Welcome to the world of perfect mashed potatoes! Creamy, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious, this classic dish is a staple in many kitchens. Whether you're looking for a comforting side dish for your holiday feast or a simple yet satisfying meal, mashed potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we'll share Chef John's renowned recipe for perfect mashed potatoes, along with some creative variations to tantalize your taste buds. From the classic butter and milk combination to exciting flavor infusions like roasted garlic, herbs, and even bacon, these recipes will elevate your mashed potatoes to a whole new level. So, grab your potatoes, fire up the stove, and let's embark on a culinary journey that will redefine your mashed potato experience.
Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!
CHEF JOHN'S TWICE-BAKED POTATOES
When entertaining guests on special occasions, don't forget that you're putting on a show with the food. And, when it comes to starchy side dishes, these potatoes are a great way to express flair for the dramatic.
Provided by Chef John
Categories Side Dish Potato Side Dish Recipes Twice Baked Potato Recipes
Time 2h
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Rub potatoes with vegetable oil and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven until a paring knife easily inserts into the center of a potato, about 1 hour. Set aside to cool until easy to handle, about 10 minutes.
- Cut 1/3 off each potato lengthwise. Scoop flesh from each potato to within about 1/8-inch of the skins. Transfer flesh to a bowl.
- Combine potato flesh with butter and green onion; stir until butter is melted evenly into potato. Add salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and cheese; stir until cheese is melted. Pour cream and egg yolk into potato mixture; mix to combine. Season with salt to taste.
- Place small piece of potato skin inside the bottom of each larger potato shell. Fill each potato with an equal amount of cheese mixture. Gently press the surface of the filling with a fork to create texture. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake stuffed potatoes until golden brown on top, 20 to 30 minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 581.1 calories, Carbohydrate 66.1 g, Cholesterol 137.3 mg, Fat 31 g, Fiber 8.4 g, Protein 12.5 g, SaturatedFat 17.9 g, Sodium 205.3 mg, Sugar 3 g
CHEF JOHN'S ULTIMATE MASHED POTATOES
Forgot those low-fat or no-fat options... holiday mashed potatoes are supposed to have a ridiculous amount of butter in them! Eating a scoop of these potatoes a few times a year is a well-deserved treat. Garnish with chives if desired.
Provided by Chef John
Categories Mashed Potatoes
Time 45m
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Peel potatoes and cut into quarters. Transfer to a bowl of cold water and rinse to remove starch. Drain and transfer to a pot of cold water. Very generously salt the water and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are soft and the tip of a knife goes in easily, 20 to 25 minutes.
- While the potatoes are cooking, cut butter in chunks and let come to room temperature.
- Drain potatoes thoroughly and return to the pot. Set over medium-low heat and mash with a potato masher until potatoes. Season with salt and pepper and add ¼ of the softened butter chunks. Mash until butter just about disappears.
- Add another 1/4 of the butter and mix with a wire whisk until it just about disappears. Whisk in the remaining butter in 2 additions as before; potatoes will be light and creamy after all the butter has been mixed in.
- Whisk in hot milk until incorporated. Add cayenne and more salt if needed. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 556.4 calories, Carbohydrate 33.7 g, Cholesterol 122.6 mg, Fat 46.3 g, Fiber 2.4 g, Protein 4.7 g, SaturatedFat 29.3 g, Sodium 18.6 mg
Tips:
- Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes: Yukon Golds are creamier, while Russets are fluffier. Combining them creates the perfect balance of creaminess and fluffiness.
- Peel and cut potatoes evenly: This ensures they cook evenly.
- Add salt to the water: This helps the potatoes retain their flavor.
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will be gluey and bland.
- Drain the potatoes thoroughly: Excess water will make the potatoes watery and bland.
- Use a potato ricer or food mill: This will create smooth and fluffy potatoes.
- Add butter, milk, and cream while the potatoes are still hot: This will help them absorb the flavors better.
- Season the potatoes to taste: Use salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or chives: This will add a pop of color and freshness.
Conclusion:
Perfect mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. By following the tips in this article, you can easily make perfect mashed potatoes at home. Whether you are serving them as a side dish or as the main course, these mashed potatoes are sure to be a hit. So next time you are craving mashed potatoes, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
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