Image Source from Ermegeden

Leftover Mashed Potato Balls: A Delicious Way to Reduce Food Waste

As the festive season wraps up and the family feasts come to an end, many of us find ourselves staring at a mountain of leftover mashed potatoes. While the classic comfort food is delightful on its own, have you ever thought of transforming those creamy remnants into something new and exciting? Enter the innovative and delicious leftover mashed potato balls. This simple yet flavoursome dish not only helps reduce food waste but also offers a creative twist to a beloved staple.

Why Mashed Potato Balls?

Turning leftover mashed potatoes into balls is an ideal way to repurpose food that might otherwise go to waste. Mashed potato balls are incredibly versatile: they can be served as bites for a snack, a side dish to accompany a main meal, or even as a starter at your next family gathering. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be tailored to suit your taste preferences.

The Basic Recipe

Making leftover mashed potato balls is straightforward. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup of grated cheese (Cheddar or whatever you have on hand)
• 1 egg
• ½ cup of breadcrumbs (either store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped chives, herbs, or cooked bacon bits for extra flavour
• Oil for frying (if you choose the frying method)

Method:

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, grated cheese, egg, and any optional ingredients you like. Season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well-combined.

2. Form the Balls: Using your hands, take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball about the size of a golf ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.

3. Coat (Optional): For an extra crispy exterior, roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat.

4. Cooking Methods:

   • Frying: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the potato balls and fry until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, around 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and drain on kitchen paper.
   • Baking: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Place the potato balls on a baking tray lined with baking paper and lightly spray or brush with oil. Bake for around 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden and crispy.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your mashed potato balls hot, perhaps with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkling of fresh herbs, or even spicy ketchup on the side.

Variations to Try

The beauty of mashed potato balls lies in their adaptability. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Spicy Mashed Potato Balls: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to incorporate some heat.
• Mediterranean Flavour: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
• Smoke and Cheese: Incorporate smoked cheese and finely chopped green onions for a rich, smoky flavour.

Conclusion

Leftover mashed potato balls are not only a fantastic way to utilise what might otherwise be surplus food, but they also bring a new level of enjoyment to an old favourite. They offer texture, flavour, and creativity all in one bite. So, next time you find yourself with a tub of leftover mashed potatoes, don’t despair. Instead, turn them into these delicious and mouthwatering balls – your family will thank you! Enjoy experimenting with flavours and share your creations as you bring a delightful twist to your home cooking.

No items listed in the response.