Unicorn Mashed Potatoes: Rainbow Colors Without Dyes?!

Pamela Huerto -

This idea was hatched after growing two unique types of potatoes this past summer.  Pink Amarosa & Russian Blues.  I am a bit of a sucker for trying out weird and wonderful varieties, but one of the great things about these is that those funky colors also mean that you are getting extra nutrients!

Anthocyanins are a disease-fighting antioxidant which tend to show up in foods with red, purple or blue pigments - like these potatoes.

Learn how we make these magical, rainbow colored mashed potatoes!  The colors are amazing without using any artificial coloring. A super fun activity for anyone who loves unicorn or galaxy themed items.

And get a bonus recipe for using those potato skins!

Resources:

Thistle Video (with puree)
Lee Valley Silicone Pastry Bag
Lee Valley Icing Tips

Recipe:

Potato Peel Snack

  • Potato Peelings
  • Cooking oil
  • Seasonings (Garlic Power, Paprika)
  • Salt & pepper

Add oil & seasonings to potato peelings.  Mix.

Bake for 20-30 minutes at 150C/300F, or until crispy.

Enjoy!

Rainbow Mashed Potatoes (One batch per color)

  • 1 lb potatoes, peeled & cubed
    (Pink Amarosa for pink, Blue Russians for Purple, Yellow Potatoes with for Green - Thistle Puree added)
  • 1/4 cup milk or milk alternative
  • 4 Tbsp butter or margarine
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 4 cubes thistle puree, frozen (optional)
  1. Place potato pieces into a large pot. Cover with cold water by at least an inch.
  2. Cover with lid, and bring to a boil over high heat.  
  3. Once boiling, reduce to simmer and cook until the potatoes can be easily crushed with a pair of tongs (about 15-20 minutes).
  4. Drain the potatoes.
  5. Add in milk or alternative, butter or margarine, salt and black pepper. Simmer until butter has melted.
  6. (Optional) For green batch, add frozen thistle purée cubes. If you don’t have thistle but have a different frozen green you can give it a try instead!
  7. Remove from the heat, and place a food mill on top with your finest insert. Mill 1 cup of potatoes into the pot at a time.
  8. When the potatoes are all milled, stir to combine.
  9. Serve as desired!  Go fancy with a piping bag like we tried, or artfully arrange your colored scoops on a plate.  Play with your food just a little! ;)