If you love mashed potatoes but want to take your favorite comfort food to the next level, TikTok has a new twist that’s transforming kitchens everywhere. It’s easy, flavorful, and adds a surprising depth to this timeless dish. With a few simple changes, mashed potatoes are going from a traditional staple to a gourmet experience.
The TikTok Twist: Chicken Stock for Creaminess
The viral TikTok hack, shared by Jourdyn (@jeauxp), offers a unique twist: instead of relying on traditional butter and milk, she suggests using chicken stock to infuse your mashed potatoes with extra flavor. While butter and cream create richness, chicken stock adds an umami flavor that makes the dish taste more savory and robust.
Why does chicken stock make such a difference? For starters, it’s packed with natural flavors from vegetables, herbs, and spices simmered together. When this stock is absorbed by the potatoes, it enhances their flavor in a way that milk or cream alone simply can’t. By eliminating the need for dairy, this recipe also appeals to those seeking a lighter option or individuals with lactose intolerance. Jourdyn’s twist makes mashed potatoes smoother and more flavorful without the heaviness that cream sometimes adds.
Adding Texture: Leave the Skins On
Another notable change suggested by Jourdyn is leaving the potato skins on. This technique not only saves time (no more peeling!), but it also introduces a rustic, hearty texture that many people love. The skins contain nutrients, including fiber, potassium, and iron, so keeping them in the recipe makes it healthier, too. Texture is an important element in food, and the combination of creamy mashed potatoes with slightly chewy skin pieces offers a satisfying contrast.
If you prefer a smoother texture, you can remove the skins as usual. However, for a rustic, homestyle version, leaving them on can enhance the dish both visually and nutritionally. The skins add an earthiness that complements the deep, savory notes brought by the chicken stock.
Elevate Your Mashed Potatoes: Additional Ingredients
What makes this TikTok hack even more exciting is the possibility of customization. TikTok users have expanded Jourdyn’s original idea, experimenting with various ingredients that take the dish to new heights. A popular addition is sour cream, which brings a tangy flavor to the potatoes, balancing out the richness of the stock. You can also mix in chives for a fresh, herby note, or roasted garlic for a bit of sweetness and a deeper umami taste.
Other additions you could try include parmesan cheese, which adds a salty, nutty flavor, or a touch of cream cheese for an extra smooth and velvety consistency. Some cooks have even added bacon bits for crunch or fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme to give a fragrant and aromatic twist. The possibilities are endless, and this dish is the perfect base to let your creativity shine.
Why TikTok Cooking Hacks Are a Hit
TikTok has become a hub for inventive cooking hacks like Jourdyn’s mashed potato recipe. With short, engaging videos, creators showcase fun and often unexpected ways to elevate everyday recipes. These hacks appeal to home cooks of all skill levels, inspiring them to experiment in the kitchen and try new things.
Part of the appeal of TikTok cooking videos is their simplicity. Many hacks are easy to implement, requiring minimal ingredients or effort, yet the results are transformative. These videos make cooking accessible, even to those who might not have considered themselves skilled in the kitchen. In a way, TikTok has democratized cooking, making gourmet-level hacks something anyone can try at home.
Jourdyn’s mashed potato twist is just one example of how TikTok can breathe new life into familiar dishes. Whether you’re looking for ways to save time, reduce waste (no more potato peels!), or just add new flavors to your meals, the platform offers endless inspiration.
A Healthier Take on Comfort Food
By swapping out heavy cream for chicken stock, this TikTok twist also offers a lighter, healthier version of mashed potatoes. The reduction in fat content makes it a great option for those looking to enjoy comfort food without overindulging. Plus, since chicken stock is lower in calories than butter or cream, you can enjoy a larger portion without the guilt.
For those who are dairy-free or looking to cut back on their dairy consumption, this recipe provides an excellent alternative. The absence of butter and milk doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor—in fact, the chicken stock provides a richness all its own that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
How to Perfect Your Mashed Potatoes
If you’re ready to give this TikTok trend a try, here’s a simple guide to get you started:
- Choose the right potatoes: For the best mashed potatoes, use starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Gold. These types of potatoes become light and fluffy when mashed, making them ideal for this recipe.
- Cook the potatoes properly: Boil your potatoes until they’re soft but not falling apart. Overcooking can lead to watery mashed potatoes.
- Mash gently: Use a potato masher or ricer to mash the potatoes. Avoid using a blender or food processor, which can make the potatoes gummy.
- Add chicken stock: Instead of cream or milk, add warm chicken stock to the potatoes. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach your desired consistency.
- Season well: Don’t forget to season your mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add garlic, herbs, or even a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Mashed potatoes have always been a favorite, but TikTok has shown us that even the classics can be reinvented. Jourdyn’s simple swap of chicken stock for cream not only enhances the flavor but also opens up a world of possibilities for customization. Whether you stick to the basics or experiment with additional ingredients, one thing is for sure—your mashed potatoes will never be the same again.
Try this viral TikTok twist today and discover the secret to perfect mashed potatoes with a savory, gourmet touch!