I wouldn't have dreamed of using instant mash as I well remember when it was first introduced & it was really nasty. However, with hubby working most evenings & both my daughters away from home, I found myself splashing out 29p for a box of Mr Mash the other day as I needed some comfort food.

I found it in QualitySave & it says on the box that it contains 5 servings but I would say rather that it would be enough for 2 -3 which is a couple of tablespoons each.

There's nothing like home-made mash but it can be time-consuming & then there's the inconvenience of washing up so, as I was cooking just for me I decided this was a great price as it states it contains 99% real potato.

It also tells me the following -
- suitable for vegetarians & gluten free
- no artificial colours/ flavourings
- no added salt
- low in fat

Plus all the ingredients are listed as well as cooking guidelines using just boiling water or using the microwave. It can be reconstituted in a matter of minutes so would could be made almost last-minute before serving up a meal.

The tiny flakes don't look too appetising - rather yellow & finer than I'd remembered - but once water, a little milk, a dash of salt & (for me) a small knob of Lurpak & a generous amount of black pepper, I have to say it was rather nice.

The colour paled from yellow to white & looked much more appealing. I found it to be quite smooth & creamy & there weren't any lumps.
I'm not sure I'd have enjoyed it as much if I'd had something without a sauce though as it may taste a little dry, but it went down well with some lamb casserole + veg.

When I use the rest of the packet I'll make sure I stir it more because I found bits of dry mash at the bottom of my bowl but I can't blame Mr Mash for this as I was in a hurry!

There's a nice recipe on the back of the box for Megasaurus Mouse & the preparation guidelines are given both in writing & pictures so I'm sure children would like making up this instant mashed potato (with supervision) as it doesn't take too long to prepare.

summary
- nowhere near as nice as home-made mash but a heckofalot quicker to make.
- great price considering the price of potatoes.
- nice taste & texture.
- great to have in stock.