Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic and comforting side dish, perfect for accompanying many dishes. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 kg floury potatoes
• 100 ml whole milk
• 50 g butter
• Salt, to taste
• Nutmeg (optional)

Preparation

1. Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into equal-sized pieces so that they cook evenly.
2. Place the potatoes in a pot with plenty of cold water and a pinch of salt, then bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are very soft and easily pierced with a fork.
3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the empty pot, letting them dry for a minute over low heat to remove any excess water.
4. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or food mill until you get a smooth consistency without lumps.
5. In a small saucepan, heat the milk with the butter until the butter has melted. Do not let the milk boil.
6. Gradually add the hot milk and melted butter to the mashed potatoes, stirring with a wooden spoon or whisk until the consistency becomes creamy. If necessary, add more milk to make the mash softer.
7. Adjust the salt and, if you like, add a pinch of grated nutmeg to further flavor the mash.
8. Serve hot as a side dish for meat or fish dishes.

Trivia

Mashed potatoes are a preparation with very ancient origins; similar recipes can already be found in cookbooks from the 1700s. Its simplicity and creaminess have made it a classic in kitchens around the world, with regional variations that include the addition of cheese, aromatic herbs, or other seasonings.