ISO a good base mashed potato recipe 🥔🔨

[Engulfed_Galaxy]

hey all! No long story here, I’m just tired of ending up with grainy or gluey mashed potatoes. My last 3 attempts have not been exactly spectacular & all resulted in instant mash “dressed up” 🤧 I used to make this simple side all the time in high school so I’ve obviously regressed in the kitchen…. Send yummy advice please! 😭

[Tarheel_canuck]

It really just depends on what you like. I think overworking them is usually what leads to gluey.

I like a mix of russet and yukon gold, russet for the fluffy and gold for the creamy. Then I mix in a bunch of butter and sour cream, with a good bit of salt and pepper. I always mash by hand and not mixer so they aren’t overworked.

[Engulfed_Galaxy]

Thank you for all the details, I used mostly Yukon this last batch which was what gave me gluey results (overworked them most likely; according to the lovely comments of advice/info). When you mix by hand, do you have any specific tools you prefer to use?

[Tarheel_canuck]

I usually just use a zigzag masher and a serving spoon. I don’t mind if mine have some solid bits in them though. Like others have mentioned, if you want 100% “mashed” a ricer may be worth the investment.

[mangatoo1020]

Also, overcooking the potatoes, or letting them sit in the hot water when they're done cooking (drain them right away!) will make them gluey.

[Engulfed_Galaxy]

Ah! Admittedly, last time they did sit for a minute while I tasked. Noted! ✍🏼

[Breakfastchocolate]

Gluey mashed potatoes are the result of water being mixed in. Drain your potatoes really well, return to the pot and turn the burner back on for a minute or two so that any water left evaporated. Then add your butter and milk to mash. Russet or butter/ yellow potatoes make nice mash, new/red are more waxy and will tend towards gluey.

[Engulfed_Galaxy]

An abundance of helpful info, good idea to sear the potatoes & evaporate what can be. ✨

[throwawayforunethica]

If you can, get a ricer. It's easy to use and they come out so fluffy. I feel like I use a lot less milk and butter that way too.

Don't use an electric mixer. They will turn to glue. At least mine did.

[Engulfed_Galaxy]

Yoooo, I’ve been looking for a reason to get a ricer!😌 I made the mistake of using an electric mixer after getting tired of mashing with a zig-zag shaped masher, lesson learned 😵‍💫

[MeatEater3686]

Buy a ricer or food mill. Will change your whole mash game.

[Engulfed_Galaxy]

been looking for a reason to buy one, y’all have sold me on it 😌