Easy Japanese Potato Salad Recipe: A Unique Take on a Classic Dish

What is Potato Salad?

Potato salad is a popular dish in Japanese home cooking, often featured in bento boxes and family meals. Japanese potato salad differs slightly from its Western counterpart. It typically consists of soft, mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables like cucumber, carrot, and onion, and is dressed with mayonnaise. The light and refreshing flavor, combined with the creamy texture, makes it a favorite among many people.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

To make potato salad for four people, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Potatoes: 4 medium-sized (about 500g)
- Choose medium-sized potatoes for a fluffy texture.
Carrot: 1
- Add color and enhance the nutritional value.
Cucumber: 1
- Thinly slice the cucumber, then lightly salt it to remove excess moisture. The crunchy texture will add a nice contrast.
Onion: 1/2
- Slice thinly and soak in water to reduce the sharpness. The sweetness of the onion enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
Ham: 4 slices
- Cut into thin strips to add savory flavor. You can substitute bacon for extra richness.
Mayonnaise: 5-6 tablespoons
- Japanese mayonnaise is known for its slightly sweet and tangy flavor. Adjust the amount to your liking.
Vinegar: 1 teaspoon
- Adding vinegar gives the salad a refreshing tang.
Salt and pepper: To taste
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your preference.

Preparation Steps

Boil the Potatoes and Carrots
- Peel the potatoes and carrots, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a pot with plenty of water and boil until tender. Drain the water, transfer the potatoes and carrots to a bowl, and mash them while they are still hot. For a more textured salad, mash them roughly.
Prepare the Vegetables
- Thinly slice the cucumber and sprinkle with salt to remove excess water. Thinly slice the onion and soak it in water to reduce the sharpness, then drain. Combine the prepared vegetables in a bowl.
Prepare the Ham
- Slice the ham into thin strips and add it to the bowl with the potatoes. If using bacon, fry it until crispy before adding it for extra flavor.
Add the Seasonings
- While the potatoes are still warm, add the vinegar and mix well. Then, gently mix in the mayonnaise until everything is evenly combined. Season with salt and pepper, and adjust the amount of mayonnaise as needed.
Finishing and Serving
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for a while before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. For a more decorative touch, garnish with boiled eggs or parsley.

Tips

Japanese potato salad can be easily customized according to your taste. You can add ingredients like corn or apple for extra sweetness and texture, creating a unique flavor profile. Adjusting the consistency of the mashed potatoes and the amount of mayonnaise allows you to tailor the salad to your preference.

Potato salad is not only a beloved home-cooked dish but also a popular choice for entertaining guests or packing in bento boxes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy authentic Japanese potato salad in your own home.

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