Mash with Gravy: A Comfort Food Classic with a Rich History
Mash with gravy is a beloved comfort food that has been enjoyed across households for generations. Known for its simple yet hearty nature, this classic dish combines creamy mashed potatoes with a rich gravy. This timeless pairing provides warmth and satisfaction, making it a staple at family dinners, holiday feasts, and even casual weeknight meals.
The Origins of Mash with Gravy
The history of mashed potatoes dates back to the 18th century, with some claiming the dish originated in France, while others credit English cooks with its creation. Regardless of its exact origins, mashed potatoes quickly became a staple throughout Europe due to their affordability and the widespread cultivation of potatoes. The soft, whipped texture of mashed potatoes made them an ideal side dish, especially when paired with hearty main courses like roasts or sausages.
Gravy, on the other hand, has long been a cornerstone of traditional British and French cuisine. Gravy was historically made by deglazing the pan after cooking meat, using the flavourful drippings to create a savoury sauce that could enhance any dish. Over time, variations of gravy emerged, from classic meat-based versions to vegetarian and vegan alternatives, all designed to add depth and richness to the dish.
Why Mash with Gravy Remains Popular Today
Mash with gravy is more than just a side dish; it’s a symbol of comfort and home cooking. Its versatility makes it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes, whether you’re serving it with roast chicken, beef stew, or a plant-based meal. With its ability to absorb flavours and complement hearty main courses, mashed potatoes with gravy can elevate any dining experience.
For home cooks, mash with gravy offers the perfect balance between simplicity and flavour. Making mashed potatoes is straightforward, requiring only a few ingredients: potatoes, butter, milk, and seasoning. The gravy, meanwhile, allows for creativity, with options ranging from traditional beef or chicken gravies to more modern mushroom or onion-based variations.
Chef Tips for the Perfect Mash with Gravy
When preparing mash with gravy, there are a few tips to ensure your dish is restaurant-quality:
- Choose the right potatoes: Starchy potatoes are best for achieving that light and fluffy texture.
- Don’t skimp on seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential, but adding roasted garlic and fresh herbs can give your mashed potatoes an extra flavour boost.
- Gravy texture is key: Whether you’re making a classic meat-based gravy or a plant-based alternative, ensure the sauce is smooth and rich. A good gravy should coat the mashed potatoes without being too thick or watery.
Mash with Gravy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 agria potatoes
- 75g butter
- 75ml milk
- A pinch of salt and pepper
- You will also need:
- Some leftover gravy
- 2tbsp neutral oil
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- Chopped chives to serve
Instructions
- Mash: bake the potatoes in their skins at 180 degrees for an hour or until soft in the middle when tested with a skewer or sharp knife.
- Meanwhile, make the gravy: heat the oil in a pan, and sweat down the sliced shallots on high heat with a little salt. Once they have collapsed, turn the heat to the lowest setting and continue to cook for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until they’re soft, dark and caramelised.
- Back to the mash, melt the butter in a medium pan with the milk and some salt and pepper. Whilst as hot as you can handle, cut the cooked potatoes in half and push through a fine sieve using the skin to help you. Add the still-warm potato to the milk, working them together and adding in additional butter and milk as required, to get the desired consistency.
- Finish the gravy: once the shallots are soft and caramelised, pour in the gravy to warm through and check for seasoning. We added a squeeze of lemon. Serve the mash alongside the gravy, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped chives.
