Mustard Mashed Potatoes

A Twist on Tradition: My Mustard Mashed Potato Adventure

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights often blur into a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the never-ending cycle of laundry. But even amidst the chaos, I crave moments of culinary creativity, moments that remind me of simpler times and the joy of sharing a good meal with my family. This is where these Mustard Mashed Potatoes came in. I stumbled upon this recipe, a delightful twist on a classic, and knew I had to try it.

The original recipe promised a creamy, dreamy experience, achieved by boiling the potatoes directly in milk and cream instead of water. This innovative technique intrigued me. I envisioned fluffy, flavorful potatoes, a perfect accompaniment to any roast or grilled protein. But the most exciting part? The addition of coarse-grain mustard. A simple, yet brilliant addition that elevates these mashed potatoes from ordinary to extraordinary. The sharp, tangy notes of the mustard beautifully cut through the richness of the cream, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No complicated techniques or obscure ingredients are required. Just a few readily available staples from your pantry. Yukon Gold potatoes are my preference – their creamy texture and subtle sweetness are ideal for mashing. But any starchy potato will work. And that’s one of the wonderful things about mashed potatoes – the versatility they offer. I've experimented with different milk types, occasionally substituting whole milk for buttermilk for a tangier flavor, and a slightly lower calorie count. Sometimes I even add a touch of roasted garlic to the milk mixture for an extra layer of flavour complexity.

The process itself is quite straightforward. You boil the potatoes in the milk and cream, ensuring they are cooked through and tender. Then, the magic begins. The creamy liquid from boiling becomes the perfect medium for mashing, resulting in an incredibly smooth and luscious texture. This is a technique I plan to employ more often in my cooking repertoire. Not only is it efficient, but it also infuses the potatoes with an irresistible creaminess.

As I stirred in the coarse-grain mustard, my kitchen filled with the delightful aroma of warm potatoes, creamy milk and spicy mustard. It was a simple act, yet profoundly satisfying. The transformation from ordinary boiled potatoes to these elevated mashed potatoes was almost magical. It was the kind of moment that makes you appreciate the simplicity of good food and the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch.

These mustard mashed potatoes have quickly become a staple in my home. They're perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a more formal occasion. Their versatility allows them to be paired with almost any main course, from juicy roasts and grilled chicken to simple pan-seared fish. And they're just as delicious served warm as leftovers the next day. Honestly, the flavor improves as the mustard seems to meld beautifully with the potato creaminess.

More than just a side dish, these mashed potatoes are a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a touch of culinary creativity. They're a reminder that even amidst the chaos of everyday life, there's always time for a little culinary adventure. And they're a surefire way to bring a touch of comfort and joy to any meal.

This recipe is a keeper, a testament to how a few simple adjustments can elevate a classic dish to new heights. I encourage you to try it. I have a feeling you'll be just as delighted with the results as I was. So, next time you're looking for a side dish that's both simple and spectacular, look no further than these incredible Mustard Mashed Potatoes.

Pro Tip: If you're short on time, you can partially boil the potatoes ahead of time and complete the mashing right before serving. The leftovers are perfect for using the next day – simply add a little more warm milk/cream to loosen them up!

Step-by-step

• Scrub unpeeled potatoes, add to pot along with enough milk to cover potatoes halfway.
• Add enough cream to completely cover the potatoes.
• Also add peeled/crushed garlic cloves and thyme.
• Bring to a boil and cook until tender.
• When potatoes are done, drain them in a colander under which a large bowl has been placed.
• Place potatoes back into the cooking pot.
• Mash potatoes.
• Add cupfuls of the hot milk/cream as you mash, until you reach desired consistency.
• Add a pat of butter and salt and pepper to taste.
• Fold in two heaping tablespoons of course-grain mustard.
• Any leftover milk/cream can be used to "revive" your potatoes in case you end up with late dinner guests or if you have leftovers.