How to Create Savory Garlic and Chive Mashed Potatoes
One of the best side dishes to pair with almost any meal is mashed potatoes. They’re comforting, creamy, and delicious. But why stick to plain mashed potatoes when you can make a savory version? Garlic and chive mashed potatoes take this classic dish to the next level with extra flavor and freshness. The recipe is simple, and you don’t need fancy cooking skills. Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have perfect savory mashed potatoes every time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the ingredients. They are basic and easy to find:
- Potatoes: About 2 pounds of Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well. Both varieties are starchy, making them smooth and creamy when mashed.
- Garlic: Use 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic for that rich, savory flavor. If you love garlic, you can always add a little more!
- Butter: 4 tablespoons of butter give the potatoes a silky texture. Choose unsalted butter so you can control the salt level.
- Milk or Cream: About ½ cup of warm milk or heavy cream adds richness. Whole milk works best, but you can use lower-fat options if you prefer.
- Chives: Finely chopped chives (about 2 tablespoons) bring a fresh, slightly onion-like flavor to balance the richness.
- Salt and Pepper: Add these to taste to give the dish just the right seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now it’s time to get cooking! The steps are pretty simple, so even beginner cooks can make this dish with ease.
1. Wash and Peel Your Potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes under running water to remove any dirt or debris. If you prefer smoother mashed potatoes, peel off the skins using a vegetable peeler. If you like a bit of texture, you can leave the skins on—it’s entirely up to you.
2. Cut the Potatoes into Chunks
Chop the potatoes into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 2 inches wide. Smaller chunks cook faster and more evenly.
3. Boil the Potatoes
Place the potato chunks into a large pot and add enough water to cover them completely. Sprinkle in about a teaspoon of salt to season the water. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for 15-20 minutes. Check if they’re done by poking a chunk with a fork—it should slide right through without resistance.
4. Prepare the Garlic
While the potatoes are boiling, peel and finely chop the garlic cloves. You can also use a garlic press to make this step faster. Heat a pan over low heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Toss in the chopped garlic and cook it gently for about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn—you just want it soft and fragrant.
5. Mash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly in a colander and return them to the pot. While the potatoes are still hot, begin mashing them with a potato masher or a fork. For ultra-smooth mashed potatoes, you can use a hand mixer or a potato ricer.
6. Add Butter, Milk, and Garlic
Melt the rest of your butter and warm the milk (or cream). Add both to the mashed potatoes along with the cooked garlic. Mix everything together until creamy. If your potatoes are too thick, you can add a splash more milk to loosen them up.
7. Season to Taste
Sprinkle salt and pepper into the mashed potatoes, tasting as you go to make sure the flavor is just right. This step is crucial to creating the perfect savory balance.
8. Stir in Chives
Finally, mix in the chopped chives. They don’t need to be cooked—they’re best fresh for that lovely green color and subtle flavor. Save a few chives for garnish if you’d like.
Serving Tips
Now that your garlic and chive mashed potatoes are ready, it’s time to serve! Here are a few ideas to make your dish shine:
- Scoop the mashed potatoes into a serving bowl and sprinkle the reserved chives on top for a pop of color.
- Pair the mashed potatoes with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or meatloaf for a hearty meal.
- Serve them alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a balanced dinner.
Tips for Success
Here are some extra tips to make sure your mashed potatoes turn out perfect every time:
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make mashed potatoes gummy instead of creamy. Mix just until everything is combined.
- Start with Cold Water: When boiling potatoes, always start with cold water. Adding them directly to hot water can cause uneven cooking.
- Use Warm Milk: Cold milk can cool down the potatoes and make them less fluffy, so warm your milk before adding it.
Final Thoughts
Savory garlic and chive mashed potatoes are a simple yet delicious upgrade to traditional mashed potatoes. They’re rich, flavorful, and easy to make, turning any meal into a restaurant-quality experience. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and let the flavors of garlic and fresh chives win you over—you may never go back to plain mashed potatoes again!
So grab some potatoes, garlic, and chives, and start cooking today. Your taste buds will thank you!
