Mashed potatoes without milk tends to just taste different, no matter what the substitute. You just can't get that iconic rich and creamy texture they're known for.
However, an allergy, intolerance, or dietary restriction can lead many to search for a reasonable substitute for milk in mashed potatoes. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives to dairy milk, like almond milk, cashew milk, soy milk, and oat milk, to name a few.
In this article we cover what milk does in mashed potatoes, why it's needed, and then some of the best substitutes for milk in mashed potatoes.
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What Does Milk Do in Mashed Potatoes?
Milk contributes to the dish's smooth and creamy texture, helping to bind the potatoes together and creating a well-rounded flavor profile that's both savory and slightly sweet. The fat in milk balances out the starchiness of the potatoes, while its flavor adds a slight sweetness to the dish.
This flavor can also help to balance the salty and savory flavors. Even using different types of milk, such as coconut milk or almond milk, can enhance this sweetness and add a touch of flavor to the dish.
Why Use a Milk Substitute?
Dietary Restrictions
Many people are lactose intolerant, meaning they cannot digest lactose (like myself), which is the primary natural sugar present in milk. Consuming milk can also cause some people digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, apart from a lactose intolerance, almost always due to an absence or low presence of the lactase enzyme in the stomach.
Vegan or Plant-Based Diet
For individuals following a vegan or plant-based diet, using a milk substitute in mashed potatoes is just necessary. Vegans exclude all animal products from their diet, including milk and dairy products, so using a milk substitute is a necessity to allow them to enjoy this classic dish without compromising their dietary choices.
Flavor Variations
Milk alternatives are commonly employed to add a greater depth of flavor to mashed potatoes. Almond, coconut, soy, and oat milk are some more favored choices to complement the savory flavor of mashed potatoes. Using one or another allows for a more personalized flavor profile that caters to individual preferences and tastes.
Texture
Incorporating a milk alternative can however impact the consistency of your mashed potatoes. For instance, sour cream or cream cheese can give off a denser and silkier texture, whereas chicken or vegetable broth can produce a more delicate and airy consistency.
Best Milk Substitutes in Mashed Potatoes
Instant Mashed Potatoes
Add as much as needed until you reach your desired consistency
Although it may seem like an unconventional choice, using even more mashed potatoes can help out with your milk problem. Adding small amounts of reconstituted instant mashed potatoes into a dish can help achieve a creamy, buttery texture similar to that of milk.
It's not only budget-friendly but also a great way to use up instant potatoes from the back of the pantry or even the leftover mash you made the other day (fresh or frozen).
Heavy Cream
1 cup of milk = ¼ cup of heavy cream
Heavy cream is a more commonly used alternative that adds richness and flavor. Just boil, drain, and mash the potatoes with heavy cream until smooth and creamy. The heavy cream adds a velvety texture and subtle sweetness, making the dish even more delicious.
Sour Cream
1 cup of milk = ⅓ cup of sour cream
Sour cream is an excellent ingredient to use in mashed potatoes as it adds a delicious tangy flavor and creamy texture. When boiled potatoes are mashed with sour cream, it creates a rich and indulgent dish that's perfect for any meal. It even helps to keep the potatoes moist and creamy for longer occasions when you wanna store some for later.
Yogurt
1 cup of milk = ½ cup of yogurt
Yogurt is a superb and healthy alternative that adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture, which complements the savory taste of the potatoes. This can be thanks to its richness in probiotics, protein, and calcium, an ideal choice for those who want to make a healthier version of mashed potatoes.
Half and Half
1 cup of milk = use equal parts or ¾ quarter cup of heavy cream + ¼ cup of water
This mix of around 2 parts milk and one part cream adds a richness to mashed potatoes without overwhelming the dish with calories. It can even be flavored with herbs, spices, or garlic to create a unique and delicious taste.
Cream Cheese
1 cup of milk = ½ cup of soft cream cheese
If you want a more delicious and luscious twist to the classic mashed potatoes, then using cream cheese is your best pick. It's also low histamine and relatively easy to find.
This soft and spreadable cheese, made from a combination of milk and cream, is an excellent addition to mashed potatoes as it brings a unique flavor, tanginess, and creamy texture to your dish. It's a perfect ingredient to indulge in and elevate the taste of mashed potatoes.
Buttermilk
1 cup of milk = ½ cup of buttermilk
Buttermilk is a simple yet delicious ingredient that can add a tangy flavor and creamy texture to mashed potatoes. This fermented dairy product is produced by adding lactic acid bacteria to milk, creating a tangy and slightly acidic taste.
It's just an effortless way to give this classic side dish a unique and tasty twist. It's also a great source of calcium, protein, and vitamins, making it an equally healthy ingredient to use as well.
Mayonnaise
1 cup of milk = ⅓ cup of mayonnaise
Mayonnaise is a unique and flavorful ingredient that can add a creamy texture and tangy taste while bringing richness and indulgence. Try making a homemade aioli with lemon juice and egg yolks before a store-bought mayo.
The tangy taste complements the savory flavor of potatoes. It's also a great source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help to improve heart health.
More Butter
1 cup of milk = ⅓ cup of butter
Adding more butter to mashed potatoes has always been a timeless and decadent way to infuse richness, flavor, and texture into dishes. Naturally, increasing the amount already present in mashed potatoes can intensify the taste and texture of the dish.
However, butter is high in fat and calories, so it's not the healthiest option by far. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can try using olive oil or tolerated vegetable oil instead.
Evaporated Milk
1 cup of milk = ½ cup of evaporated milk
This canned milk product has undergone a process of removing about 60% of its water content, which creates a thicker and creamier consistency than regular milk. Its long shelf life makes it a convenient ingredient to keep on hand in the pantry.
It can even be used as a substitute for cream in soups and sauces, added to coffee or tea as a creamer, or used in desserts like custards and pies, as long as you tolerate it.
Oat Milk
1 cup of milk = 1 cup of oat milk
Oat milk is a dairy-free milk alternative that's become increasingly popular in recent years. It's made by blending oats with water and then straining the mixture to create a smooth and creamy liquid.
This is a perfect choice for those who are lactose intolerant, allergic to dairy, or who follow a vegan or plant-based diet. It's also naturally sweet and has a mild, nutty flavor that compliments many different dishes.
Rice Milk
1 cup of milk = 1 cup of rice milk
Rice milk is a great alternative to dairy milk, as it's a mild and slightly sweet milk that can be used as a substitute for regular milk in many recipes, including mashed potatoes.
It's also low in fat and calories and an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium and vitamin D, which can help to improve bone health.
Canned Coconut Milk
1 cup of milk = 1 cup canned coconut milk
Canned coconut milk is another very popular dairy-free milk alternative made by blending coconut flesh with water and then straining the mixture to create a thick and creamy liquid.
Just remember that the coconut milk will add a rich and creamy texture as well asadding a subtle sweetness that complements the savory taste of the potatoes. It's even a good source of healthy fats, which will help to improve heart health.
Almond Milk
1 cup of milk = 1 cup of almond milk
Almond milk is a fantastic milky alternative made by blending almonds with water and then straining the mixture to create a smooth and creamy liquid. Perfect for those who are looking for a healthier alternative to dairy milk.
One major benefit of almond milk is that it's naturally low in calories and fat and rich in vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage.
Soy Milk
1 cup of milk = 1 cup of soy milk
Soy milk is a popular plant-based milk alternative made from whole soybeans, or soy protein isolate mixed with water. One of its main highlights is that it's a great source of protein, containing around 7-10 grams of protein per cup.
It's a perfect choice for those who depend on milk as a source of protein.
Vegetable Stock or Broth
1 cup of milk = 1 cup of vegetable stock or broth
Even adding vegetable stock or broth can create a delicious flavor and depth to this classic dish. Not only does it provide a delicious savory taste, but it also makes the dish suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
You can also experiment with different vegetables or stock and broth types to create unique flavor profiles. For example, using mushroom broth can add a deep umami flavor, while using onion broth can add a tangy sweetness.
Silken Tofu
1 cup of milk = ½ cup of silken tofu
If you're looking for a way to make your mashed potatoes creamier and more nutritious, then using silken tofu is your best shot. Silken tofu is a type of tofu that has a smooth and custardy texture.
You can even experiment with different types of tofu for varying textures and flavors. Let's say, for example, using firm tofu instead of silken tofu. This can add a chewy texture and a nutty flavor to the mashed potatoes.
Creme Fraiche
1 cup of milk = ½ cup of creme fraiche
Crème fraîche is a French cultured cream that's similar to sour cream but with a milder and creamier taste. It's made by adding bacterial cultures to heavy cream, which thickens and sours the cream. The result is a rich and tangy cream with a higher fat content than sour cream, giving it a smoother and creamier texture.
Cashew Milk
1 cup of milk = ½ cup of cashew milk
Cashew milk is a non-dairy, creamy, and nutty milk alternative made from ground cashews and water. Just replace milk with cashew milk for a creamier and nutty delight. It's naturally lactose-free and vegan, and is lower in calories and fat than regular milk.
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