Vegan Low-FODMAP Chive-and-Cheddarish Instant Mashed Potatoes

Mashed taters are comfort food at its best. They are delicious, satisfying, and soothe the digestive tract. But when you're not feeling well or just want something tasty and filling in a hurry, you may not have the time, energy, or motivation to peel and boil and mash from scratch.

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That's where these scrumptious instant mashies rise to the occasion. Not only do they take mere minutes and no effort whatsoever to prepare, they also are equally well suited for a stay-at-home and eat-them-in-your-jammies meal or to serve to company for holidays or family gatherings (just double, triple, or quadruple the ingredients depending on the number of guests you have).

What's even better (if that's even possible) is that they are vegan, low in FODMAPs, and can be seasoned just the way you want them. If you don't like or don't have any of the seasonings on hand, just omit them or replace them with ones you prefer or have in your pantry. The amounts listed are merely general suggestions, so add more or less of any ingredient as your taste or intuition guides you. Various brands of instant mashed potatoes may require more or less water, so you might want to follow the instructions on the box for that brand's ratio of potato flakes to water. Dish out, dig in, and enjoy!

Chive-and-Cheddarish Instant Mashed Potatoes
Makes 1 main-dish serving or 2 side-dish servings

​INGREDIENTS 

• 3/4 cup water
• 1-1/2 tsp vegan butter
• 1/2 cup instant mashed potato flakes
• 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast flakes
• 1 tsp dried chives, or 2 tsp minced fresh chives
• 1/2 tsp garlic-infused olive oil
• 1/2 tsp prepared yellow mustard
• Heaping 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 tsp coarsely ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/4 tsp tamari
• Pinch smoked paprika (optional)

​DIRECTIONS

1. Put the water and butter in a small saucepan (preferably nonstick) and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat until the butter melts.
2. Remove from the heat and stir in the potato flakes, nutritional yeast, chives, oil, mustard, salt, pepper, paprika, turmeric, tamari, and optional smoked paprika until well combined.
3. Add more salt, nutritional yeast, or other seasonings to suit your taste. If the potatoes are too thick, thin with a little additional water. If they are too thin, stir in a little more potato flakes.
4. Keep warm over low heat until ready to serve. Serve hot.

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