Make the best mashed potatoes ever by avoiding the pitfalls that cause gummy, soggy and cold mashed potatoes.
While they may not be the star of the show, mashed potatoes are an essential part ofThanksgivingdinner.
But evensimple sidescan take a turn south if you don’t follow a few rules.
Mistake to Avoid No.
It’s always a good idea to scrub your potatoes, even if you’re planning to peel them.
You’ll also want to remove any “eyes” from the potatoes.
Cutting them out with the tip of a small knife is the best way to get rid of them.
And if all or part of your potatoes are green?
Pictured Recipe:Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
Mistake to Avoid No.
2: Gummy Mashed Potatoes
You want your mashed potatoes smooth and silky, not thick and chewy.
If the latter is the case, you’ve got gummy potatoes.
It’s a less-than-ideal result, and it’s pretty common.
Why does it happen?
You could be using the wrong potatoes.
Potatoes are generally considered “waxy” or “starchy.”
Choose starchy potatoes or a mixture of waxy and starchy potatoes.
But be warned: Even starchy potatoes can turn to a sticky paste if they’re overworked.
Don’t overmix the potatoes!
For mashed potatoes that are smooth without being gummy, a potato ricer is your best bet.
Pictured Recipe:Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mistake to Avoid No.
double-check that your potatoes are all cut roughly the same size so they cook at the same rate.
And unlike pasta, potatoes should be started incoldwater.
If you’ve got lumps, don’t panic.
And also, don’t keep mixing because that could make your potatoes gummy as well.
Pictured Recipe:Bacon Mashed Potatoes
Mistake to Avoid No.
4: Soggy Mashed Potatoes
You wanted fluffy, but you got soggy instead?
Potatoes cook best when they’re boiled gently, not vigorously.
Keep the lid off the pan when you’re cooking them to monitor the boil.
If your potatoes are soggy, what can you do?
Remember: Don’t continue to stir them, or they will become pasty.
Mistake to Avoid No.
Heat your butter and milk together until the butter is melted and the milk is steaming.
Pictured Recipe:Sauteed Leek Mashed Potatoes
Mistake to Avoid No.
We would advise against it.
Potatoes suck in waterandsalt while cooking.
Add salt while you’re mixing, and taste as you go.
No more potatoes on hand?
Try adding some mashed cauliflower or root vegetables to the mix.
A foolproof method is choosing the right potato jot down that mashes well.
Additionally, you may want to incorporate other vegetables into the mash if they’re too salty.
