2 pound russet or yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 3-inch chunks
2 tablespoon cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
1 1/4 -1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup garlic confit cloves, coarsely mashed with a fork*
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
Place 2 teaspoons of the salt and the potatoes in a large heavy-bottomed pot and fill with enough cold water to cover the potatoes by 2 inches. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, simmer vigorously, uncovered, until the potatoes are tender, for 12-14 minutes. Drain and let cool for a few minutes.
When the potatoes are cool enough to handle, pass them through a food mill or potato ricer. Add the butter and stir until it has melted.
When ready to serve, heat the milk in a small saucepan until boiling. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Place the potato purée in a large heavy-bottomed pot and heat over medium heat, stirring constantly. As the purée warms, whip the hot milk into it with a wire whisk ½ cup at a time, until the purée is smooth and has reached the desired consistency. Add the garlic confit and remaining salt. Season with pepper, to taste. Whip again until well incorporated. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve piping hot.