Skip to main content

Mashed Potatoes

This recipe for dairy-free mashed potatoes offers a luxurious alternative to the traditional butter-laden side dish. By using schmaltz—rendered chicken or goose fat—the potatoes take on a deep, savoury depth of flavour that pairs beautifully with a Sunday roast or grilled meats. Selecting a floury potato variety like Yukon Gold or King Edward ensures a fluffy, light texture that absorbs the golden fat perfectly without the need for cream or milk.

A celebratory side dish that is naturally lactose-free, these potatoes are refined through a simple steam-drying process to prevent any wateriness. For the best results, using a potato ricer will guarantee a velvet-smooth consistency, though a sturdy masher and a little effort work just as well. Serve these piping hot alongside seasonal vegetables for a comforting, homemade meal.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Mashed Potatoes

  • Potatoes (any kind are good

  • we like Yukon gold)

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • Schmaltz (3 tablespoons per pound of potatoes)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to make Mashed Potatoes

Peel potatoes, and cut them into 2- inch pieces. Place them in a bowl covered with cold water, and soak for 10 minutes to remove starchiness; drain.

Fill a large stockpot about three-quarters full with water, and bring to a boil. Add potatoes and 1 teaspoon salt; cook until tender (about 18 minutes). Drain thoroughly in a colander. To further remove moisture (no one wants watery mashed potatoes), return potatoes to the pot on medium to high heat for a minute or two, turning them constantly so they don't burn.

For the smoothest results, put them through a ricer. If you don't have one, apply a lot of elbow grease to a potato masher. Do not mash them in a food processor or blender; it ruins the fluffy texture. Add 45ml schmaltz per pound of potatoes, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.