Mashed Potatoes With a Little Zing

Years ago I borrowed my brother's copy of The Northern Exposure Cookbook (which, unfortunately, is only available used starting around $30). There were two recipes I adopted from the book. One is below.

Lightfeather Duncan's Mashed Potatoes

12 medium-sized red potatoes
2 Tbsp. olive oil
1 large yellow onion
1/4 cup butter
1 cup sour cream
2 Tbsp. prepared horseradish
1 Tbsp. coarse-ground black pepper
2 tsp. salt
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 325F. Wash and quarter potatoes (don't peel). Place in a large pot and cover with water. Boil until tender (about 15 minutes).

While potatoes are cooking, heat oil in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Coarsely chop onion and sauté until translucent.

Drain potatoes and place in a large mixing bowl. Add onion, butter, sour cream, horseradish, pepper, and salt. Using a hand-held mixer, whip potatoes until fairly smooth. (A hand-held masher works fine but won't be as smooth). Stir in cheese.

Transfer mixture to an ungreased casserole dish. Cover and bake for about 20 minutes or until thoroughly heated.

Makes 6-8 servings