Mashers

Mashers Recipe - A Delicious Vegetarian Dish for a Complete Meal

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mashers are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed on their own or as a side dish to complement a variety of meals. This recipe combines the creaminess of Russet potatoes with the texture of Red potatoes, creating a delicious and satisfying dish.

History

Mashed potatoes have been a staple in many cultures for centuries. The exact origins of mashed potatoes are unclear, but they are believed to have originated in Europe, where potatoes were first introduced in the 16th century. Over time, mashed potatoes have become a beloved dish enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ingredients

4 russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
8 red potatoes, cut into chunks roughly the same size as the russet chunks
1 to 2 tsp of kosher salt
0.75 cup of low fat buttermilk (not skim)
0.25 cup of heavy cream
6 to 8 cloves of garlic, peeled

How to prepare

To make mashed potatoes, start by using a combination of peeled Russet potatoes and unpeeled Red Potatoes. The Russets will give a velvety consistency, while the Reds will provide some chunks for contrast.
Place the potatoes in a pot and add hot water, just enough to cover them. Adding more water will slow down the cooking process.
Add salt to the water to enhance the flavor of the potatoes. Heat the pot on high heat with the lid on to bring it to a boil faster.
Mashed potatoes require dairy and fat for richness. Use low-fat buttermilk for tanginess and texture, and a small amount of whipping cream to carry the garlic flavor and prevent the sauce from breaking.
Add approximately 0.25 cup of dairy per pound of potatoes. Simmer the mixture for about 15 minutes until the garlic is soft, making sure not to let it boil.
Once the potatoes come to a boil, cook them for a couple more minutes until they are easily crumbled when squeezed with tongs.
Drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot for mashing. Use a potato masher to mash the potatoes, being careful not to overdo it and lose the chunky texture.
Add a little bit of the dairy mixture at a time while mashing, being cautious not to make the potatoes too soupy.
Adjust the amount of the mixture based on personal preference. The mashed potatoes should have a creamy texture with visible chunks.
For added flavor, consider incorporating leftovers from your refrigerator such as sautéed onions, sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, or bacon.
Serve the mashed potatoes as a rustic dish or divide them into separate bowls for a mashed potato party.

Variations

Add cheese for a cheesy mashed potato dish.
Mix in roasted garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
Top with crispy bacon or fried onions for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use a combination of Russet and Red potatoes for the best texture and flavor.

- Be careful not to over-mash the potatoes, as this can result in a gluey consistency.

- Add the dairy mixture slowly to achieve the desired creamy texture.

- Experiment with different mix-ins to customize the flavor of your mashed potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve mashed potatoes as a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or meatloaf. They also pair well with sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the potatoes until they are easily crumbled with tongs.

- Mash the potatoes using a potato masher for a rustic texture.

- Add the dairy mixture slowly to achieve the desired consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole milk or almond milk instead of buttermilk.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for heavy cream.

- Use Yukon Gold potatoes instead of Russet and Red potatoes.

Make Ahead Tips

Mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve mashed potatoes in a large bowl or divide them into individual serving dishes. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair mashed potatoes with a hearty main dish such as pot roast, meatloaf, or grilled chicken. They also pair well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of mashed potatoes contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of mashed potatoes contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of mashed potatoes contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of mashed potatoes contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Mashed potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy.

Summary

Mashers are a delicious and satisfying dish that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. However, they do contain dairy, so individuals with dairy allergies should take caution.

Summary

Mashers are a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed on their own or as a side dish. This recipe combines the creaminess of Russet potatoes with the texture of Red potatoes, creating a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was scribbled on a yellowed piece of paper, tucked away in an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. The title simply read "Mashers," and as I read through the list of ingredients and instructions, I knew I had to try it.

I had always been drawn to the kitchen, ever since I was a little girl watching my own mother and grandmother cook up delicious meals for our family. I loved the way the aromas would fill the kitchen, the sizzle of food cooking on the stove, and the joy that came from sharing a meal with loved ones. Cooking had always been a way for me to express my creativity and show my love for those around me.

As I read through the recipe for Mashers, I could tell that it was a special dish. It called for simple ingredients - potatoes, butter, milk, salt, and pepper - but the method of preparation was what intrigued me. The potatoes were to be boiled until tender, then mashed with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. It seemed like such a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for warming the soul on a cold winter's day.

I decided to give the recipe a try one Sunday afternoon when my family was coming over for dinner. I carefully followed the instructions, boiling the potatoes until they were soft and then mashing them with butter and milk until they were velvety smooth. The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to serve it to my family.

When my guests arrived, they were greeted with the delicious scent of Mashers wafting from the kitchen. I proudly served up the dish alongside a roast chicken and some steamed vegetables, and as my family took their first bites, I could see the smiles of satisfaction on their faces. The Mashers were a hit, and my family raved about how creamy and flavorful they were.

From that day on, Mashers became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make them for special occasions, holidays, or just as a comforting side dish on a weeknight. I loved the simplicity of the recipe and how it could be easily adapted with different seasonings or additions like garlic, herbs, or cheese.

Over the years, I continued to perfect my recipe for Mashers, tweaking it here and there to make it just right. I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all fell in love with the dish just as I had. It became a beloved tradition in our household, a dish that brought us all together and warmed our hearts.

As I look back on that first time I saw the recipe for Mashers, I am filled with gratitude for the joy and memories that cooking has brought to my life. It has been a way for me to connect with my heritage, to honor the traditions of my family, and to share my love with those around me. And the best part is, I know that the legacy of Mashers will live on, passed down to future generations who will continue to enjoy this simple yet delicious dish.

So the next time you're in the mood for a comforting and hearty side dish, give Mashers a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. Just remember to cook with love and share with those you hold dear, for that is the true secret ingredient in any recipe.