Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic mashed potatoes. They offer a combination of creamy texture and herby flavors, making them a perfect side dish for any meal. Imagine a creamy, buttery base enriched with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs. This recipe will show you how easy it is to create a dish that your family and friends will ask for again and again.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

One of the best things about Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes is how versatile they are. You can serve them with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even as a part of a vegetarian meal. The flavor profile is rich yet simple, as the garlic and herbs elevate the natural taste of the potatoes. Plus, this recipe is quite straightforward. You do not need to be a skilled chef to make them. These mashed potatoes are creamy, flavorful, and comforting, making them a dish that everyone loves.

Another reason to love this recipe is that it uses fresh ingredients. The garlic roasted in the oven becomes sweet and soft, providing a rich flavor that is different from raw garlic. The addition of parsley and dill adds a fresh touch, making each bite exciting. Lastly, they are a crowd-pleaser that fits into any occasion, making them a perfect addition to your recipe collection.

HOW TO MAKE Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Making Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes is quite simple. Follow these easy instructions, and you’ll have a delicious side dish ready for your family or guests.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you will need:

• A large pot for boiling potatoes
• A baking dish for roasting garlic
• Aluminum foil
• A fork for mashing
• A spatula for folding in the herbs
• A measuring cup for the milk and a tablespoon for measuring butter and herbs
• A knife for cutting garlic and potatoes

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 head garlic, small
• 6 medium potatoes
• Salt to taste
• 50ml/1/4 cup hot whole milk
• 100g/1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1-2 tbsp parsley
• 1-2 tbsp dill

 

 

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200C (400F). This is the perfect temperature for roasting garlic.
2. Prepare the Garlic: Take a small head of garlic and cut the top off to expose the cloves. Wrap the head of garlic in aluminum foil to keep it from burning.
3. Bake the Garlic: Place the wrapped garlic in the oven. Bake it for 45-50 minutes until the cloves are very soft and fragrant.
4. Cool the Garlic: Once baked, take the garlic out of the oven and let it cool. This will make it easier to squeeze out the soft garlic cloves later.
5. Boil the Potatoes: While the garlic bakes, peel and quarter the medium-sized potatoes. Place them in a large pot of salted water and boil until they are very tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
6. Mash the Garlic: While the potatoes are cooking, carefully squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their peels into a small bowl. Use a fork to mash the garlic until it is smooth. Set it aside for later.
7. Drain the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well. Allow them to steam dry in the pot for a minute or two.
8. Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add the hot milk to the potatoes. Use a potato masher or fork to mash until the potatoes are mostly smooth.
9. Add Butter: Next, add the unsalted butter to the mashed potatoes. Keep mashing until everything is well combined and creamy.
10. Mix in the Garlic: Stir in half of the mashed roasted garlic. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preference. Keep mashing until everything is smooth.
11. Season With Salt: Taste the mashed potatoes and season with salt to your liking.
12. Add Fresh Herbs: Finally, add the chopped parsley and dill. Use a spatula to gently fold in the herbs.
13. Serve: Serve the Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes hot. If desired, top with extra butter for a richer taste.

HOW TO SERVE Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes serve wonderfully with a variety of dishes. They pair well with roasted meats, such as chicken or beef. Consider serving them alongside a hearty meatloaf or grilled fish. For vegetarian meals, they are excellent with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy them on their own with a drizzle of extra melted butter and a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to revive the creamy texture. You can heat them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.

For longer storage, consider freezing. Portion the mashed potatoes into freezer-safe containers. They will keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

1. With Gravy: Serve your Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes with a rich gravy for an added burst of flavor.
2. With Creamy Sauces: Try pairing them with a creamy mushroom sauce or a cheese sauce for extra indulgence.
3. As a Base: Use them as a base for casseroles or as a filling for shepherd’s pie.
4. With Roasted Vegetables: Enjoy them alongside a mix of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or any seasonal veggies.
5. As a Side Salad: Serve a light salad on the side to balance the richness of the mashed potatoes.

VARIATIONS

Feel free to play around with this recipe. Here are some variations to try:

1. Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add shredded cheddar cheese or parmesan to the mash for a cheesy twist.
2. Spicy Mashed Potatoes: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
3. Creamy Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes: Substitute some of the milk with sour cream for a tangy flavor.
4. Herb Variations: You can try different fresh herbs like chives, thyme, or tarragon depending on what you like.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of potatoes?

• Yes, you can use Yukon Gold, Russet, or red potatoes. Each type has its unique flavor and texture.

1. How can I make them vegan?

• You can substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use plant-based milk for a vegan version.

1. Why should I roast the garlic instead of using raw?

• Roasting garlic makes it sweeter and milder, giving the mashed potatoes a rich flavor without the sharpness of raw garlic.

1. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes a day ahead. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat them before serving.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes

If you want to save time, here are some make-ahead tips:

1. Roast Garlic in Advance: You can roast the garlic a day or two ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge until you are ready to use it.
2. Prep the Potatoes: You can peel and chop the potatoes earlier in the day. Store them in cold water to prevent browning until you are ready to cook them.
3. Combine Ingredients: Mix the mashed potatoes, garlic, and herbs and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them when you are ready to serve.
4. Use a Slow Cooker: If you want to keep them warm for a long time, you can place the mashed potatoes in a slow cooker with the setting on low.

By following these easy steps and tips, you’ll enjoy delicious Herb and Garlic Mashed Potatoes that everyone will love!

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