Place potatoes in pot with enough water to cover. Boil potatoes in skin for up to one hour. Potatoes are done when knife slides easily all the way through.

Slice potatoes in half, place cut side down in ricer, press through to mixing bowl. Skin will be left behind in ricer - remove. Repeat for remaining.

Melt butter in microwave, add milk or half and half. Heat until hot but not boiling.

Add to potatoes with salt, pepper and garlic ( if using ). Adjust to taste.

Whip until thoroughly mixed. Add more milk if too thick.