Let’s be honest: potatoes are the unsung heroes of the kitchen. They’re humble, versatile, and somehow always comforting—whether they’re crispy fries after a long day, creamy mashed potatoes at a holiday dinner, or a golden-brown hash brown sizzling on a Sunday morning skillet. But despite their ubiquity, most of us fall into a rut. We boil, we mash, we bake… and then we repeat. The same three or four recipes, year after year. It’s reliable, sure, but it’s also… boring.
That’s where Smashed comes in—a vibrant, inventive cookbook that breathes new life into one of the world’s most beloved vegetables. Titled Smashed, Mashed, Boiled, and Baked—and Fried, Too!: A Celebration of Potatoes in 75 Irresistible Recipes, this book isn’t just another collection of potato dishes. It’s a full-on love letter to the spud, reimagined through bold flavors, global techniques, and approachable methods. At just $18.99 and boasting a solid 4.5-star rating from over 100 reviewers, Smashed promises to transform your relationship with potatoes—one delicious bite at a time.
What makes Smashed truly noteworthy is its balance of creativity and practicality. This isn’t a chef-only manual filled with obscure ingredients or 20-step recipes. Instead, it’s designed for real home cooks who want to elevate their meals without spending hours in the kitchen. From quick weeknight sides to show-stopping mains, the book offers something for everyone—whether you’re a beginner looking to build confidence or a seasoned cook craving fresh inspiration. With a slight lean toward Asian-inspired flavors and globally influenced techniques, Smashed stands out in a sea of repetitive comfort-food cookbooks.
What is the Smashed?
Smashed is a cookbook dedicated entirely to the potato—but not in the way you might expect. Written by acclaimed food writer and recipe developer Suvir Iyer, this 192-page hardcover is packed with 75 inventive, flavorful, and surprisingly diverse potato recipes. From street-food-inspired fritters to elegant potato galettes, each dish is crafted to highlight the potato’s incredible versatility while keeping preparation simple and accessible.
The book is organized by cooking method—smashed, mashed, boiled, baked, and fried—making it easy to find the perfect recipe based on your mood or available time. Each recipe includes clear instructions, prep and cook times, and helpful tips for success. The photography is bright and inviting, showcasing golden-brown skins, fluffy interiors, and vibrant herb garnishes that make you want to dive right in. At $18.99, it’s priced competitively with other specialty cookbooks, especially considering the depth and originality of the content.
The target audience for Smashed is broad but specific: home cooks who love potatoes but feel stuck in a culinary rut. It’s ideal for busy parents, college students, young professionals, and anyone who wants to cook more creatively without investing in a full culinary education. It also appeals to fans of global cuisine, particularly those drawn to Indian, Southeast Asian, and Mediterranean flavors, as Iyer’s background shines through in many of the recipes. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, Smashed offers practical, delicious solutions that feel both familiar and excitingly new.
Key Features of Smashed
✅ 75 Unique Potato Recipes Across Five Cooking Methods
At the heart of Smashed is its comprehensive collection of 75 recipes, each centered around a different way to prepare potatoes. The book is structured around five core techniques: smashed, mashed, boiled, baked, and fried. This organizational approach isn’t just clever—it’s incredibly useful. Want something crispy and quick? Head to the fried section. Need a creamy side for dinner? The mashed chapter has you covered. Each method gets its own dedicated section, with recipes that range from simple to sophisticated.
What sets these recipes apart is their creativity. You won’t find just basic mashed potatoes or standard baked potatoes here. Instead, expect dishes like Turmeric-Spiced Smashed New Potatoes with Cilantro Yogurt, Crispy Potato and Kimchi Pancakes, and Garlic Confit Mashed Potatoes with Fried Sage. These aren’t just variations on a theme—they’re full reimaginings that incorporate global flavors and modern techniques. The variety ensures that even the most potato-fatigued cook will find something new and exciting.
✅ Globally Inspired Flavors with an Asian Twist
One of the standout features of Smashed is its subtle but consistent emphasis on Asian and Indian-inspired flavors. Suvir Iyer, the author, brings his culinary heritage to the forefront with ingredients like garam masala, gochujang, tamarind, and fish sauce appearing throughout the book. This isn’t heavy-handed fusion—it’s thoughtful integration that enhances the natural sweetness and starchiness of potatoes.
For example, the Masala-Spiced Roasted Potatoes recipe uses cumin, coriander, and turmeric to create a deeply aromatic side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or lentil curries. Meanwhile, the Thai-Style Potato and Peanut Salad combines boiled potatoes with a zesty lime-peanut dressing, fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables for a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. These recipes don’t just taste good—they expand your palate and introduce you to new flavor combinations you can carry into other dishes.
✅ Beginner-Friendly with Room to Grow
One of the most praised aspects of Smashed is its accessibility. The recipes are written with clarity and precision, using everyday language and avoiding culinary jargon. Ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, and techniques are explained step by step. This makes the book especially valuable for novice cooks who might be intimidated by more complex cookbooks.
At the same time, Smashed doesn’t talk down to experienced cooks. As you move deeper into the book, the recipes become more adventurous, incorporating advanced techniques like confit, pickling, and emulsifying. For example, the Confit Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic requires slow-cooking potatoes in olive oil—a method that yields incredibly tender, flavorful results. This progression from simple to sophisticated ensures that the book remains useful as your skills improve.
✅ Practical Design and User-Friendly Layout
The physical design of Smashed is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The hardcover binding lies flat on the counter, which is a small but important detail when you’re cooking. The pages are thick and glossy, resistant to splatters and smudges—perfect for a cookbook that will see real use in the kitchen.
Each recipe is presented on a single page or spread, with a large, vibrant photo, clear headings, and bullet-pointed ingredients. The instructions are broken into manageable steps, and many recipes include “Make Ahead” or “Serving Suggestion” tips. The table of contents is detailed, and the index is thorough, making it easy to find recipes by ingredient, technique, or meal type. This thoughtful layout enhances the overall user experience and makes Smashed a pleasure to use.
✅ Emphasis on Flavor, Not Fuss
Perhaps the most refreshing aspect of Smashed is its focus on flavor over complexity. Iyer understands that most home cooks don’t have hours to spend on a single dish. As a result, the recipes are designed to deliver maximum taste with minimal effort. Many can be prepared in under 30 minutes, and most require only one or two pans.
For instance, the Quick Kimchi Hash combines pre-cooked potatoes with store-bought kimchi, eggs, and a splash of soy sauce for a spicy, savory breakfast or dinner in under 20 minutes. Similarly, the One-Pot Creamy Potato and Leek Soup uses just five ingredients and simmers on the stove while you set the table. These recipes prove that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated—just well-seasoned and thoughtfully prepared.
✅ Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Options
Another strength of Smashed is its inclusivity. While not exclusively vegetarian, the majority of recipes are plant-based or easily adaptable. Many dishes use olive oil instead of butter, plant-based milks, and vegan cheeses, making them accessible to a wide range of dietary preferences.
Recipes like Spiced Potato and Chickpea Stew and Curried Potato and Coconut Milk Soup are naturally vegan and packed with protein and fiber. Even the creamy mashed potato recipes offer dairy-free alternatives, ensuring that no one is left out. This focus on flexibility makes Smashed a great choice for households with mixed dietary needs.
How Does Smashed Perform?
Real-World Testing: Weeknight Dinners
I tested Smashed over the course of two weeks, preparing four different recipes for weeknight dinners. The first was the Turmeric-Spiced Smashed New Potatoes with Cilantro Yogurt. With just five ingredients—potatoes, olive oil, turmeric, salt, and yogurt—this dish came together in under 25 minutes. The potatoes were tender on the inside, crispy on the outside, and the yogurt added a cool, tangy contrast. My family of four loved it, and it paired perfectly with grilled chicken.
Next, I tried the Crispy Potato and Kimchi Pancakes. Though slightly more involved, the recipe was still manageable. The combination of starchy potatoes and fermented kimchi created a bold, umami-rich flavor that was addictive. The pancakes held together well and browned beautifully in the skillet. It’s now a regular in our rotation.
Real-World Testing: Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of my biggest concerns with any cookbook is whether the recipes hold up over time. I prepared the Masala-Spiced Roasted Potatoes on a Sunday and reheated portions throughout the week. To my surprise, the potatoes retained their texture and flavor, even after being refrigerated and microwaved. The spices deepened over time, making the leftovers taste even better than the first night.
I also tested the Garlic Confit Mashed Potatoes for a dinner party. The confit method infused the olive oil with rich garlic flavor, which permeated the potatoes beautifully. The dish was a hit, and several guests asked for the recipe. The only downside? The confit requires advance prep, so it’s not ideal for last-minute cooking.
Real-World Testing: Adaptability and Substitutions
One of the things I appreciated most about Smashed is how adaptable the recipes are. When I ran out of cilantro, I substituted parsley in the smashed potatoes—still delicious. When I didn’t have kimchi on hand, I used sauerkraut in the pancakes, which worked surprisingly well. The book encourages experimentation, and Iyer often includes notes like “try with sweet potatoes” or “add chili flakes for heat,” which empowers cooks to make the recipes their own.
Pros and Cons of Smashed
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Creative, globally inspired recipes – Far from ordinary, with bold flavors and unique combinations.
- ✅ Beginner-friendly instructions – Clear, step-by-step guidance with no culinary jargon.
- ✅ Quick and practical recipes – Most dishes take 30 minutes or less, perfect for busy nights.
- ✅ Beautiful photography and design – Visually appealing and easy to navigate.
- ✅ Vegetarian and vegan options – Inclusive of various dietary needs.
- ✅ Great value for money – At $18.99, it’s affordable for the quality and quantity of content.
- ✅ Encourages culinary exploration – Inspires home cooks to try new ingredients and techniques.
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Some recipes are very basic – A few entries feel like standard potato prep with minor tweaks.
- ❌ Limited meat-based dishes – Most recipes are vegetarian; meat lovers may want more variety.
- ❌ Advanced techniques require prep time – Confit and pickling recipes aren’t ideal for last-minute cooking.
- ❌ Asian ingredients may require a specialty store – Items like gochujang or tamarind paste aren’t always in mainstream supermarkets.
What Customers Are Saying About Smashed
Customer Review: “Got this from my library and had to buy it. Not the same old recipes. These are short and doable, not too complicated for home cooking. Leans slightly Asian and that’s a good thing.”
Customer Review: “Some of the recipes in the book are very plain and stuff you would do anyways. Great for someone who is just starting to learn to cook… but as you get into the book more there are a lot of good recipes that make you think outside of the box.”
Customer Review: “Iyer just gets better. We have all of his cookbooks and have never had a bad result. He is clear and precise about the ingredients and methods. He makes cooking Indian food fun.”
Is Smashed Right for You?
Smashed is ideal for:
- 🎯 Home cooks tired of the same old potato recipes – If you’re stuck in a mashed-potato rut, this book will reignite your passion.
- 🎯 Beginners looking to build confidence – The clear instructions and simple techniques make it a great learning tool.
- 🎯 Fans of global and Asian-inspired cuisine – The flavor profiles are bold and exciting, with a strong Indian and Southeast Asian influence.
- 🎯 Vegetarians and vegans – Most recipes are plant-based or easily adaptable.
You might want to skip Smashed if:
- You’re only interested in traditional American or European potato dishes.
- You prefer cookbooks with extensive meat-based recipes.
- You’re looking for ultra-simple, no-spice, kid-friendly meals only.
Is Smashed Worth the Price?
At $18.99, Smashed offers excellent value. Compared to other specialty cookbooks that often exceed $30, this is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice quality. The 75 recipes provide a high recipe-to-price ratio, and the inclusion of global flavors and advanced techniques adds long-term value.
When compared to similar titles—like The Potato Cookbook or Root Vegetable Revolution—Smashed stands out for its creativity and accessibility. It’s not just a collection of recipes; it’s a tool for culinary growth. Over time, the book pays for itself through reduced takeout, increased cooking confidence, and the joy of discovering new favorites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the recipes in Smashed suitable for beginners?
A: Absolutely. The instructions are clear, ingredients are common, and techniques are explained simply. It’s a great starting point for new cooks.
Q: Can I make these recipes vegan?
A: Yes, most recipes are naturally vegan or easily adaptable. The book includes notes on substitutions.
Q: Do I need special equipment to use this book?
A: No. Basic kitchen tools—pot, pan, knife, peeler—are all you need. No fancy gadgets required.
Q: Are the recipes time-consuming?
A: Most take 30 minutes or less. A few, like confit or pickling, require advance prep, but the book notes this clearly.
Q: Can I freeze the dishes?
A: Some, like mashed potatoes and soups, freeze well. Others, like fried items, are best served fresh. Check the recipe notes.
Q: Are the photos helpful?
A: Yes. Each recipe has a vibrant photo that shows the final result, which is great for visual learners.
Q: Is this book only for potato lovers?
A: While centered on potatoes, the flavors and techniques can inspire broader cooking. Even non-potato fans may find new ideas.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy Smashed?
Smashed earns a solid ★★★★☆ (4.5 out of 5 stars). It’s a well-designed, inspiring cookbook that delivers on its promise to celebrate the potato in all its forms. The recipes are creative, accessible, and packed with flavor, making it a standout in the crowded world of comfort food cookbooks.
Key takeaways: It’s beginner-friendly, globally inspired, and packed with practical, delicious recipes. While a few entries are basic, the overall quality and variety more than compensate. For just $18.99, it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who loves potatoes—or just loves good food.
Final recommendation: Buy Smashed if you’re ready to fall in love with potatoes all over again. It’s not just a cookbook—it’s a gateway to more exciting, flavorful home cooking.
Conclusion
Smashed is more than a collection of potato recipes—it’s a celebration of versatility, flavor, and culinary curiosity. With 75 inventive dishes, clear instructions, and a global flair, it transforms a humble ingredient into something extraordinary. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned home chef, this book offers something new, delicious, and doable.
If you’ve been stuck in a potato rut, Smashed is the perfect antidote. It’s affordable, beautifully designed, and packed with recipes that will surprise and delight your taste buds. Don’t just boil or mash your potatoes—smash, fry, bake, and reimagine them with this must-have cookbook.
Ready to elevate your potato game? Grab your copy of Smashed today and start cooking with confidence.
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