POTATOES FOR MASHED RECIPES

Steps:

• In a large pot, cover potatoes with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until totally soft, 16 to 18 minutes. Drain and return potatoes to pot. Use a potato masher to mash potatoes until smooth. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt butter with milk until warm. Pour over warm milk-butter mixture and stir until completely combined and creamy. Add sour cream and stir until combined. Season mashed potatoes generously with salt and pepper. Transfer potatoes to a serving bowl and top with remaining two tablespoons butter. Season with more pepper before serving.

Steps:

• Cover potatoes, garlic, and 1 Tbsp. salt with cold water in a large pot. Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat and simmer (do not boil) until potatoes are very tender when pierced with the tip of a paring knife but not falling apart, 20–25 minutes.
• Meanwhile, heat milk, thyme, and ¾ cup butter in a small pot over medium, stirring, until butter is melted. Remove from heat; set aside.
• Drain potatoes and garlic; return to pot. Toss over low heat until moisture evaporates, 1–2 minutes. Using potato ricer or food mill, immediately press potatoes and garlic into a large bowl (do not let cool).
• Discard thyme from milk mixture and gradually stir into potatoes, reserving about ½ cup if you plan to make in advance (see Do Ahead). Season with 2 tsp. salt and ¾ tsp. pepper. Fold in sour cream and stir with a spoon until incorporated and very smooth (do not overmix or potatoes will become gummy). Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve topped with remaining 2 Tbsp. butter and more pepper.
• Mashed potatoes can be made 2 hours ahead; cover and store at room temperature. Or chill, covered, up to 8 hours; reheat over medium with reserved ½ cup milk mixture.