Ingredients
2 pounds starchy potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work beautifully)
Steamer basket
Large pot with a lid
Warm milk, cream, or melted butter (for mashing)
Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make It
Prep the Potatoes:
Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks for consistent cooking.
Set Up the Steamer:
Fill your pot with about an inch of water. Place the steamer basket inside, making sure the water doesn’t touch the basket’s bottom.
Steam the Potatoes:
Add the potatoes to the basket. Cover the pot and steam over medium-low heat until the potatoes are fork-tender and easily break apart.
Mash to Perfection:
Transfer the hot potatoes to a bowl. Add warm milk, cream, or butter. Mash or rice the potatoes until smooth.
Tip: Avoid using a food processor or electric mixer, which can make the potatoes gummy.
Method 2: Baked Potato Purée
Ingredients
2 pounds starchy potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
Aluminum foil (optional)
Warm milk, cream, or melted butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make It
Prep the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean but leave the skins on for maximum flavor.
Bake the Potatoes:
Place potatoes directly on the oven rack for crisp skins, or wrap them in foil for a softer exterior.
Bake for 45–60 minutes, until the potatoes yield easily to a fork.
Scoop and Mash:
Let baked potatoes cool slightly, then cut them in half. Scoop the fluffy insides into a bowl.
Add warm milk, cream, or butter, and mash until smooth. Baking caramelizes natural sugars, giving the purée a delicious depth of flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Mashed Potato Purée
✅ Choose Starchy Potatoes: Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes yield the fluffiest, creamiest purée.
✅ Warm Your Add-Ins: Always use warm milk, cream, or butter. Cold ingredients can cause lumps.
✅ Season as You Go: Adding salt during cooking and mashing builds layers of flavor.
✅ Don’t Overmix: Overworking potatoes releases excess starch, creating a gluey texture.
Flavor Variations
Garlic Lovers: Add roasted or steamed garlic cloves for a savory twist.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in grated Parmesan, cheddar, or your favorite cheese.
Herbaceous Finish: Fold in fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme for vibrant flavor.
In Conclusion
By skipping the boiling water, you’ll unlock a whole new level of mashed potato magic. Steaming and baking are simple methods that preserve the potatoes’ natural taste and deliver a creamy, luxurious purée every time.
Say goodbye to watery mashed potatoes and hello to pure, velvety goodness. Try these techniques for your next meal — and get ready for mashed potatoes like you’ve never tasted before!