Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

There's nothing quite like a serving of creamy garlic mashed potatoes to elevate a meal, bringing comfort and flavor to the table. This classic side dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner, festive gathering, or a simple weeknight meal. The rich, buttery texture combined with the aromatic essence of garlic makes it an irresistible choice for potato lovers.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (approximately 1 kg) of russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) of heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) of milk
• 1/2 cup (115 g) of unsalted butter
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Cooking Method

1. Boil the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes over medium-high heat until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

2. Prepare the Garlic Mixture: While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Heat the Cream and Milk: Add the heavy cream and milk to the garlic butter mixture. Warm gently, stirring occasionally.

4. 

   Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Use a potato masher or ricer to mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency.

5. Combine and Season: Gradually add the warm garlic cream mixture to the mashed potatoes, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Nutritional Value

Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are not only delicious but also provide essential nutrients. Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. When combined with garlic, which is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, this dish becomes both tasty and nutritious. However, due to the addition of butter and cream, it's relatively high in calories and saturated fats, so moderation is key.

Best Side Dishes and Pairings

Creamy garlic mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes and sides. Here are some pairing suggestions to create a balanced and appetizing meal:

• Main Dishes: Roast chicken, grilled steak, or braised beef short ribs are excellent choices.
• Side Dishes and Salads: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, roasted Brussels sprouts, or honey-glazed carrots complement this dish well.
• Drinks: Consider serving with a glass of Chardonnay or a light red wine like Pinot Noir. For non-alcoholic options, iced tea or a sparkling water with lemon works beautifully.

Incorporate creamy garlic mashed potatoes into your next meal, and enjoy the comforting flavors it brings to your table.