How to Make Basic Mashed Potatoes, by mahalodotcom on YouTube. 4 min 14 s.
- Video length
- 4 min 14 s
- Time to do it
- 35 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Peel 2 pounds of potatoes and cut them into 1-inch chunks. Russet potatoes give a light, fluffy mash and Yukon Gold give a creamier one.
Put the chunks in a large pot and cover them with cold water by about an inch. Add a generous pinch of salt.
Set the pot over high heat and bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat to a steady simmer.
Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until a knife slides into a chunk with no resistance.
Drain the potatoes in a colander over the sink and keep a splash of the cooking water in case you need it. Tip the pot away from you and watch the steam.
Return the drained potatoes to the warm pot and let them sit for a minute so the extra moisture steams off.
Mash with a potato masher until mostly smooth, then stir in 4 tablespoons of butter.
Add about 1/2 cup of warm milk a little at a time, mashing after each splash until smooth and creamy.
Taste and stir in salt and pepper, then serve right away while hot.
Tips and common mistakes
Warm the milk and soften the butter before you start so the potatoes stay hot while you mash.
Never use a blender or food processor, because it breaks down the starch and turns the potatoes gluey.
Salt the cooking water well, since that seasons the potatoes all the way through.
Mash while the potatoes are still hot, because cold potatoes turn stiff and lumpy.
Questions
Which potatoes make the best mash?
Russets turn out light and fluffy, while Yukon Golds come out creamier and richer. Avoid waxy red potatoes, which turn gummy when mashed.
Why are my mashed potatoes gluey?
Overmashing or using a food processor releases too much starch. Mash by hand with a masher and stop as soon as the lumps are gone.
Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes. Keep them warm in a covered bowl set over simmering water, or reheat them gently with a splash of milk and a stir.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
