A: The House of Representatives is expected to try to approve the health care bill that the Senate approved on Dec. 24. If that happens, then a second bill would be offered. That bill would be the reconciliation piece; it would reconcile changes that the House wants with the Senate's original version.
Add salt to the water, if desired. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium low. Cover the pot and simmer until potatoes are tenderâabout 15 to 20 minutes. A knife tip inserted into a potato should meet no resistance; if the potato clings to the knife, the potatoes need to cook longer. When potatoes are done, remove from heat and drain immediately.
While russet (brown) potatoes are more commonly used for mashed potatoes, red potatoes can make excellent mashed potatoes, too. For mashed potatoes, remove all or most of the peel before boiling the red potatoes. Boil the potatoes for 5 to 10 minutes longer, until they begin to break apart when pierced with a fork. Add 2 to 4 Tbsp (30 to 60 ml) of butter and 1/2 cup (125 ml) of milk to the potatoes after draining them. Mash with a potato masher or electric mixer until the potatoes reach their desired texture.