Mashed potatoes

Delicious mashed potato recipe with parsley – a simple, quick, and creamy side dish

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Mashed potatoes are one of those classic side dishes that never go out of style. The smooth creaminess and rich flavor make them perfect to accompany a multitude of main courses, from roasts to grilled vegetables. Here’s how to achieve perfect mashed potatoes, with a touch of freshness from parsley.

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g potatoes (choose floury potatoes, which are high in starch)
- 150 ml milk (preferably whole for a richer taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- A handful of fresh parsley (optional, but recommended for extra flavor and color)

Step by step to perfect mashed potatoes:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes. Use a sharp knife, and to avoid injury, make sure you have a stable working surface. After peeling, wash them well under cold water to remove any impurities.

2. Cutting the potatoes: Cut the potatoes into cubes of about 3-4 cm. This will ensure even boiling. If you wish, you can cut them smaller to reduce cooking time.

3. Boiling the potatoes: Place the potato cubes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a teaspoon of salt, which will help enhance the flavor of the potatoes. Bring the water to a boil and let them cook for 15-20 minutes, until they are soft and can be easily pierced with a fork.

4. Draining and mashing: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well using a colander. It’s important not to leave them in water for too long, as they can absorb moisture, which will affect the texture of the mash. Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the potatoes until they become a smooth paste.

5. Adding the milk: Start gradually incorporating the warm milk into the potato mash. This step is essential for achieving a creamy consistency. Add salt to taste and mix well until the mash becomes homogeneous and airy.

6. Finishing with parsley: Finely chop the fresh parsley and fold it into the mash. This will not only add a touch of freshness but will also provide a vibrant color that will make the side dish more appealing.

Practical tips:
- You can also add a tablespoon of butter for extra richness and flavor.
- If you like a more flavorful mash, try adding a bit of crushed garlic during the boiling of the potatoes.
- For a dairy-free option, replace the milk with almond or soy milk, and the butter with olive oil.

Serving suggestion: Mashed potatoes are perfect alongside beef or chicken roasts, but they can also serve as the base for a delicious shepherd’s pie or a cheesy sauce mash.

Now that you have the complete and detailed recipe, all that’s left is to get cooking! With these tips, you’ll achieve creamy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious mashed potatoes, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!