Pour cold beer and water over potatoes, bay leaf, and garlic in a medium sized saucepot. Make sure the water level covers the potatoes by about an inch.

Boil until potatoes are easily pierced with a paring knife.

Drain potatoes and return to pot. Crank to high heat. Shake pot for 20 seconds. Turn off heat.

Melt butter in a small saucepan. Pour over potatoes. Fold gently with a stirring spoon.

Sprinkle cheese, salt, and pepper. Fold in gently. Serve.

Variations; Cider, vodka, gin, herbes de provence, cheddar, gruyere, parmesean, romano, heavy cream, sour cream, crushed pepper flakes, parsely, chives, chicken stock, cilantro, lime, lemon, horseradish, scallions, peppercorn melange, coriander, bacon, mint, chiles, asparagus, asiago, fontina, broccoli, basil, oregano, capers, celery seed, cabbage, caraway, carrots, cardamom, orange, bell pepper, swiss, corn, cumin, kale, leeks, spinach, dijon, peas, sage, shallots, butternut squash

Cont'd: thyme, sweet potatoes, turnip, rutabaga