The combination of fluffy potatoes and butter in Jaga Butter offers a deliciously addictive flavor. It is a popular dish in Japan, but it does not require any uniquely Japanese ingredients, so feel free to make it yourself.
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What is Jaga Butter?
Jaga Butter is a dish of steamed or boiled potatoes topped with butter. "Jaga" is short for 'Jagaimo,' which means potatoes. Originally, it was a local dish from Hokkaido, the northernmost region of Japan, but now it is enjoyed throughout Japan due to its delicious flavor and easy preparation. The soft and fluffy texture of the potatoes pairs well with the butter.
In Japan, it gained attention when it was served to former U.S. President Donald Trump in 2019. Though simple in taste, once you try it, you will find its deliciousness that will make you want to have it again next time.
What type of potatoes are suitable?
There are many different types of potatoes, but when making jaga butter, it is best to use starchy potatoes that result in a soft and fluffy texture when cooked. For instance, in Japan, "Danshaku potatoes (男爵イモ)" are recognized as a suitable choice, while in the United States, "Russet potatoes" are a good option. Consider using starchy potatoes that are readily available in your local area.
Multiple cooking methods
Jaga Butter can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as steaming in a microwave or a steamer, or boiling in a pot. Among these methods, using a microwave or a steamer is highly recommended.
When cooking in a microwave, wrap each potato individually in a damp paper towel, and then in plastic wrap before heating. This method allows you to easily steam the potatoes, making it possible to prepare jaga butter quickly. This is the most common method known for making it in Japan.
On the other hand, if you choose to use a steamer, you can enjoy this dish with a more authentic flavor. Steaming slowly over time gives the potatoes a fluffy texture compared to other cooking methods, and it brings out their sweetness to the fullest.
The recipe includes instructions for both microwave and steamer cooking methods, so feel free to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Ingredients
- 2 medium or small potatoes (such as Russet, a starchy variety, are recommended)
- 0.7 oz. (20g) salted butter
- pinch of salt (optional)
Step-by-step instructions
🕒 Total 6-9 mins (when using the microwave) or 22-42 mins (when using a steamer)
You can cook the potatoes in a microwave or in a steamer. For more details, please refer to the information provided above.
Step 1
Wash the potatoes and remove their sprouts.
Step 2 (when using a microwave for easy preparation)
Wrap each potato individually in a damp paper towel, then in plastic wrap, and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave one potato at 1000W for 2-4 minutes, or two potatoes for 3-6 minutes (depending on the size of the potatoes).
Step 2 (when using a steamer for a more authentic flavor)
Steam the potatoes in a steamer for 20-40 minutes (depending on the size of the potatoes), starting with room temperature water.
Step 3
Insert a skewer into the potatoes, and if they are still hard inside, continue heating them for a little longer. If the skewer easily goes through, they are ready to be served.
Step 4
Take the potatoes out of the microwave or steamer. (If microwaved, remove the paper towel and plastic wrap.) Cut them into quarters and serve them in bowls, topping each one with butter. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over them to taste as desired.
To Store
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Tips on how to make
- When steaming potatoes in a steamer, start with room temperature water. If boiling water is used from the beginning, the outer parts of the potatoes may easily fall apart before the center is cooked.
Recipe Card
Jaga Butter (Soft and Fluffy Potatoes with Butter)
Ingredients
- 2 medium or small potatoes (such as Russet, a starchy variety, are recommended)
- 0.7 oz. (20g) salted butter
- pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the potatoes and remove their sprouts.
- (When using a microwave for easy preparation) Wrap each potato individually in a damp paper towel, then in plastic wrap, and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave one potato at 1000W for 2-4 minutes, or two potatoes for 3-6 minutes (depending on the size of the potatoes).
- (When using a steamer for a more authentic flavor) Steam the potatoes in a steamer for 20-40 minutes (depending on the size of the potatoes), starting with room temperature water.
- Insert a skewer into the potatoes, and if they are still hard inside, continue heating them for a little longer. If the skewer easily goes through, they are ready to be served.
- Take the potatoes out of the microwave or steamer. (If microwaved, remove the paper towel and plastic wrap.) Cut them into quarters and serve them in bowls, topping each one with butter. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over them to taste as desired.
Notes
- You can cook the potatoes in a microwave or in a steamer. For more details, please refer to the information provided above.
- When using a steamer, the total cooking time is 22-42 minutes.
- You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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