Rama & Sunil's Favorite Recipe

by Katricia Navarrete

The Thanksgiving season focuses not only on giving thanks but on gathering together and sharing a meal with your family and friends. I asked each agent to share one of their favorites recipes. They could be every day recipes or a recipe for a special occasion. We will start off this blog recipe series with Rama & Sunil's favorite recipe.

When asked what her favorite recipe was, Rama said that she really likes mashed potatoes. Rama also shared that her potatoes must have lots of cheese and butter in them. I must admit, it's one of my favorite things to eat too, not only during the holidays but as part of a regular weekday meal. Here's Rama & Sunil's recipe:

Rama's Mashed Potatoes with Cheese

Ingredients:

2 lbs Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes - peel the potatoes and rinse with water. Cut them into 4, 6 or 8 pieces depending upon the size of the potato, keeping all similar sized
½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, softened
¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheese like Parmesan, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack)
½ cup whole milk or heavy cream, warmed
Salt & Pepper
Optional: 2 oz cream cheese
Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder
Optional: 1 tbsp fresh chives or parsley

Instructions:

Boil the potatoes: Place the cut potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add a generous amount of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat slightly and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15–25 minutes.
Drain and dry: Drain the potatoes thoroughly. Return the empty pot to low heat for a minute, stirring the potatoes to help any excess water evaporate.
Mash the potatoes: Transfer the hot potatoes to a large bowl mixing bowl. Mash them using a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer until smooth and lump-free.
Add butter and cream: Stir in the butter and the warm milk or cream, mixing until the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
Mix in the cheese and season: Stir in the cheese(s) until just melted and well combined, then stir in optional garlic powder and salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Garnish with fresh chives or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Optional baking step: For a golden, bubbly top, spread the finished mashed potatoes into a greased baking dish, sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or broil for 1–2 minutes until lightly browned.