Are you craving a comforting, delicious side dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this chunky mashed potato recipe! Forget those gluey, over-mashed potatoes of your past; this recipe delivers perfectly cooked, fluffy potatoes with delightful chunks of potato for added texture and flavor. It's the perfect accompaniment to roasts, stews, or even enjoyed on its own as a satisfying healthy meal. This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it one of the best recipes for quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (or vegan butter substitute)
- 1/4 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Boil the Potatoes: Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
-
Drain and Return to Pot: Drain the potatoes thoroughly. Return the potatoes to the pot and let them steam for a few minutes to evaporate excess moisture. This step is crucial for creating fluffy mashed potatoes.
-
Mash (Partially!): Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until they are mostly smooth but still retain some chunky pieces. Don't over-mash! The goal is a delightful balance of creamy texture and satisfying potato chunks.
-
Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: Add the warm milk, butter (or vegan butter), garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the pot. Gently stir to combine until everything is evenly distributed and the butter is melted. If using cheese, stir it in now.
-
Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chives.
Tips for Perfect Chunky Mashed Potatoes:
- Potato Choice Matters: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashing because of their creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor. Russet potatoes can also work, but they tend to become fluffier.
- Don't Over-Mash: Embrace the chunky texture! The key to success here is resisting the urge to completely smooth out the potatoes.
- Seasoning is Key: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to your preference. Freshly grated nutmeg adds a lovely warmth.
- Warm Milk/Butter: Using warm milk and butter helps create a smoother, creamier texture.
Variations:
- Roasted Garlic: For an extra layer of flavor, roast the garlic cloves before mincing them.
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs! Rosemary, thyme, or parsley would all be delicious additions.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Creamy Variations: For an even creamier result, incorporate a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on ingredients used and serving size. Nutritional information provided is an estimate and should be calculated using an online nutritional calculator once you've finalized the ingredients used. A general estimate for a standard serving may be in the range of:
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Protein: 5-7g
This easy recipe for chunky mashed potatoes is sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. It's a quick dinner idea, a delicious side dish, and a perfect way to showcase simple, quality ingredients. Enjoy!