Idahoan Perfect Mash Review

Reviewed by Jo Hardy

It’s such a long time since I’ve eaten instant mashed potatoes.  I remember having them when I was quite  young back in the early seventies. They were quite a new invention back then and quite a treat because I was allowed to make them myself and there was something almost magical about this power turning into mashed potato. Thinking back they did have a bit of an after taste and could be quite dry. I was very interested to see how this type of product had evolved over the years.

Idahoan perfect mash is very quick and easy to make. Just add the required amount of boiling water, stir and leave for one minute then fluff up with fork. It really is that simple and it turns into the most delicious mashed potato, very soft and creamy, no lumps, beautifully white.

There are six different varieties of Idahoan perfect mash available in 109g packets, which each make three servings: butter herb, buttery, bacon and cheese, cheddar cheese, classic and roasted garlic. These are ideal as a side dish to a main meal or could be used as a topping for fish / Shepherd’s pie. In fact I think you could use Idahoan perfect mash in any recipe that calls for mashed potatoes and there are three different varieties available in tubs: sausage and gravy, bubble and squeak and bacon and cheese. The tubs are designed for eating on the go and you just need to pour boiling water into the pot up to the marked fill level, stir, leave for one minute and fluff up. These would be ideal to take to work in your packed lunch to have with a pie, especially in the winter months when cold sandwiches are not so appealing.

Something that I really liked was that the flavours are very subtle and not at all over powering or artificial tasting. Everyone will find their favourite variety (editor’s note – this is the reviewer’s opinion) but mine is roasted garlic with just the right hint of garlic.

The packs have a long use by date so make an excellent store cupboard essential and would also be great to take on camping or caravanning trips. They don’t take up a lot of room and are very lightweight and just like I used to do after you’ve added the hot water I’m sure the children will love helping by making their own mashed potatoes. (editor’s note – please exercise caution with hot water)

The American state of Idaho is famous for it’s potatoes. The rich soil and clear waters make the ideal potato growing conditions and they are famous throughout the world for consistent high quality. The Idahoan company was formed in 1960 when a group of growers from Lewisville Idaho got together to start a potato dehydration plant. Each pack is certified to contain 100% Idaho potatoes from Idaho and bears the stamp of the Idaho potato commission.

Rating: 5/5

RRP and where to buy:

Some varieties of this product are available from Tesco , Sainsburys ,Morrison’s or Asda prices range from £1.00 to £1.60 or Amazon.co.uk also sell bundles of assorted varieties .