Definition of mashed potato

The term "mashed potato" refers to a dish made by boiling and then mashing potatoes until they reach a smooth and creamy consistency. The origins of the word can be traced back to the Old English word "potign," which means a cooking pot or a cauldron. In medieval times, potatoes were not a common food source in Europe as they were not yet introduced from the South American continent. It was not until the 16th century that potatoes became more widely known and consumed in European cuisine. Symon Write, a British cookbook author from the Tudor period, is often credited with popularizing the dish in the mid-16th century. In his book "A Proper New Booke of Cokerye," published in 1555, he included a recipe for "Mysshed Potetoes," which called for boiling potatoes in broth, mashing them with butter and seasoning, and serving them with meat. The term "mashed" likely comes from the act of mashing or pressing the cooked potatoes to remove excess moisture and achieve the desired texture. The word "potato" itself is derived from the Quechua word "papas," which means "earth" or "land," as potatoes were originally cultivated in the Andean mountains of South America. Overall, the term "mashed potatoes" has become a widely recognized and beloved dish in many cultures around the world, with variations in preparation and serving styles depending on the region.