Are you tired of the same old boring mashed potatoes? Ready to elevate your side dish game? Then look no further! This Fingerling Mashed Potato recipe is about to become your new favorite. Forget everything you thought you knew about mashed potatoes – these are creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's one of those easy recipes that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fingerling potatoes, scrubbed and halved (or quartered if large)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place the fingerling potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. 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.
Step 2: Drain and Mash
Drain the potatoes thoroughly. Return the potatoes to the pot and add the milk (or cream), butter, and minced garlic. Using a potato masher or electric mixer, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. If using an electric mixer, start on low speed and gradually increase to avoid splattering.
Step 3: Season and Serve
Stir in the salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You can add a little more milk or cream if you prefer a looser consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chives if desired.
Tips for the Best Fingerling Mashed Potatoes:
- Choose the right potatoes: Fingerling potatoes have a unique flavor and texture that make them perfect for mashing. Their smaller size means they cook more evenly.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked potatoes will become mushy. Check for doneness frequently to avoid this.
- Use good quality butter: The butter adds richness and flavor. Don't skimp on this ingredient!
- Get creative with seasonings: Experiment with different herbs and spices. Roasted garlic, rosemary, or thyme would all be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roast a head of garlic before mincing it for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Mashed Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyere after mashing.
- Herb Mashed Potatoes: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, thyme or rosemary.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This recipe for delicious and healthy mashed potatoes is perfect for a quick dinner idea, offering a homemade cooking experience that's both easy and satisfying. Serve as a comforting side dish with your favorite protein and vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. Enjoy!