Mashed Potatoes: Love it or Hate it?

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Discussion Overview

The thread centers around participants sharing their experiences and opinions regarding a specific kitchen tool used for mashing potatoes and other food items. Various uses and personal anecdotes are discussed, alongside some concerns about the product's functionality.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, mentions they have had customers inquire about the product but could not provide feedback due to not owning it.
  • Several participants express strong positive feelings towards the product, highlighting its effectiveness for mashing potatoes, guacamole, and other food items.
  • One participant shares a concern about water getting trapped around the handle after washing, leading to issues during use.
  • Another participant notes that they use the product daily without encountering any problems, suggesting that the previous participant's experience may be an isolated issue.
  • Multiple users mention the versatility of the product, stating it is useful for various tasks beyond mashing potatoes, such as mixing batters and preparing other dishes.
  • One participant appreciates that the product allows for lumpy mashed potatoes, which is a preference for their family.
  • Another participant shares a tip they received from a customer about using the product for mashing cauliflower with parmesan.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

While many participants express a love for the product and its versatility, there are differing experiences regarding its functionality, particularly concerning the handle issue. No clear consensus emerges on the product's reliability.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and preferences related to the product, reflecting a range of uses in cooking and food preparation.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants and community members interested in personal experiences with kitchen tools, particularly those related to mashing and mixing food items.

LisaAnn
Silver Member
Messages
139
Do you love? Hate it? I've had a few customers ask about it, but I don't have one so I couldn't give them an honest answer. Any other useful ideas for it other than the obvious mashed potatoes?
 
LOVE IT!!!!

Mash eggs for egg salad, avocado for guacamole, beans for refried beans....
 
I LOVE how it works, I've also used it for mixing my homemade hot cocoa batches, which are big at Christmas time.

BUT, I've found a problem, water gets in around the handle and I had washed and dried it (or thought it was dry) and took it out of my TTA and started mixing my cocoa and noticed drops of water turning to clumps, and figured out what was happening, so that doesn't thrill me.

My handle end/grip comes right off now, so when I'm using it, I take it off, or seperate when washing and make SURE it's dry before using.

I've still got to call/email HO about that, guess I'll go do that now.

I frankly am disappointed in this doing this and am hoping all these new spring products don't do this.

Lisa
 
I made guacamole the other day and it was great
 
Love It! Great for mashing potatoes and leaving the 'lumps' in! Plus, you can use it to serve the potatoes too!
 
I've sold tons of these when telling people it works great for browning hamburger and getting it nice and crumbly!!
 
LOVE IT! I've used it for all the ways that have been mentioned plus I love it for mixing up batters that might be too thick for our SS Whisk. I was skeptical when it came out but it is now one of my new best friends.
 
I love it!! It is a lot more sturdy and useful than it appears!
 
I love mine...dh is happy that he get's his lumpy mashed potatoes again.
 
I just made a batch of banana muffins, and a batch of Pumpkin bread using it! It is THE BOMB for mashing the bananas, and perfect for mixing muffin & quick bread batters that you don't want to be over-stirred! It incorporated the dry with the wet ingredients perfectly!
I used it at my show Sat. to mix together and stir the Smashed Potato Soup I was making.....the Mix n Masher was my surprise favorite product from last season! (Thought it was silly when it was introduced at Nationals, but have since come to LOVE it!)
 
.....also great for sweet potatoes and squash! And I think someone mentioned Hot Cocoa mix.....I use mine EVERY day! I have to wash it by hand usually, because I don't have time for it to go into the dishwasher! Sounds like I need two, huh?:D
 
Lisa/ChefBear said:
I LOVE how it works, I've also used it for mixing my homemade hot cocoa batches, which are big at Christmas time.

BUT, I've found a problem, water gets in around the handle and I had washed and dried it (or thought it was dry) and took it out of my TTA and started mixing my cocoa and noticed drops of water turning to clumps, and figured out what was happening, so that doesn't thrill me.

My handle end/grip comes right off now, so when I'm using it, I take it off, or seperate when washing and make SURE it's dry before using.

I've still got to call/email HO about that, guess I'll go do that now.

I frankly am disappointed in this doing this and am hoping all these new spring products don't do this.

Lisa

Lisa,
Like I just posted, I use mine every day, and haven't had a problem with it! I think yours must be defective somehow - I'd get a replacement for it!
 
I love the versatility of this product also, especially for mashed potatos as my family likes them a little lumpy.

Also, this is Doris' favorite product from the F/W season. She laughed when it was introduced by the test kitchens and thought it would not work, and it became her favorite piece (learned this from the test kitchen employees on the HO tours as last year's conference).
 
My handle came off too. I thought it was suppose to. I better call HO
Thanks
 
Love it for mashing cauliflower!! Got that tip from a customer - she mashes cauliflower with a bit of parmesan -- yummmmm
 
I used it to mix the ingredients together for meatloaf. It was great! My mom always said to use my hands, but that's just too gross for me!

Diane
 
Love mine. Use it all the time. My family likes mashed potatoes with the skin left on. This is the first masher I've ever had that I didn't spend more time picking potato peel out of it than mashing my taters.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best potatoes to use for mashed potatoes?

The best potatoes for mashed potatoes are typically starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. These potatoes yield a creamy texture and absorb butter and cream well, making them ideal for a rich and flavorful mash.

How can I make my mashed potatoes creamier?

To make your mashed potatoes creamier, consider adding warm milk or cream gradually while mashing. Using a potato ricer or food mill can also help achieve a smooth consistency. Additionally, incorporating softened butter and sour cream can enhance the creaminess.

What seasonings can I add to enhance the flavor of mashed potatoes?

You can enhance the flavor of mashed potatoes by adding salt, pepper, garlic powder, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley. For a twist, try incorporating roasted garlic, cheese, or even a splash of sour cream for added depth.

Can I make mashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make mashed potatoes ahead of time. To do so, prepare them as usual, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk or cream to restore the desired consistency.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making mashed potatoes?

Common mistakes include over-mashing the potatoes, which can lead to a gummy texture, and not using enough salt, which can result in bland flavor. Additionally, using cold milk or butter can cool down the potatoes and affect their creaminess, so always use warm ingredients.

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