Herb Infused Mashed Potatoes

Name: Herb Infused Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lb russet potatoes (cut into chunks); 1 ¼ cups heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic (smashed); 1 shallot (cut into chunks); 3 sprigs thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1 tsp coriander seeds; 1 tsp fennel seeds; 5 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tsp chives (minced, optional)