If you're a fan of mashed potatoes, then you'll love the unique and flavorful twist that smoked potato puree brings to the table. This smooth and creamy side dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion. In this article, we'll explore what smoked potato puree is, how it differs from traditional mashed potatoes, and how to make it yourself.
What is Smoked Potato Puree?
Smoked potato puree, also known as pomme puree, is a variation of mashed potatoes that offers a more refined and sophisticated flavor profile. The term pomme puree is French for mashed potato, but the two are not exactly the same. While traditional mashed potatoes are made by boiling and mashing potatoes with milk, butter, salt, and pepper, smoked potato puree takes it a step further.
Smoked potato puree is typically made with potatoes, cream, butter, salt, and pepper. After boiling the potatoes, they are pureed in a food processor to achieve a smooth and fluffy consistency. This extra step of pureeing the potatoes results in a luxurious texture that is unmatched by traditional mashed potatoes. The addition of cream and the smoky flavor adds depth and richness to the dish, making it a standout side.
How to Make Smoked Potato Puree
Making smoked potato puree is relatively simple, but it does require a few extra steps compared to traditional mashed potatoes. Here is a recipe inspired by the renowned French chef Joel Robuchon, known for his exceptional pomme puree:
- Start with around 1kg of potatoes, preferably Ratte or Yukon potatoes.
- Scrub the potatoes clean and simmer them with the skins still on until they are tender.
- While the potatoes are cooling, heat 1/2 - 3/4 cups of milk in a saucepan until it boils. Set it aside to cool.
- Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel them and cut them into small pieces.
- Pass the potatoes through a food mill or potato ricer and into a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
- Heat the potatoes over low heat for around 5 minutes to dry them out slightly.
- Slowly add 500g of diced butter to the potatoes, incorporating small amounts at a time.
- Once the butter is mixed in, slowly add the milk until the desired consistency is reached.
- Stir the puree vigorously with a whisk to incorporate air and create a fluffy texture.
- Pass the puree through a fine drum sieve to achieve a silky smooth texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
It's important to note that the amount of milk needed may vary, so add it gradually until you reach the desired thickness. The more you pass the puree through the sieve, the smoother it will be. Taste the puree for seasoning and adjust accordingly.
What is another name for potato puree?
Potato puree is often referred to as pomme puree, which is the French term for mashed potato.
What's the difference between pomme puree and mashed potato?
While some consider pomme puree to be a fancier version of mashed potato, there are slight differences between the two. Mashed potatoes are typically made with potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper, resulting in a somewhat lumpy and rustic texture. On the other hand, pomme puree is made with potatoes, cream, butter, salt, and pepper, and is pureed in a food processor for a smooth and fluffy consistency.
Is puree of potatoes good for you?
Smoked potato puree, like traditional mashed potatoes, is a starchy dish that provides carbohydrates and some vitamins and minerals. However, the addition of cream and butter in smoked potato puree adds extra calories and fat. As with any food, moderation is key.
Which potatoes are best for puree?
The best potatoes for making puree, whether traditional mashed potatoes or smoked potato puree, are those with a higher starch content. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are excellent choices, as they become light and fluffy when cooked and mashed.
Smoked potato puree, or pomme puree, is a delicious and sophisticated twist on traditional mashed potatoes. With its smooth and creamy texture and smoky flavor, it's a side dish that will impress your guests and elevate any meal. By following the simple recipe provided, you can easily recreate this culinary delight at home. So why not give smoked potato puree a try and experience the indulgence for yourself?
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