Creamy, comforting, and full of simple homemade flavor, Japanese potato salad is one of the most popular side dishes in Japan. It is often enjoyed as part of everyday family meals, packed into bento lunch boxes, or served at casual Japanese izakaya restaurants.
Unlike many Western-style potato salads, Japanese potato salad has a soft and fluffy texture made from lightly mashed potatoes and rich Japanese mayonnaise. Fresh cucumber, carrot, and ham add a delicious balance of crunch and flavor.
Made with simple ingredients that are easy to find, this recipe is a wonderful introduction to Japanese home cooking and pairs beautifully with a cozy Japanese-style table setting.
- 4 potatoes
- 1/2 cucumber
- 1/3 carrot
- 2 slices ham
- 5 tbsp Japanese mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Boil the Potatoes
Peel and cut the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot and add enough water to just cover them.
Bring to a boil and cook until soft. Once the potatoes are tender and most of the water has evaporated, remove from the heat and mash them.
Let them cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
Thinly slice the cucumber and carrot using a slicer.
Sprinkle lightly with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes.
Squeeze out the excess water well.
3. Mix the Salad
Cut the ham into small pieces.
Add the cucumber, carrot, ham, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes, and mix well.
4. Chill and Serve
Chill well before serving. Serve in your favorite bowl or small dish and enjoy!
This potato salad was made in a simple and classic style. In Japan, it is also common to add ingredients such as boiled eggs or onions. Feel free to add your favorite ingredients and enjoy making your own version!