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Mash with Attitude

Ready in 45 mins

Recipe by Graham 

Mash with Attitude is just what it says... a creamy potato mash with flecks of carrot, topped with crisp bacon that gives it a somewhat theatrical pose for a great effect when served to the table.

Try to use floury potatoes if possible. What’s the difference between Waxy and Floury Potatoes? Waxy potatoes (like Charlotte or Maris Peer) are translucent and feel moist and pasty. They are good at staying firm and keeping their shape so they make great salad potatoes. Floury potatoes (like Estima, King Edward, Maris Piper, Desiree) are brighter and more granular in appearance with a drier feel. They're better for dishes where you want fluffy potatoes or for mash.

Preparation Time

15 Minutes

Cooking Time

30 Minutes

Ingredients for Mash with Attitude

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Currently displaying quantities in US Imperial Measurements

To serve 4:

1½ lb potatoes
¾ lb carrots
8 rashers (slices) smoked streaky bacon (side bacon)
1 tablespoon sunflower oil
1 large onion
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
6 fl oz milk
2 tablespoons butter
1½ teaspoons salt

How to Cook Mash with Attitude

  1. Peel and quarter the potatoes. Peel and coarsely shred (grate) the carrots. Peel and dice the onion.
  2. In a large saucepan, cover the potatoes and carrots with 2" (5cm) of cold water and bring to a boil over a high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes).
  3. Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it is crisp, then drain it well on paper towels. Discard all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon drippings from skillet, add the oil and chopped onion and sauté gently for 10-12 minutes until the onion has softened and is very lightly browned. Stir in the thyme and cook for a further 2 minutes.
  4. When the potatoes are fork-tender, drain them and transfer them to a large bowl. Add the milk, butter, and salt and mash with a potato masher until the mixture is smooth (there should be small flecks of carrot visible). Stir in the onions then crumble the bacon over the top. Serve immediately.
GRAHAM'S HOT TIP:
Don't be afraid to add more milk or butter if necessary to get those potatoes to a lovely creamy consistency.