Mashed potatoes are pretty simple, really. Take as many potatoes as you want, peel them, and cube them into 1/2 inch pieces. Put them in simmering (slightly less than boiling) water for about 15 minutes, or until a fork slides right into them easily. Drain them, then mash. Add milk and butter to taste (about 1/2 a cup of milk and 2 tablespoons of butter for 5 potatoes), and continue to mash until of the desired consistency. Add a dash of salt and pepper, and if you’re feeling interesting, a dash of paprika. Go crazy and add half a block of grated cheese if you want, too.