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Creamy Japanese Potato Salad with colorful veggies, ham, and a dollop of Kewpie mayo.

Japanese Potato Salad: Creamy, Colorful, and Perfect for Any Occasion

A classic Japanese side dish, this Japanese Potato Salad is a creamy, flavorful blend of mashed potatoes, fresh vegetables, and Kewpie mayo. Perfect for bento boxes, potlucks, or as a side dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with texture and flavor.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 6
Calories 198 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Russet Potatoes: Starchy and perfect for mashing.
  • Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
  • Cucumber: For that refreshing crunch.
  • Corn: Sweet and summery—use canned or frozen.
  • Hard-Boiled Egg: Because eggs and potatoes are a match made in heaven.
  • Ham: Optional but it adds a savory punch.
  • Kewpie Mayo: The star of the show. Don’t skip this!
  • Rice Vinegar: For a subtle tang.
  • Salt & Pepper: To season it just right.

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Potatoes: Peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks. Boil them until tender, then mash lightly—leave some chunks for texture.
    Homemade Japanese Potato Salad served in a bowl, garnished with parsley and hard-boiled egg.
  • Prep the Veggies: While the potatoes cook, slice the cucumber thinly and sprinkle with salt to draw out excess moisture.
    Step-by-step preparation of Japanese Potato Salad, mixing potatoes with Kewpie mayo and veggies
  • Boil the carrots and corn until just tender.
    Close-up of Japanese Potato Salad showcasing mashed potatoes, carrots, cucumber, and corn.
  • Mix It Up: Once the potatoes are cool, toss them with the veggies, chopped egg, and ham. Add rice vinegar and a generous dollop of Kewpie mayo. Mix until everything is creamy and well-combined.
    Homemade Japanese Potato Salad served in a bowl, garnished with parsley and hard-boiled egg.
  • Chill and Serve: Pop the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
    A family-style spread featuring Japanese Potato Salad, Hambagu (Japanese hamburger steak), and steamed veggies.

Notes

  • Key Ingredient: Kewpie mayo is essential for authentic flavor. Use the imported Japanese version for best results.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with Karaage (Japanese fried chicken) or Hambagu (Japanese hamburger steak).
Keyword creamy potato salad, Japanese Potato Salad, potato salad recipe