Are you craving creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes but want to avoid dairy? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe delivers all the comforting goodness of classic mashed potatoes without a single drop of milk. It's surprisingly easy, incredibly delicious, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to experience the best of homemade cooking with this simple, healthy meal!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth (or water)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat work well) - optional, for extra creaminess
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter (or olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-high and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Drain and Return to Pot
Drain the potatoes thoroughly. Return the potatoes to the pot and let them steam for a few minutes to dry out slightly. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly fluffy mashed potatoes.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
Add the vegetable broth (or water), plant-based milk (if using), vegan butter (or olive oil), salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) to the pot. Using a potato masher or electric mixer, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. If you prefer some texture, mash less thoroughly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious dairy-free mashed potatoes immediately as a side dish to your favorite meal. They are fantastic with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even alongside some hearty vegetables for a complete and healthy meal.
Tips for Perfect Mashed Potatoes:
- Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes due to their high starch content.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked potatoes will become gummy. Cook until tender but not falling apart.
- Dry them out: Steaming the potatoes after draining helps to remove excess moisture and results in fluffier mashed potatoes.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize your mashed potatoes to your liking. Consider adding a sprinkle of chives or parsley for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Variations:
- Garlic lovers: Add a clove or two of roasted garlic for extra garlicky goodness.
- Herby delight: Stir in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy variation.
- Roasted potatoes: Roast the potatoes before mashing for a deeper, richer flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used. It’s always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise data based on your chosen ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 25-35g
- Protein: 3-5g
This easy recipe makes a healthy and delicious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a great quick dinner idea and showcases the best of homemade cooking. Enjoy creating this dairy-free delight!