When faced with a hefty bag of potatoes waiting to be mashed, I’m all about finding the simplest solution. While a food processor or stand mixer might seem like a handy option, they’re not the best for creating the perfect mash. That’s where the potato ricer comes in.
What’s a Potato Ricer?
Think of a potato ricer as a supersized garlic press. Cooked potatoes go into a hopper basket with small holes, and then a lever or twisting motion is used to push them through. This gentle process ensures that the potatoes remain fluffy and don’t turn gummy from overworking the starch.
Testing Potato Ricers
After putting nine potato ricers to the test with a whopping 18 pounds of potatoes, I found two winners:
- Joseph Joseph Helix Potato Ricer: This ricer uses a unique twisting motion instead of a lever, making it fast and easy to use. Its simple design also makes cleanup a breeze.
- Chef’n FreshForce Potato Ricer: Perfect for those who prefer the traditional press-style ricer, this model effortlessly presses potatoes with minimal effort. Plus, it’s easy to clean with a detachable hopper basket.
What We Discovered
All the ricers produced silky, fluffy mashed potatoes, but some were more user-friendly than others. The key was simplicity and sturdiness. Models with fewer crevices and solid handles were the most comfortable to use and clean.
Additional Insights
- One press plate is sufficient for potato ricers; extra plates are unnecessary.
- Models with more holes might seem faster, but they’re also trickier to clean.
- Look for a ricer with dishwasher-safe parts to simplify cleanup.
Our Recommendations
- Joseph Joseph Helix Potato Ricer
- Chef’n FreshForce Potato Ricer
- Norpro Deluxe Jumbo Potato Ricer
FAQs
- How do you use a potato ricer? Place cooked potatoes in the hopper and apply pressure with a lever or twisting motion to push them through the small holes.
- What’s the point of ricing potatoes? Ricing ensures fluffy mashed potatoes without making them gummy.
- How do you clean a potato ricer? Most models are dishwasher-safe, but handwashing with a bottle brush works well too.
In conclusion, when it comes to making the perfect mashed potatoes, a reliable potato ricer is your best friend.
