Ingredients: |
Ingredients: Table salt 1 bay leaf 4 tbl. unsalted butter, melted and warm 1/2 cup cream cheese (4 oz.), room temperature 3 tbl. chopped fresh chives (optional) 2 pounds Red Bliss potatoes (about 2-inches in diameter), unpeeled and scrubbed Ground pepper
|
Directions: |
Directions:1. Place potatoes in large saucepan and cover with 1-inch cold water; add 1 tsp. salt and bay leaf. Bring to boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium low and simmer gently until paring knife can be inserted into potatoes with no resistance, 35 to 45 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water, then drain potatoes. Return potatoes to pot, discard bay leaf, and allow potatoes to stand in pot, uncovered, until surfaces are dry, about 5 minutes. 2. While potatoes dry, whisk melted butter and softened cream cheese in medium bowl until smooth and fully incorporated. Add 1/4 cup of reserved cooking water, 1/2 tsp. pepper, chives (if using), and 1/2 tsp. salt. Using rubber spatula or back of wooden spoon, smash potatoes just enough to break skins. Fold in butter/cream cheese mixture until most of liquid has been absorbed and chunks of potatoes remain. Add more cooking water 1 tbl. at a time as needed, until potatoes are slightly looser than desired (potatoes will thicken slightly with standing). Adhust seasonings with salt and peper; serve immediately. |