Mashed Potatoes

Directions

1. 1
   Put the potatoes into a large pot, with the larger ones on the bottom, and add water to come halfway up the potatoes.
2. 2
   Cover the pot and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. 3
   When the water begins to boil, carefully drain off about half of it, reserving 2 tbsp of the water you pour off.
4. 4
   Return the pot to the heat, cover it again, reduce the heat to low, and let the potatoes steam for about 40 minutes.
5. 5
   Turn off the heat; cover the potatoes with a dean, damp tea towel; and let sit for 5 minutes more.
6. 6
   Meanwhile, put the cream, butter, and reserved cooking water into a small pot and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
7. 7
   Remove the potatoes from the pot with a slotted spoon and carefully peel them while they are still hot.
8. 8
   Return them to the pot and mash them well while slowly pouring in the cream mixture.
9. 9
   Season generously with salt and pepper and finish by whisking the potatoes vigorously.
10. 10
    Cheddar Mash: For cheddar mash, stir 1/2 cup/60 g of grated Irish white cheddar into the potatoes after adding the cream mixture.