4 to 5 medium Burbank russet (Idaho) or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled, and sliced 1/3-inch-thick
3 medium shallots, crushed, plus5 shallots, finely minced
2 cloves garlic, crushed, 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 teaspoons and 2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon cider vinegar
3 tablespoons butter
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1 cup heavy or whipping cream
1/2 to 1 cup half-and-half or milk