The main difference between mash and smash is that the verb “mash” is used to describe a smoother consistency, while the verb “smash” is used to describe a more forceful action.
Mashing is normally associated with bringing ingredients together by pureeing, crushing, grinding, or blending them, resulting in a smooth or almost creamy texture. Smash, on the other hand, is associated with breaking something apart forcefully, like smashing a banana or smashing a rock.
It also implies a big impact, creating many small pieces or bits, usually with a loud noise.
For example, if you wanted to make mashed potatoes, you would use a masher or blender to scoop the cooked potatoes into a bowl and mash them until they are creamy and smooth. If you wanted to smash a rock, you would need a hammer and chisel to break the rock apart.
What is the meaning of smashed potatoes?
Smashed potatoes typically refers to a type of potato dish in which potatoes are boiled until they are soft, and then they are squashed or flattened into large, flat discs. It is a type of mashed potatoes, but the potatoes are not pureed or blended into a smooth mashed texture – they are left in larger chunks, creating a combination of mashed and roasted potato in one dish.
Smashed potatoes are usually seasoned with salt, pepper and herbs, and then sautéed or baked until golden brown. As with mashed potatoes, smashed potatoes can be topped with cheese, bacon, chives or sour cream for additional flavor and texture.
How do you eat smashed potatoes?
Smashed potatoes are a delicious and easy side dish for any meal! To prepare them, start by boiling potatoes until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Next, drain the boiled potatoes and mash them with a potato masher or a fork until they reach desired consistency.
Season the potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add something extra like bacon, chives or garlic for extra flavor if desired.
Once the potatoes are mashed to your desired consistency, you can serve them warm or cold. For a crispy finished product, form the potatoes into a slightly flattened ball and fry in a skillet with oil until golden and crispy.
Alternatively, you can spread the mashed potatoes onto a baking sheet and bake until golden and crispy.
No matter how you choose to serve them, smashed potatoes are a hearty and delicious side dish that will be sure to please any crowd! Enjoy!
Is there a difference between mashed potatoes and whipped potatoes?
Yes, there is a difference between mashed potatoes and whipped potatoes. Mashed potatoes are made by mashing boiled potatoes with a potato masher or ricer and then they are typically seasoned with salt, pepper, butter, and some herbs or other seasonings.
Mashed potatoes are usually smooth and creamy.
Whipped potatoes are also made with boiled potatoes, but they are whipped with a mixer or an electric hand blender. They are aerated, making them lighter, fluffier, and more airy than mashed potatoes.
It is also common to add whole butter, cream cheese, sour cream, or cream to whipped potatoes. Whipped potatoes are usually thicker than mashed potatoes and are sometimes even referred to as Japanese mashed potatoes.
How long does it take for potatoes to soften in Instant Pot?
It usually takes about 10 minutes for potatoes to soften in an Instant Pot. It’s important to note that the time vary depending on the size of the potatoes and if you are using them for mashed potatoes or baked potatoes.
If you are using them for mashed potatoes, you should cut the potatoes into smaller pieces so that they cook faster. Additionally, how long the potatoes take to soften also depends on how much pressure you are applying.
The general rule of thumb is to cook the potatoes on high pressure for 6 minutes and then release the pressure quickly. You should also add some liquid like broth or water so the potatoes cook evenly.
You can also wait an extra few minutes before releasing the pressure to give the potatoes extra time to finish cooking.
How do you boil in Instant Pot?
Boiling water in an Instant Pot is incredibly simple, and can be done in just a few steps.
First, make sure that the steam valve is in the sealed position. Then, add the desired amount of water to the stainless steel inner pot and insert the pot into the Instant Pot.
Next, lock the lid in place, making sure the lid is properly lined up with the arrows above the handle. Then, turn the steam release valve to the sealed position and press the Manual/Pressure Cook button.
Use the + and – keys to adjust the cooking time to 0 minutes. The Instant Pot will beep twice to indicate that the pressure cooking cycle has started, and the timer will begin counting up. Once the pot has reached pressure and the timer has counted up to 0, the Instant Pot will beep again, indicating that the cooking cycle is complete and the water has been brought to a boil.
Finally, once the cooking cycle has finished, turn the steam release valve to the “venting” position to release the pressure. Once the pin in the steam release valve drops, the lid can be opened and the boiling water can be used.
How many minutes does it take to boil potatoes?
It generally takes between 15 and 20 minutes to boil potatoes. This can vary depending on the type and size of the potatoes, as well as how much water is used. Small, waxy potatoes such as fingerlings or new potatoes may take as little as 10-12 minutes, while larger starchy potatoes, like Russets, may take up to 25 minutes.
For perfectly boiled potatoes, poke with a fork before cooking to make sure they are properly cooked throughout. If they are not tender all the way through, boil for a few more minutes until a fork can easily pierce the potato.
What happens if you boil potatoes too long?
If potatoes are boiled too long, they can become mushy, dry and quite unpleasant to eat. The starches in the potatoes have reacted to the boiling water and given off too much moisture, making the potatoes overcooked and too soft.
Additionally, they may also start to disintegrate, making them hard to pick apart and work with in recipes such as potato salads and potato dishes. The flavor may also be affected, as the boiling process releases many of the potatoes’ sugars and natural flavors, making them taste bland and overcooked.
To prevent this from happening, one should keep track of the time potatoes are boiled and make sure to remove them from the heat promptly once they are done. The best way to test for doneness is by pricking a fork or knife into the potatoes and seeing if it easily slices through the flesh.
How do you boil potatoes quickly?
Boiling potatoes quickly can be done by starting with cold water, bringing the water to a rapid boil and then simmering until the potatoes are tender. First, fill a pot with cold water and add the potatoes to it.
Put the pot on the stove and turn the heat to high. Let the water come to a rapid boil – this should take about 10 minutes. Once boiling, turn the heat down to medium-low and gently simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
Once boiled, the potatoes will be ready to use in your favorite potato dish!.
Why do my potatoes fall apart when boiled?
There can be a few different reasons why your potatoes may fall apart when boiled. One of the most common causes is that the potatoes you are using may be old or slightly over-ripe, as potatoes will naturally become moister and softer, making them more likely to break apart when boiled.
Another reason could be because you did not cook your potatoes for long enough. Potatoes take a minimum of 10-15 minutes to cook through, depending on their size. If the potatoes are not left in the boiling water for long enough, they can remain hard in the centre which can cause them to break apart when disturbed.
Finally, it is also possible that you are boiling your potatoes in too much water. The more water is used to boil the potatoes, the more likely they are to break. For best results, always use a minimal amount of water to cover the potatoes, as increased boiling time can break them down.
How do you boil potatoes without them falling apart?
To boil potatoes without them falling apart, it is important to start with small to medium-sized potatoes. Choose potatoes that are similar in size, since depending on the potato, it could take longer or shorter to cook.
Then, take a large pot and fill it with cold water and a pinch or two of salt. Put the lid on the pot and bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the potatoes, lower the heat and set a timer for 15 minutes.
When the timer goes off, test the potatoes with a fork; they should be soft but still firm. If they are tender, they are done. Drain the potatoes and serve!.
Do you peel potatoes before boiling?
Whether you should peel potatoes before boiling them depends on what you plan to do with them after they are boiled. For some recipes, such as mashed potatoes, it is best to peel the potatoes before boiling them, as it makes them easier to mash smoothly.
If you are making potato salad or boiling potatoes to make potato skins, you should leave the peels on. Boiling the potatoes with the peel will give them extra flavor and nutrition. Before boiling the potatoes with their peels on, make sure to wash them well and scrub off any dirt or debris.
No matter if you peel your potatoes or not before boiling them, be sure to use a sharp knife when cutting them and keep your fingers away from the blade.
Can you boil carrots and potatoes together?
Yes, you can boil carrots and potatoes together. Both carrots and potatoes are root vegetables, so they take about the same amount of time to cook. To boil the vegetables together, start by peeling and chopping the carrots and potatoes into similar sized pieces.
Then, add them to a pot of boiling salted water, and let them cook for around 15 minutes. Once they are both cooked through and tender, drain the pot and your carrots and potatoes are ready to be served.
Is it better to boil potatoes before roasting?
It depends! Boiling potatoes before roasting can help to cut down on cooking time, as the potatoes will partially cook in the boiling water. Boiled potatoes can also be fluffier, particularly if they are not peeled, since the skin helps to hold the potatoes together.
However, boiling can also lead to potatoes that are too soft and water-logged.
If you choose to boil before roasting, be sure to watch the potatoes closely, as overcooking them can lead to mushy potatoes. If you choose to not boil potatoes before roasting, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly, but you will likely end up with potatoes that have a crispier texture and richer flavor.
Ultimately, you have to decide which outcome you prefer, and adjust your cooking times accordingly.
How much water do I need for 1 cup of instant mashed potatoes?
When making 1 cup of instant mashed potatoes, you will need to measure 1/2 cup of cold or hot water, plus 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine. You can also adjust the amount of water to your taste preference.
If you would like a thicker consistency, you can start with less liquid. Adding additional liquid will give you a softer, lighter mashed potato. If you are using a microwave, use the same amounts of water and butter, plus an additional tablespoon of water.
Stir the potatoes, replace the lid, and microwave on high for 2 minutes. Then remove the lid and stir again before serving.
Can you use milk instead of water for Idahoan mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can use milk instead of water for Idahoan mashed potatoes. Milk adds a creamy and full flavor. When using milk, be sure to use full-fat milk and heat the milk until it’s just a slight simmer before adding it to the potatoes.
You can also add a tablespoon of butter and a pinch of salt to the milk to give the potatoes an even richer flavor. The milk to water ratio will depend on the type of mashed potatoes you are making. For traditional mashed potatoes made with regular Idahoan potatoes, use 1 cup of milk to every 2-3 cups of water.
For flavored Idahoan mashed potatoes like Garlic or Cheddar and Bacon, a ratio of 2/3 cup milk to 1 cup water is recommended for a richer flavor.