If you need a quick side dish, these mash potato flakes are the best choice this week. You won’t even need a lot of equipment or ingredients, so it is an easy and fast process.
Keep in mind too, that this is a great way to preserve potatoes in an affordable way. Also, you will have an instant side dish any time you need one.
Making Mash Potato Flakes Is The Easy Dish You Need Today
Here are the 6 best tips to make mash potatoes flakes at home
Tip #1: Pick the starchiest potatoes
The trick to making good mash potato flakes is picking the higher starch white potatoes like Russets or Yukon gold so that the results are soft and smooth.
These are the best potatoes for absorbing flavors, so these can be cooked and prepared easily with any dish.
However, you can also choose waxy potatoes, like red or whites, but keep in mind that these are much drier. If you do use them, make sure you use cream when you prepare them.
Tip #2: Boil the potatoes without any salt
Many people make the mistake of adding salt to potatoes; try not to add any as it can ruin the flavor and cooking for preservation.
Peel the potatoes first, then boil, but start by using cold water. Once the water gets to a boil, reduce to a simmer. This allows the potatoes to cook evenly.
Drain the potatoes, but reserve the water.
Tip #3: Use only the reserved water for mashing the potatoes
We recommend that you use the reserved water to slowly mash the potatoes until they are soft and thin.
If you forgot to save the water, don’t worry, use regular warm water. Whatever you do, don’t use fats and dairy, as they don’t dehydrate well. Using them will probably spoil the food.
You can use salt if you want. Though you should be aware this doesn’t alter the preservation method.
Tip #4: Make sure the potatoes are soft
Run the mashed potatoes through a blender or mixer until they are free of imperfections or lumps.
Tip #5: Bring out the dehydrator because it’s time to dehydrate!
Now you are ready to evenly and thinly spread out the layers of mashed potatoes onto lined baking sheets.
Dehydrate at a low temperature, which can be set on the thermostat of your dehydrator. If not, set a shorter time and check every few hours.
Usually, after this period, it’s recommended that you flip the potatoes for moisture. So use another baking or drying sheet and flip the dry layer upside down to allow the moist parts to dry.
Tip #6: Store accordingly and enjoy for up to a year
To finish, you can use a pulse option on a food processor or power blender to create flakes from the dried potatoes.
Store them into Ziploc bags or an airtight container. Keep away from light and moisture and check every once in a while. These mashed potato flakes should last you for a year.
How do I prepare my dried mash potato flakes?
Well, it’s up to preference, but two quick methods require very little on your part.
The Traditional Stovetop Method
To begin, heat water, butter, and salt in a saucepan. Allow it to get to a rolling boil, and then immediately remove from the heat.
Add milk and mashed potatoes flakes, stir with a fork until the potatoes reach the desired consistency.
If you want creamier mashed potatoes, add butter or milk to taste. Refrigerate any leftovers.
The Quick Microwave Method
It is important to know that all microwaves vary on heating times depending on the brand and model.
First, combine the water, salt, and butter in a microwaveable bowl. We also suggest you place the bowl on top of a regular plate, as the bowl can burn your skin if too hot.
Let the mix boil by using the high setting on the microwave.
Don’t overdo it, keep the mashed potatoes to 6 servings at most, otherwise they may not heat thoroughly, or can create a mess.
Once boiled, remove the bowl and let it sit to cool down, otherwise, you can burn your tongue and hands badly.
Add cold milk and stir in the mashed potatoes flakes slowly, let them stand until they get moist. Finally, whip the mix lightly, and serve.
You can always add more seasoning or milk if desired for texture and flavor.
Did you say mashed potatoes for dinner? Why not?
Now, you are ready to dehydrate your mashed potato flakes at home and using them whenever you want.
Who said mashed potatoes have to be boring? Add spices like paprika or cumin, for better flavor. Enjoy!
