Mmmmmm mashed potatoes in minutes

I am a skeptic...blame my mother (sorry mom but you're used to getting thrown under the bus by me I can't change just because it's in a blog).

I am also a mashed potato snob of sorts.
I like to put mine through a ricer, then hand mash them, THEN take the hand mixer to them for light and fluffy homemade mashed potatoes.

I often don't like the restaurant versions that everyone else does and feel I can make them better. I have made mashed potatoes flavored with garlic, Monterey Jack & sour cream, dill, chives, etc. but prefer plain with light salt.

When I'm in a rush, I have my own version of "instant": microwave, peel, and mash with just the hand masher and some milk and butter.

I came up with this method only after trying all the others:
boxed, frozen, refrigerated...and "doctoring" them up to taste a little better.

So when I saw the new Ore-Ida Steam n'Mash potatoes I just couldn't believe it would taste as good as homemade. I read the ingredients and liked it -potatoes, salt, and something I can't pronounce but basically keeps them fresh. The directions were easy too...similar to my quick method but without the peeling...the part I really hate!

And the taste? Well, when I asked the Twofer they said "39 thumbs up!". Why 39? I have no idea. Mr. Scary liked them as well and as for yours truly? A big Twofer Thumbs Up to Ore-Ida Steam n' Mash potatoes from this tater snob! They tasted like real potatoes (they are real potatoes so that's no huge surprise). Had a light and fluffy consistency (and I didn't bring out the ricer or the hand mixer!). And were ready in 13 minutes!

For the record, I bought the plain kind but they come in cheese, garlic, and sweet potatoes too.

I also have a small stack of coupons for $1.00 off for the first 8 people to leave a comment! So if you want one, let me know (and tell me where to send it if you don't live near me).

Mmm eating the leftovers,
ScaryMom

Let's Cut to the Crust, Shall We?

Today I have broken my own rule. Today I have set aside my own beliefs to satisfy the beliefs of others. Today I have lost the battle with the crust.

I cut the crust.
I cut the crust off the grilled cheese.
And now there is no going back.

Long ago I decided to give L & M whatever we ate and since they were 1 they've eaten all kinds of foods most kids wont...wheat bread, tofu, chicken parm, grilled octopus (I kid you not!), AND....bread crust on sandwiches.

Until today.
I gave in. They are getting pickier these days - is that a 5 year old thing? And I'm tired of reminding them, "Yes you do so like peanut butter! Yes you eat the crust, you've eaten it for the last 4 years!"

Today I gave in because I'm tired of the fight, and I'm tired of food going to waste, and I'm tired of eating the leftover food so that it doesn't go to waste!

What's next...white bread???
Scary thought.

ScaryMom