Daigaku Imo
Daigaku Imo, or "university potatoes," is a classic Japanese snack featuring crispy, golden sweet potatoes coated in a glossy, caramel-like syrup and sprinkled with black sesame seeds. This simple yet satisfying treat highlights the natural sweetness and creamy texture of Japanese sweet potatoes.
A nostalgic favorite, Daigaku Imo is often associated with student life in Japan, offering both comfort and indulgence. Perfect as a snack or dessert, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the rich, sweet flavors of this beloved ingredient.
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Ingredients
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Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potato:
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Cut the sweet potato into french fry bite-sized pieces. You can choose to peel the sweet potato or leave the skin on, depending on your preference.
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Soak the sweet potato pieces in water for a few minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry thoroughly with a paper towel.
Fry the Sweet Potatoes:
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In a small frying pan, heat enough oil over medium heat to cover the sweet potato pieces.
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Slowly fry the sweet potato pieces until they are golden brown and tender. You can test their doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should go through easily.
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Once cooked, remove the sweet potatoes from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
Make the Syrup:
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In a small pot, combine the sugar, soy sauce, and mirin. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a syrup. Be careful not to let it burn.
Coat the Sweet Potatoes:
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Add the fried sweet potatoes to the pot with the syrup. Gently toss them until they are evenly coated with the syrup.
Serve:
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Transfer the candied sweet potatoes to a serving plate and sprinkle with black sesame seeds.
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Serve warm and enjoy this sweet and savory Japanese treat.
Maricel's Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, try lightly roasting the black sesame seeds before sprinkling them over the sweet potatoes. This brings out their nutty aroma and adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the dish.
- If you prefer a slightly less sweet version, you can reduce the sugar in the syrup and let the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes shine through. This way, you can enjoy the true flavor of the sweet potato with just a hint of sweetness from the glaze.
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