Potato Ghosts

Ingredients for Potato Ghosts

• 1.8kg large boiling potatoes (preferably white-fleshed)

• 3/4 stick unsalted butter, cut into pieces

• 300ml whole milk

• 3 large egg yolks

• Nigella seeds (sometimes mislabeled "black onion seeds") or caraway seeds for garnish

• Equipment: a potato ricer or a food mill fitted with medium disk

• a pastry bag with 3/4-inch plain tip

How to make Potato Ghosts

Peel and quarter potatoes, then cover with water in a 4-quart pot and season well with salt. Simmer, partially covered, until tender, 15 to 20 minutes.

While potatoes are simmering, heat butter and milk in a small saucepan until butter is melted. Remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

Preheat oven to 204°C with rack in middle.

Drain potatoes and force through ricer into a large bowl (or mixer bowl if using stand mixer). Beat in milk mixture, yolks, and 1/2 teaspoons each of salt and pepper with an electric mixer at low speed until combined.

Spread about one-third of potatoes in a buttered 1 1/2-quart shallow ovenproof dish. Transfer remaining potatoes to pastry bag. Pipe potatoes close together into 2 1/2- to 3-inch-high pointed mounds to form "'ghosts" and garnish each mound with 2 seeds for "eyes."

Bake until tips of ghosts are golden and potatoes are firm, 20 to 25 minutes.

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.