Mashed

Mashed is a culinary term describing foods that have been cooked and then crushed, blended, or beaten to a paste or creamy texture. Although most commonly associated with mashed potatoes, the method is widely used for a variety of ingredients, including other root vegetables (cauliflower, carrot, parsnip), fruits (banana, ripe avocado), legumes, and some cooked grains. Historically, mashed preparations appear in many cuisines, with mashed potatoes becoming a staple in Europe and North America after their introduction and diffusion in the 18th century. The resulting texture can range from smooth to chunky, depending on the tool used and the degree of crushing.

Preparation generally involves cooking the ingredient until tender, then mashing with a tool such as a potato masher, fork, ricer, or immersion blender. Potatoes are often enriched with dairy or fats (butter, milk, cream, cheese) and seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic). Proper technique aims for a light, fluffy texture; overworking starchy potatoes can release excess starch and make the mash gluey.

Variations and regional dishes include garlic mashed potatoes, mashed cauliflower as a low-carbohydrate alternative, and mashed sweet potatoes or plantains. Some recipes incorporate herbs, sour cream, or yogurt for flavor and texture. In non-potato uses, mashed bananas or avocados appear in baking or spreads, and mashed beans are used in certain dishes.

In informal usage, mashed is also British slang for being intoxicated. As a verb, to mash can mean to crush or press something into a pulp, a meaning that extends beyond food.