Using an Ice Cream Scoop for Mashed Potatoes: Genius or Madness?
If you are a fan of mashed potatoes, you probably know just how difficult it can be to get them just right. One of the challenges many home cooks face when preparing mashed potatoes is how to portion them out onto plates without making a mess. While some people just scoop them up with a spoon, others have suggested using an ice cream scoop. But is this a genius hack or pure madness?
Benefits of Using an Ice Cream Scoop
One of the main benefits of using an ice cream scoop for mashed potatoes is that it can help to ensure that your portions are consistent. This is especially helpful if you are serving mashed potatoes as a side dish at a dinner party or holiday meal.
Another benefit of using an ice cream scoop is that it can help to make your mashed potatoes look more professional. By using a scoop, you can create perfectly-shaped rounds of mashed potatoes that are sure to impress your guests.
Downsides of Using an Ice Cream Scoop
While there are certainly benefits to using an ice cream scoop for mashed potatoes, there are also some downsides to consider. One of the main issues is that an ice cream scoop may not be the most practical tool for the job.
For one thing, ice cream scoops are typically made of metal and can get very hot when used to scoop hot mashed potatoes. This can not only be uncomfortable, but also potentially dangerous.
Tips for Using an Ice Cream Scoop for Mashed Potatoes
If you do decide to give the ice cream scoop method a try, there are a few things you can do to make the process go more smoothly:
- Make sure your mashed potatoes are not too wet, as this can make them difficult to scoop
- Grease the scoop lightly with butter or cooking spray to help prevent sticking
- If the scoop does get too hot, run it under cold water for a few seconds to cool it down
The Verdict: Go for It!
While using an ice cream scoop for mashed potatoes may not be the conventional approach, it can be a fun and effective way to serve up this classic side dish. Just be sure to take the necessary precautions to avoid burns and make sure your mashed potatoes are the right consistency for scooping.
Other Ways to Serve Mashed Potatoes
If you decide the ice cream scoop method is not for you, there are plenty of other ways to serve mashed potatoes that are just as delicious. Some popular options include:
- Serving them in a large, family-style bowl and letting everyone scoop out their own portion
- Piping the mashed potatoes onto plates using a pastry bag
- Forming the mashed potatoes into patties and pan-frying them for a crispy exterior
