Unlock the secret to creamy, lump-free mashed potatoes

TikToker and professional chef Poppy O'Toole has captured the hearts of millions of social media users with her practical recipes and culinary tips. Known online as "Poppy Cooks," she uses her experience gained in Michelin-starred restaurants to make cooking accessible to everyone.

Poppy, known as the "Potato Queen," has gained devoted fans thanks to her perfect potato preparation techniques, which she even showcased live on the show "This Morning." However, her most famous creation is the layered potato parfait, which takes up to 15 hours to prepare.

On her website, Poppy shares the "Mash-terclass," a lesson on preparing perfect mashed potatoes. She believes she has created "the smoothest, creamiest mash."

There will be no excuses for lumpy, bland mashed potato ever again, says Poppy, encouraging home cooks to use a classic kitchen tool to achieve perfectly creamy mashed potatoes.

Poppy emphasizes that you don't need expensive devices to achieve a smooth mash texture. A simple sieve is enough to achieve a silky consistency without lumps. "My technique may require a bit of effort but I promise you it delivers," she adds.

To enjoy smooth, creamy mashed potatoes at home, Poppy shares the following tips:

1. Cut the potatoes into slices about 2.5 centimetres thick, so they cook evenly.
2. Place them in a wide and deep pot, so they form a single layer at the bottom.
3. Put the potatoes in cold water and only then heat them. The water should be well-salted.
4. After draining the potatoes, leave them in a colander, covered, to let any remaining moisture evaporate.
5. Press the cooked potatoes through a sieve, which ensures an ultra-smooth consistency and prevents excessive starch release.
6. For a velvety finish, add heavy cream with a fat content of about 36% at a temperature equal to or higher than the potatoes.

With these simple but effective steps, anyone can prepare mashed potatoes that will impress even the most demanding gourmets.