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Mashed potatoes

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Carla G

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Mashed potatoes

by Carla G » Thu Feb 02, 2017 11:47 am

I know this is a simple question for those of you that cook more than I (as do many) but sometimes I just grow weary of my trial and error method and thought I would ask your (collectively) opinion.

I made simple, plain old mashed potatoes the other day using small yellow potatoes (like a Yukon Gold) and the potatoes turned out awful! Really gummy. Is there a rule of thumb for what kind of potato to use for mashed, fries, home fries, potato salad, soup, scalloped or whatever?
"She did not so much cook as assassinate food." - Storm Jameson
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Robin Garr

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Re: Mashed potatoes

by Robin Garr » Thu Feb 02, 2017 1:05 pm

Before we look at the potatoes, Carla, how did you mash them? If by any chance you used a Cuisinart or other food processor, that's the problem. That approach makes 'em gummy for sure. Ideally, Idaho-type potatoes are the best bakers, but there's no reason Yukon Golds shouldn't work.
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Carla G

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Re: Mashed potatoes

by Carla G » Thu Feb 02, 2017 2:22 pm

Just mashed them with a hand masher and a wee bit of half/half, butter, salt , pepper.
I normally use Idaho bakers and they usually work well. Maybe I over cooked them?
"She did not so much cook as assassinate food." - Storm Jameson
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RonnieD

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Re: Mashed potatoes

by RonnieD » Thu Feb 02, 2017 2:51 pm

Yeah, I usually go for a russet over a waxy yellow. Boil, then mash with a splash of buttermilk and salt and pepper. I prefer to leave the skin on.
Ronnie Dingman
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La Center, KY

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