Basics for new cooks: Boiling Potatoes: Scrub or peel potatoes; place in large pot. Cover with cold water, add salt [about 1 tb for 16 cups of water.] and bay leaf. Bring to boil. Cover and boil for about 20 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain, remove bay leaf and return potatoes to pot over low heat for 30 seconds to evaporate excess moisture. Mashed Potatoes: In pot, mash together potatoes, buttermilk, butter, salt and pepper until smooth. Source: Canadian Living magazine, Apr 95 Presented in article by Elizabeth Baird: "Only The Best" Recipe by Canadian Living Test Kitchen [-=PAM=-] PA_Meadows@msn.com