Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Step 1

Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Put them in a large saucepan, add 2 tablespoons salt, and cover potatoes with water by 1 inch.

Step 2

Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce to medium and let cook until piercing with a fork yields no resistance, about 15 minutes.

Step 3

While the potatoes cook, put the olive oil and shallots in a large skillet, and set up a paper towel-lined plate next to the stove. Heat the shallots over medium-high. When they start to bubble, reduce the heat to medium and cook until golden brown, 5 to 9 minutes. (Lower the heat if they are cooking too quickly). Use a slotted spoon to transfer to the paper towels, and season with salt. Reserve the oil.

Step 4

Reserve 1 cup of the cooking water, then drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes over low heat using a potato masher or wooden spoon until completely mashed. Add the reserved potato water 1 tablespoon at a time, vigorously stirring until the potatoes are smooth and come together. (You will use about 1/2 cup.) Taste, season with salt, then stir in 1/4 cup of the reserved oil. Serve topped with crispy shallots, black pepper and more of the oil, if desired.