Mashed potatoes hold a special place in our hearts, often serving as more than just a side dish. For many, they are a warm, nostalgic comfort food that stirs cherished memories around the family dinner table.

Have you ever wondered if there’s a way to elevate your mashed potatoes to a whole new level? A popular TikTok hack has inspired many cooks to rethink the traditional method, suggesting a simple change in the way we cook them.

Popular TikTok user Jourdyn Parks, known as @jeauxp, has shared her unique take on making mashed potatoes, captivating food lovers with her unconventional yet effective technique. Instead of boiling the potatoes in plain water, Parks recommends using a flavorful stock to imbue the potatoes with a rich, savory taste.

“Sure, you can boil potatoes in water,” Parks explained to BuzzFeed in an interview following the widespread popularity of her tip. “It’s definitely the most common method. But why opt for water when you can choose something as flavorful as stock or broth?”

A Game Changer for Mashed Potatoes

Parks’ method is ingenious in its simplicity, yet revolutionary in its impact. She begins by washing the potatoes thoroughly before rubbing them with a bit of avocado oil. Leaving the skin on for texture is her preference, though peeling is certainly acceptable for those who like a smoother mash. Once the potatoes are halved, they go into a pot with enough stock to cover them, alongside a cup of water and a dash of sea salt.

Sharing her technique with her followers, Parks insists that boiling potatoes in stock transforms them, locking in more flavor and achieving a creamier result. Her video, full of her infectious enthusiasm, has received countless likes and shares, as viewers discover the magic of her method.

The Science Behind Stock-Boiled Potatoes

Curiosity piqued, many home cooks have put Parks’ method to the test by boiling one batch of potatoes in chicken stock and another in plain water. The difference was astounding.

The potatoes boiled in stock exhibited a deeper, more robust flavor profile, while their texture was notably silkier than that of their water-boiled counterparts. Remarkably, these seasoned spuds required little to no additional spices, making them a delightful and flavorful side dish, perfect for pairing with any protein or vegetable main.

Dreaming Up Tasty Variations

Parks’ stock-boiling technique has inspired many to experiment with their mashed potatoes. Adding ingredients such as sour cream and chives, a drizzle of heavy cream, or even a touch of nutmeg can further enhance the dish. For those who enjoy a more rustic version, keeping the skins on not only adds texture but also creates an attractive homemade appearance.

Crediting her grandmother for the inspiration behind this trick, Parks’ method reflects a time-honored tradition of infusing a family favorite with bold flavors. The stock method doesn’t just add taste—it elevates mashed potatoes to a centerpiece status, deserving of admiration at any dinner gathering.

Up for the Challenge?

Ready to give your mashed potatoes a flavorful makeover? Next time you’re preparing them, consider substituting stock for water. Whether you choose chicken, beef, or vegetable stock, this easy change could elevate your potatoes to a dish that will have everyone singing your culinary praises.

Don’t settle for the ordinary when you can easily create extraordinary, flavorful mashed potatoes!