Instant mashed potatoes, with their promise of quick comfort, are a popular choice for busy cooks. But are they a match for the real thing? Let’s find out.
Instant mashed potatoes, developed in 1962 by a Canadian scientist, offer convenience without the hassle of peeling and boiling potatoes. They boast a similar nutritional profile to homemade mashed potatoes, although they can be higher in sodium due to added seasonings.
In our challenge, I prepared my own recipe for Perfect Mashed Potatoes, learned during my culinary training in Paris. The key to this recipe is using a food mill, though a potato masher works just as well.
Cost-wise, homemade mashed potatoes are a clear winner, coming in at $3.99 for a five-pound bag of Yukon Gold potatoes, plus 75 cents for butter and milk. This translates to just 23 cents per serving, compared to 35 cents per serving for instant mashed potatoes.
In terms of taste, there’s no contest. In a blind taste test with firefighters, all seven participants preferred the homemade mashed potatoes. They noted the rich flavor and creamy texture of the homemade version, while describing the instant mashed potatoes as bland and overly salty.
While instant mashed potatoes offer convenience, they often contain artificial ingredients and lack the depth of flavor found in homemade mashed potatoes. For a special occasion like Thanksgiving, it’s worth taking the time to prepare the real thing.
In conclusion, when it comes to mashed potatoes, homemade is the way to go. With their superior taste, lower cost, and natural ingredients, homemade mashed potatoes are a delicious and nutritious addition to any holiday meal.