5-6 large potatoes
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
1/2 tsp. salt, divided
fresh ground pepper (optional)
1/4 cup milk

Peal about 5 or 6 large potatoes. Rinse potatoes in cold water. After rinsing, cut the potatoes into bite size pieces.

Place potatoes in pot covering all the potatoes with water. Add about 1/4 tsp. of salt. Bring to a boil, checking potatoes in 10 minute increments (poking with a fork until tender is the best way).

Once potatoes are ready, drain off existing water, place potatoes into a large mixing bowl, add butter and the remaining 1/4 tsp. salt. Cover and let sit for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until butter is soft.

MIXING:

With an electric mixer (immersion "stick" blender is best), start on slow speed, to knock the chunks into smaller pieces, then progress to high, blend until completely lump free. Stir potatoes with regular mixing spoon, add 1/4 cup milk and mix. Once completely blended, whip potatoes. Voila! They are ready to serve!

Note: Some variety of potatoes need a little more milk to whip nicely, or sometimes need a tad bit more salt. Adjust if necessary. Add freshly ground pepper while mixing, if desired.

Submitted by: B. McFarland