Potato ricer

From ArticleWorld

A potato ricer gets its name from the shape and size of the potato grains it produces. Essentially, a potato ricer consists of a lower cup riddled with holes the size of rice grains at the bottom, and a heavier part which fits into the cup and works by extruding the contents inside. A cooked potato that is put through a ricer, has the appearance of a pile of fluffy tiny rice grains or acini de pepe. A potato ricer is often described as a giant garlic press.

Potato ricers are considered the best way of making mashed potatoes, because rather than being mashed into a solid, pasty lump, the potatoes are fluffed into small grains, a size which allows the water-swollen starch cells to remain intact. This creates a rich, soft, and smooth mouthfeel when combined with warm cream or milk and butter.