Japanese Yam with Yuzu Kosho
Crunchy Japanese yam tossed with fragrant yuzu kosho and savory seasonings. Light, refreshing, and packed with umami, this simple side dish comes together in minutes and pairs perfectly with sake.
The crisp texture of Japanese yam and the bright, citrusy kick of yuzu kosho make this simple dish surprisingly addictive. Light yet packed with flavor, it highlights the natural sweetness of the yam while adding a refreshing touch of heat and umami.
Ready in just minutes, this easy Japanese side dish is perfect for busy days,
gatherings, or a relaxing night with a glass of sake. Its fresh flavors pair beautifully with grilled fish, yakitori, or any Japanese-inspired meal.
What you'll need
- Japanese yam (nagaimo) — 200g
- Green onion (naganegi) — 1/3 stalk
- Seasoned seaweed (ajitsuke nori) — 5 sheets
- Chopped green onion — a pinch
- White sesame seeds — to taste
- Mirin — 1 tbsp
- Soy sauce — 1 tbsp
- Yuzu kosho — 1 tsp
- Chicken bouillon powder — 1/2 tsp
How to make it
Finely chop 1/3 stalk of green onion. Peel 200g of Japanese yam and cut it into thin sticks.
In a bowl, combine the Japanese yam and chopped green onion. Add 1 tbsp mirin, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp yuzu kosho, white sesame seeds to taste, and 1/2 tsp chicken bouillon powder. Mix well until the yam becomes slightly sticky.
Tear 5 sheets of seasoned seaweed into small pieces and add them to the bowl. Continue mixing until everything is evenly combined and the mixture becomes more cohesive. Finish by adding a pinch of chopped green onion and gently tossing. Serve and enjoy!
Tips
- Mixing the Japanese yam thoroughly with the seasonings helps release its natural stickiness, allowing the flavors to coat every bite.
- Adjust the amount of yuzu kosho to your taste. Adding a little extra gives the dish a bolder, more sake-friendly flavor.
- Don't be shy with the seasoned seaweed—it adds a rich umami depth that makes this dish even more addictive.
- For a slightly sweeter flavor, you can substitute the soy sauce with mentsuyu (Japanese noodle soup base).