Mashed Potatoes with Garlic

Serves 8

There are so many ways to add flavor to mashed potatoes when you want a quick and easy side dish that is a little different. This recipe, which adds the mellow flavor of cooked garlic, is one example. The recipe can be made in any amount needed.

Ingredients

• 4 pounds white potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 6 tablespoons room temperature butter, preferably unsalted, divided
• 4 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 cup milk, more or less, as needed
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook potatoes in lightly salted boiling water until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain; return to pot and cover to keep warm.

Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the garlic to the potatoes. Add remaining butter and mash until smooth. Add milk gradually, whipping well until the desired consistency. Taste for seasoning; add salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately or keep warm in a double boiler over simmering water, stirring well and adding milk if needed before serving.

Notes: You can use any kind of boiling or waxy potatoes for mashing. My favorite is the Yukon gold, a great all-purpose potato that is equally good in recipes that call for boiling, baking or roasting.