Mashed Potatoes

Here is a basic recipe for mashed potatoes. Beneath the instructions are ideas of how to add a little more flavor or texture, if desired.

Ingredients (about 5 servings):

• 4 medium Russet potatoes (scrubbed well), chopped
• water
• 4 Tbsp. butter
• 1/2 C milk
• salt and pepper to taste (about 1/4 tsp. of each)

Instructions:

1. Wash/scrub potatoes and chop them into evenly-sized cubes. Place in medium pot.
2. Fill pot with water to barely cover the potatoes.
3. Bring to a boil. Let boil on medium-high heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until you can poke them easily with a fork and they feel soft enough to mash.
4. Drain out the water and remove from heat.
5. Add butter.
6. Mash the potatoes.
7. Add milk, salt, and pepper. Stir.

Other things to try:

• Add 1 tsp. garlic powder for garlicky mashed potatoes.
• Add about 1/4 or 1/2 C. grated cheese for cheesy mashed potatoes.
• Add about 1 Tbsp. all-purpose flour for thicker mashed potatoes.
• Add 1-2 Tbsp. sour cream and about 2 Tbsp. chopped green onions for the sour cream and onion taste.
• If you like super creamy mashed potatoes, then you can blend or use an electric mixer to mix the mashed potatoes.
• Add a can of corn, peas, or green beans to add some color (and more nutrients).
• Add some rosemary, thyme, or parsley for mashed potatoes with herbs.
• Add about 1 Tbsp. mayonnaise for a creamier consistency and a different taste.
• Top the mashed potatoes with homemade or canned chili to spice them up a bit.

These always come out delicious. Try them next Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner!