Ingredients:
- 1 head of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 lbs (900g) Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 teaspoon salt (for the potato water)
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warmed
- 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream, warmed (optional, for extra richness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut off the top of the garlic head. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Wrap in foil and roast until soft and golden, about 45-60 minutes.
- While the garlic roasts, place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Allow them to steam dry for a minute. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or ricer.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins into the mashed potatoes. Add warm milk, softened butter, and warmed heavy cream (if using).
- Whip until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped fresh chives before serving.