Different Uses for a Potato Masher
Datetime:2012-07-30 Hits:
Different Uses for a Potato Masher
While the name might imply that it has one function, in reality a potato masher is useful for many kitchen tasks. Most mashers feature a rubber or wooden handle with stainless steel wires extending from the handle to the head of the masher plate. Different plate designs include holes, stainless steel wires bent into a wave pattern or a plate with lines cut out instead of holes. Whichever you choose, a potato masher is an affordable kitchen utensil that doubles as a dicer, mixer and vegetable crusher without taking up extra space or requiring any extra elbow grease.
Print this articleCrushing Tomatoes for Sauce
Many homemade tomato sauce recipes call for whole peeled tomatoes to be crushed while they simmer in a pot with olive oil and garlic. A potato masher is a great tool for this task as it leaves the tomatoes slightly chunky, adding texture to the sauce.
Cookie Crumbs
Fresh cookie crumbs are easily made by pouring whole cookies into a bowl and mashing them with a potato masher. Since you are controlling the masher, you can control how large or small your crumbs. Finer crumbs work best for pie crusts while larger chunks make a great ingredient for homemade ice cream, cakes and pie filling.
Mixing Meat
Mixing meat for dishes, such as hamburgers and meat loaf, is made easier with a potato masher. The openings of the masher ensure the meat won't turn to a puree from over-mashing and it is easy to evenly incorporate and mix in additional ingredients, such as herbs, spices, diced vegetables and sauces.
Dice Eggs
To easily mash eggs for egg salads or to crumble over salads, position your masher directly over hard-boiled eggs (peel removed) and firmly, but gently, push down until the egg is diced.
Making Hummus
Hummus is a spread or dip made of mashed chickpeas, tahini sauce, garlic, lemon juice and salt. Chickpeas are easily mashed with a potato masher and the additional ingredients can be blended into the mashed beans to complete the dish. Mash for a longer time for a smoother consistency, less time for a dip with more texture.
Homemade Baby Food
Use a potato masher to mash fresh fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, soft apples, peaches, steamed peas, carrots and squash for fresh homemade baby food.
