Delicious Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a comforting and versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. This recipe enhances the classic mashed potato with the addition of caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and aromatic thyme. The creamy texture achieved with milk and butter makes it sumptuous and delightful. The nutmeg adds a hint of warmth, making this recipe particularly comforting during colder months. Perfect as a side dish, these flavorful mashed potatoes also stand well on their own. The preparation process is straightforward, with simple steps that even a beginner can follow. With just a few ingredients, you can elevate this everyday dish to a gourmet level. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Dive into the rich textures and savory flavors of these mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 kg fluffy potatoes
• 1 large onion
• 150 g streaky bacon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic
• 250 ml milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt

Spices:

• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• Pepper
• Grated nutmeg

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes (Preparation: 10 minutes, Cooking: 30 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into halves or quarters, depending on size.
2. Place the potatoes in a pot, add salt, and cover with water. Boil them for about 25-30 minutes until they become soft.
3. While the potatoes are cooking, peel the onion and chop it into small cubes. Cut the bacon into strips or cubes as well.
4. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the bacon with the onions until they are golden brown and the bacon is crispy.
5. Peel the garlic cloves, crush them, and add to the pan with the sautéing onions and bacon.
6. Stir in the dried thyme for a burst of flavor.
7. In a separate pot, heat the milk until it's warm but not boiling.
8. Once the potatoes are done, drain them thoroughly and mash them immediately using a potato masher or a potato ricer.
9. Slowly mix in the warm milk and butter, whisking the mixture until it achieves a creamy consistency.
10. Season the mashed potatoes with salt, pepper, and a dash of grated nutmeg to taste.
11. Fold in the caramelized onions and bacon into the mashed potatoes for an added depth of flavor.
12. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with some additional thyme if desired.
13. Serve the mashed potatoes hot as a side to your favorite main dishes.

Tips

• Substitution: Use heavy cream instead of milk for an extra creamy texture.
• Bacon Alternative: For a healthier option, substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version.
• Consistency: Adjust the milk quantity to achieve desired creaminess.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbs: 25g

Variations

• Try incorporating roasted garlic instead of fresh for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
• For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika.
• Use sweet potatoes for a sweeter variation of this dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted meats such as chicken or beef.
• Serve alongside green vegetables like steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a touch of freshness.

Best Places

1. The Potato Place - A cozy spot known for its creamy mashed potatoes. Location: 123 Potato Lane, Dublin, Ireland.
2. Bistro Bliss - Delight in gourmet mashed potatoes with unique toppings. Location: 45 Gourmet Street, Paris, France.
3. Comfort Crunch - Famous for their rich and buttery mashed delights. Location: 78 Comfort Way, New York City, USA.
4. Mash Masters - Offers a variety of mash-infused meals. Location: 56 Tasty Avenue, Sydney, Australia.
5. Epicurean Eats - Renowned for their classic and luxury mashed potato options. Location: 91 Delish Drive, London, UK.
6. Fluffy Fare - A popular stop for fluffy potatoes and more. Location: 32 Culinary Corner, Rome, Italy.
7. Savory Spoon - Discover delightful pairings with their signature mashed sides. Location: 19 Flavor Street, Toronto, Canada.
8. Golden Mash - Known for infusing continental flavors into traditional mashed potato dishes. Location: 101 Carbo Street, Berlin, Germany.
9. Creamy Creations - Specializes in creamy, delectable mashed offerings. Location: 202 Masher Lane, Tokyo, Japan.
10. Tasteful Taters - Enjoy a variety of creative mashed potato renditions. Location: 88 Savory Road, Cape Town, South Africa.