any additional mix-ins like roasted garlic or chives.
Serving and Storage Tips:
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Serve immediately while hot and creamy. Mashed potatoes tend to firm up as they cool.
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To keep warm before serving, place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler style).
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
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Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the texture.
Variants:
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Herb-Infused Broth: Simmer potatoes in broth with thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for a subtle herbal flavor.
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Garlic Lover’s Mash: Add a few peeled garlic cloves to the pot for garlicky goodness.
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Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in grated parmesan, cheddar, or cream cheese for extra indulgence.
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Butter Bomb: Brown the butter before adding for a nutty, rich taste.
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Plant-Based Version: Use unsweetened oat or almond milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative.
FAQ:
Q1: Why is boiling in water bad for mashed potatoes?
A: Water draws out starch and natural potato flavor, leaving them bland and sometimes gluey in texture if overmixed. Using broth or milk adds flavor and better consistency.
Q2: What’s the best potato for mashing?
A: Yukon Gold for creaminess and slight butteriness, or Russet for fluffiness.
Q3: Can I still use water if I don’t have broth or milk?
A: You can, but salt the water well and consider adding flavor with butter, garlic, or herbs during the mashing process.
Q4: What causes gluey mashed potatoes?
A: Overworking the potatoes, especially with an electric mixer or food processor. Mash gently and only until smooth.
Q5: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, but reheat slowly and stir in a bit of milk or cream to restore creaminess.
Conclusion
Boiling potatoes in plain water might be tradition — but it’s not the tastiest choice. If you want creamy, rich, and flavorful mashed potatoes that impress every time, cook them in broth or milk instead. Small change, huge results.
