Feb. 5, 2009 - Mashed Potatoes-dairy free
I find it quickest to cook the potatoes, dump out half the salted water they were cooking in, toss in a bunch of margerine and salt/pepper, and mash away. They are good. No, not as good as those made with heavy cream, some cream cheese and sour cream, but still, tasty. Adding some broth is a nice touch in lieu of the water, and garlic of course jazzes it up.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds potatoes, peeled (cut them in half if they're large)
- 1/4 c non-dairy margarine, such as Earth Balance
- 1 c chicken broth or stock (add more if necessary)
- salt and pepper
- several sprigs fresh parsley or chives, minced (optional garnish)
Preparation:
- Boil potatoes in a large pot for 20 to 30 minutes, or until potatoes are fully cooked (when a fork or skewer inserted in a potato slides out immediately). Drain potatoes.
- Put margarine in a mixing bowl large enough to hold potatoes. Add potatoes and chicken broth.
- Mash potatoes with a ricer, mixer, or food mill until as smooth as desired, adding more chicken broth if necessary to achieve correct consistency.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper. Top with parsley or chives (optional). Serve immediately.
Serves 8 to 10 as a side dish with a large meal (such as Thanksgiving or Christmas), or 6 to 8 as a side dish with a smaller meal.
Choosing Potatoes for Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes require potatoes with a moderate-to-high amount of starch in order for them to break up easily when mashed. Yukon Gold potatoes make wonderful mashed potatoes; if they are unavailable, look for Russet potatoes or plain brown "Idaho potatoes." Avoid red potatoes or new potatoes, however, as they tend to be waxier when mashed.

