Pomme Purée (French Mashed Potatoes)

Wash, peel and cut the potatoes into large cubes.

Plunge them into a large pot of cold water seasoned with coarse salt. Bring to the boil and cook for 30 to 40 minutes, until tender.

Meanwhile, heat the milk, butter and thyme in a small saucepan over low heat. Once the butter has melted, remove from the heat and leave to infuse.

Drain the potatoes and mash them immediately, while still hot, with a potato masher.

Remove the thyme from the butter-milk mixture and stir into the potatoes. Mix until smooth.

Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg.