The secret to perfect mashed potatoes – This viral hack changes everything
Discover the simple trick that's taking the internet by storm and making mashed potatoes smoother and creamier than ever.
A viral TikTok hack suggests boiling your potatoes in stock instead of plain water for richer flavor and creamier texture — and food lovers are calling it a game-changer.
Mashed potatoes are a beloved side dish, often associated with warmth, comfort, and family dinners. But for many home cooks, achieving the perfect mashed potato can be tricky. Could the answer to next-level flavor be as simple as changing how you boil them?
Comedian and TikTok creator Jourdyn Parks, known as @jeauxp, thinks so. In her viral video, she shares her unconventional method: boil potatoes in flavorful stock — chicken, beef, or vegetable — instead of water. The result, according to Parks and countless others who’ve tried it, is nothing short of transformational.
“I know you can boil your potatoes in water,” Parks explained to BuzzFeed when the hack first went viral in 2021. “In fact, it’s probably the most common way. I just can’t figure out why you’d choose to when stock and broth are options.”
How the hack works
Parks keeps the process straightforward but emphasizes the importance of stock for flavor.
- Start by washing the potatoes and rubbing them with avocado oil.
- Leave the skin on for texture, or peel them if preferred.
- Halve the potatoes and place them in a pot with a cup of water, a pinch of salt, and enough stock to fully cover them.
- Boil as usual and prepare to be amazed.
Parks explains that boiling the potatoes in stock enhances their flavor and leads to a creamier consistency — no extra seasoning needed.
Putting it to the test – does it work?
Food enthusiasts and home cooks quickly tested the hack to see if stock-boiled potatoes really made a difference. Comparing two batches — one boiled in chicken stock and the other in plain water — the results were clear:
- Flavor: The stock-boiled potatoes had a richer, deeper flavor without additional butter or seasoning.
- Texture: They were creamier and smoother, unlike the slightly grainier water-boiled version.
For many, this simple tweak turned mashed potatoes from a basic side dish into a showstopper worthy of any dinner table.
@kingmecomedy Reply to @katiebug918 ♬ original sound – Jeaux
Ways to elevate your mashed potatoes even further
Inspired by Parks’ tip, home cooks are now experimenting with other creative add-ins to make their mashed potatoes truly unforgettable:
- A splash of heavy cream or melted butter for extra richness.
- A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives for tang and freshness.
- A touch of nutmeg for a subtle, cozy warmth.
For those who love rustic mashed potatoes, keeping the skins on adds both texture and a visually appealing finish.
Parks credits her grandmother for teaching her this flavorful technique, proving that the simplest family tips can often make the biggest impact.
Ready to give it a try?
If you’re looking to elevate your mashed potatoes, swap plain water for stock the next time you make them. Whether you choose chicken, beef, or vegetable stock, this small adjustment can transform your dish into a bold, flavorful favorite.
Why settle for ordinary when your mashed potatoes can be extraordinary?
