Food - Drink
The Simple Additions Ina Garten Uses To Elevate Store-Bought Mashed Potatoes
By EMILY BOYETTE
Homemade mashed potatoes are traditional for Thanksgiving, but cooks who are starved for time or money may be looking for shortcuts. Store-bought mashed potatoes don't have to be flavorless just because they're more affordable, especially if you add these ingredients recommended by celeb chef Ina Garten.
While most pre-prepared mashed potatoes can be heated in the microwave, Garten uses a double-boiler to gently and consistently heat the potatoes, so that additional ingredients melt right into the mash. She adds the potatoes to a bowl over simmering water, then mixes in sour cream, Parmesan cheese, butter, salt, and pepper.
Normally, you would need knives, a cutting board, a vegetable peeler, a strainer, a potato masher, and possibly more equipment to make homemade mashed potatoes. Garten's method only requires a glass or metal bowl, a saucepan of hot water, and a wooden spoon to create a flavorful, cheese, creamy mash in practically no time.