Kitchen Tips: Mashed Potatoes

I have had a real hankering for mashed potatoes lately, but I'm not sure why. Regardless, what better excuse to make a giant bowl of creamy goodness?

My secrets to delicious mashed potatoes?
1. Room temperature butter and cream (Yes, cream. Don't use skim or soy milk if you want the most divine spuds.)
2. A little garlic. You can roast it, but I prefer it at full power.
3. A potato ricer. My mother and Big Martha are/were able to achieve smooth potatoes with a stand mixer, but mine never come out quite right. But, a ricer does the trick and is a breeze to use.
4. Follow the rule francais: white food or white sauce requires white pepper.

Oh, mashed potatoes, how will I eat thee? Let me count the ways:
1. Hot and fresh with a BBQ riblet.
2. Formed into patties and fried in a skillet.
3. On top of chili like an American shepherd's pie.
4. Warmed in a skillet and topped with more butter.
5. Mashed potato soup?
6. Layered in a tortilla with scrambled egg and topped with salsa.

I could go on and on....but I have potatoes to eat!

Mangez!