Japanese potato salad: You'll love this creamy recipe with umami dressing
Experience potato salad in a whole new way – this Japanese recipe brings a breath of fresh air to your table with vegetables and an aromatic dressing.
Potato salad is not only a true classic in Germany, but also delights in Japan with its own unique interpretation. The so-called "Poteto Sarada" is prepared with mashed potatoes, crisp vegetables, and a creamy mayonnaise dressing. In this version, the dish can be enjoyed vegetarian or even vegan and impresses with its special umami flavor.
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Japanese potato salad: A classic reinterpreted
While potato salad in Germany is often served with broth, vinegar, and oil, Japanese cooks favor a recipe that features mashed potatoes and a creamy mayonnaise dressing. Fresh vegetables like cucumber, carrot, and corn add color and vibrancy to the dish. The salad can be adapted to be vegetarian or vegan, but the foundation remains the smooth, creamy consistency achieved with floury potatoes. Traditionally, the Japanese version is prepared with ham and egg; this recipe offers a meatless alternative with a vegan option.
Vegan version of the recipe
For a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with tofu. Simply mix 50 grams of tofu with a pinch of kala namak and roughly crumble it. Also, use vegan mayonnaise and make sure that the vegetarian ham is suitable for vegans.
Interesting facts about taste and ingredients
In Japan, this potato salad is often served as a snack with drinks in izakayas, small bars and pubs. It also pairs wonderfully with other Japanese or Asian dishes such as rice crackers (senbei), Japanese cucumber salad (sunomono), or kimchi. A key ingredient is Japanese mayonnaise, which, thanks to its special spices, provides the characteristic umami flavor. If you can't find Japanese mayonnaise, you can use the umami seasoning from the recipe or, as a substitute, sriracha mayo.
Tip: When choosing ingredients, opt for organic products whenever possible, recognizable by the Demeter, Bioland, or Naturland seals. An organic label is particularly recommended for eggs and other animal products to support more humane animal husbandry.
