A delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes, incorporating the subtle sweetness of apples for a unique and flavorful side dish.
Peel and dice the potatoes into even-sized chunks.
Cutting the potatoes into uniform pieces ensures they cook evenly.
Place the potatoes in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
Add a pinch of salt to the water to season the potatoes as they cook.
Meanwhile, peel, core, and dice the apples. Finely chop the shallot.
Choose apples that are firm and sweet for the best flavor.
In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté the apples and shallot until soft, about 10 minutes.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the saucepan.
Let the potatoes sit for a minute in the hot pan to evaporate excess moisture.
Add the sautéed apples and shallot to the potatoes and mash together with a potato masher.
Mash to your desired consistency, leaving some chunks for texture if preferred.
Add the remaining butter, cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper, and mix with an electric mixer until smooth.
Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve the mashed potatoes warm, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg or fresh herbs if desired.
For a decorative touch, use a spoon to create swirls on the surface before garnishing.