Mashed Potatoes
Russet Potatoes and Duck Gravy
Chef Amanda Turner of Olamaie | Austin, TX
“This is a recipe I have been making for years, especially during the holidays. The Vitamix Commercial immersion blender makes this process so much easier, as all you have to do is finish the cooking and using a large stock pot or Cambro, use the high powered blender to make a smooth, creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with proteins or silky mashed potatoes.” — Chef Amanda Turner
Adapted by StarChefs | January 2025 | Photo: JesSica Attie
INGREDIENTS
Mashed Potatoes:
Yield: 3 quarts
1.2 kilograms russet potatoes, peeled and diced
8 grams kosher salt
300 grams heavy cream
200 grams whole milk
150 grams butter
20 grams thyme
10 grams garlic
Duck Gravy:
Yield: 7 quarts
2 kilograms sliced onions
2 pounds butter
Kosher salt
4 cups all-purpose flour
300 grams brandy
5 quarts duck stock
25 grams ground black pepper
22 grams thyme sprigs
1 quart whole milk
METHOD
For the Duck Gravy:
In a rondeau over medium heat, combine onions and butter. Season with salt and cover with a cartouche. Cook 2 hours, stirring frequently, or until onions are caramelized. In batches, add flour to the rondeau, stirring to prevent lumps. Cook roux about 15 minutes, or until flour is completely hydrated. Add brandy and simmer 5 minutes, or until alcohol dissipates. Add duck stock, black pepper, and thyme. Simmer 1 hour, or until the starchy flour taste is gone. Add milk and cook an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt. Blend using a Vitamix Commercial immersion blender until smooth. Strain through a chinois. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
For the Mashed Potatoes:
In a large pot over medium-high heat, add potatoes and enough water to submerge. Season with salt. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until potatoes are fork-tender. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, bring cream, milk, butter, thyme, and garlic to a simmer. Remove from heat and let steep 10 minutes. Once potatoes are cooked through, strain and transfer to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on low speed, slowly streaming in milk mixture until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Set aside.
To Assemble and Serve:
In a saucepan over low heat, warm Duck Gravy. Place Mashed Potatoes in a large serving bowl. Top with desired amount of warmed Duck Gravy.
