Before you judge, hear me out. (Or, read me out!)
Coffee in mashed potatoes? Yup!
I stumbled upon this unlikely combination during a late-night experimentation session fueled by, well, Buff Boy coffee, and the results were surprisingly spectacular. These coffee-infused garlic mashed potatoes are now a staple in my kitchen.
The secret lies in using a strong coffee reduction to subtly enhance the savory notes of the garlic and potatoes. Don't worry, you won't taste coffee like you're drinking it with a side of spuds. The coffee simply adds a depth of flavor, a hint of bitterness that balances the richness of the butter and cream, and a unique warmth that will leave you wanting more.
Here's what you'll need:
Potatoes: About 2 lb. of Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and quartered.
Coffee: 1 cup of strongly brewed coffee (I prefer a dark roast).
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced.
Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted.
Cream: 1/2 cup heavy cream.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Optional: Fresh chives or parsley for garnish.
Let's get mashing!
Reduce the Coffee: In a small saucepan, simmer the brewed coffee over medium heat until it reduces to about 1/4 cup. This will concentrate the coffee flavor. Set aside.
Boil the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Sauté the Garlic: While the potatoes are boiling, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Mash Away! Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, the sautéed garlic, the coffee reduction and the heavy cream.
Season and Serve: Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy using a potato masher or an electric mixer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley, if desired.
This is a perfect side dish for roasted chicken, grilled steak or even a hearty vegetarian stew. They're a surprising and delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Brew a pot of your favorite Buff Boy coffee, give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think! You might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy mashed potatoes.