Mashed Potatoes

Mashed Potatoes, while a common side dish for many meals, are mandatory for a complete Thanksgiving meal. Mom always made real mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving. Because mashed potatoes are so easy to make, there is no excuse for using boxed potato flakes.

Homemade mashed potatoes should be slightly lumpy, so don't worry about any lumps that might remain after mashing. Also, this recipe is very simple: potatoes, butter, and milk. It is easy to multiply to feed more or reduce down to a single serving. Decreasing the milk will result in stiffer mashed potatoes. Mom always peeled the potatoes, but sometimes a bit of peel adds a nice touch, so consider skipping the peel step or partially peel the potatoes. There are recipes that include fancier ingredients, such as, heavy cream, chicken stock, sour cream, or cream cheese. Those recipes are just fine, but Mom usually kept it simple.

Mashed Potatoes

• 4 medium potatoes
• 2-3 Tbsp. butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• salt and pepper to taste

Peel the potatoes and cut into 1-inch cubes. Place the potato cubes in pot and cover with water. Bring the potatoes to a boil, then reduce heat and cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, until the potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork. Drain the water from the potatoes and place the potatoes into a bowl.

Using a potato masher or a fork, begin to mash the potatoes. Then add the butter and continue to mash, until the potatoes are mostly mashed. Then add in milk and mix well. Use enough milk to obtain the desired consistency. Mix in salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy!