BUTTERMILK MASHED POTATOES

Steps:

• In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water and 2 tablespoons salt to a boil.
• Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-1/2" cubes.
• Add them to the boiling water and bring the water back to a boil.
• Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes fall apart easily when pierced with a fork.
• Meanwhile, heat the whole milk (ONLY - don't be tempted to heat the buttermilk with the whole milk and cream; it will curdle) and butter in a small saucepan, making sure it doesn't boil.
• Set aside until the potatoes are done.
• As soon as the potatoes are tender, drain them in a colander.
• Place a food mill fitted with a small disk or blade over a heat-proof bowl.
• Pass the potatoes through the food mill, turning the handle back and forth.
• As soon as the potatoes are mashed, stir in the hot-milk-and-butter mixture with a rubber spatula.
• Add enough buttermilk to make the potatoes creamy.
• Add 2 teaspoons of salt and the pepper, or more to taste, and serve hot.
• To keep the potatoes warm, place the bowl over a pan of simmering water for up to 30 minutes.
• You can add a little extra hot milk to keep them creamy.
• Enjoy!
• The Barefoot Contessa served this with roast capon, green beans with shalotts, orange-honey glazed carrots and pumpkin mousse parfait.