Coconut Milk Mashed Potatoes – A Story

Once upon a time, in a cozy kitchen filled with love and warmth, a humble dish of mashed potatoes was brought to life, inspired by the culinary wisdom of Nigel Slater.

Our hero, a 2 lb (900 g) sack of floury potatoes, embarked on a transformative journey. They shed their earthy skins and were cut into uniform pieces, revealing their tender white hearts. As they bathed in a cold stream of water, they cleansed themselves of any lingering starch.

Gently, they were submerged in a large pan filled with cold, salted water – a crystal-clear lagoon. The flame beneath flickered to life, embracing the pan in a warm, comforting hug. As the water began to boil, the potatoes started their metamorphosis, cooking for 20-25 minutes until they became tender and yielding to the touch of a fork.

While the potatoes bubbled away, a small saucepan cradled 1 cup (250 ml) of coconut milk, warming it over a low flame. Like a trusted companion, the milk waited patiently for its moment to shine. When the potatoes had completed their transformation, they were lifted from their watery cocoon and allowed to rest, letting their steam drift away like a whisper. The warm, dry potatoes were then returned to their pan, ready for the next step in their journey.

With the help of a traditional potato masher or ricer, the potatoes were gently mashed and molded into a velvety, cloud-like consistency. As the lumps disappeared, the true essence of the potatoes emerged – soft, smooth, and sublime. A generous 4 oz (115 g) of salted butter joined the potatoes, melting and melding with them like a long-lost friend. The trio swirled together, creating a luxurious, creamy union that delighted the senses. Together, they danced in the pan, joined by the warmed milk waiting so patiently.

The time had come to season this magical dish. Like fairy dust, a generous pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper was sprinkled over the potatoes. A bit of freshly grated nutmeg was added for those who sought a whisper of enchantment. A handful of vibrant, newly chopped chives completed the spell, bringing a burst of color and life to the dish.

Served crazy hot, with a final drizzle of chives to garnish, the potatoes brought contentment and comfort to all who tasted them. The end, or rather, the beginning of a new mealtime story.