Mashed Potatoes with Brown Butter, Goat Cheese, and Sage

1 . Stage

Boil the potatoes: Place the potatoes and salt in a pot and fill the pot with cold water until the potatoes are covered. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until a fork easily pierces the potatoes. Drain the water from the potatoes.

2 . Stage

Brown the butter: Place the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. (Use a stainless steel saucepan so you can see the butter browning.) Let the butter melt and continue to watch it as it cooks. The butter will foam for a bit and then calm down. After a few minutes, flecks of brown will appear at the bottom of the pan. When you see this, and the melted butter takes on a nutty aroma, take it off the heat. (See How to Brown Butter .)

3 . Stage

Add sage and pour over potatoes: Add the chopped sage to the butter (it may cause some foaming). Pour over the potatoes.

4 . Stage

Add the goat cheese and milk and mash the potatoes: with a potato masher until smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated. Salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.