Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

• 3 lbs boiling potatoes, such as Yukon gold, peeled
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 lb unsalted butter
• 3/4-1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Directions

1. 1

   In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water and 2 tablespoons of salt to a boil. Meanwhile, cut the potatoes into 1 1/2-inch cubes and add them to the boiling water. Bring the water to a boil again, lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, until the potatoes fall apart easily when pierced with a fork.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, heat the milk and butter in a small saucepan, making sure it doesn't boil. Set aside until the potatoes are done.

3. 3

   As soon as the potatoes are tender, drain them in a colander. Mash potaotes with a potato masher and/or electric mixer. As soon as the potatoes are mashed, stir in the hot milk-and-butter mixture with a whisk or rubber spatula. Add enough buttermilk to make the potatoes creamy.

4. 4

   Add 2 teaspoons of salt and the pepper, to taste, and serve hot.