Daigaku Sweet Potato

Ingredients:

• 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
• Vegetable oil for deep frying
• For the Candy Glaze:
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
  • 1 tablespoon water
• Optional Toppings:
  • Sesame seeds (white or black)
  • Kinako (roasted soybean flour)
  • Chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)

Calories (approximate): (Note: Caloric values may vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used)

Preparation Steps:

Step 1: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into bite-sized chunks.

Step 2: Rinse the sweet potato chunks under cold water to remove excess starch.

Step 3: In a deep pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil for deep frying to 340°F (170°C).

Step 4: Carefully fry the sweet potato chunks in batches until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: In a separate saucepan, combine sugar, soy sauce, mirin, and water to create the candy glaze. Stir over low heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 6: Add the fried sweet potato chunks to the candy glaze, ensuring they are well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the glaze caramelizes and coats the sweet potatoes.

Step 7: Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds, kinako, or chopped nuts over the candied sweet potatoes for added flavor and texture.

Step 8: Remove the Daigaku Imo from the heat and let them cool slightly before serving.

Step 9: Serve the Daigaku Sweet Potato as a delightful snack or dessert.

Daigaku Sweet Potato is a beloved Japanese treat that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a delicious candy glaze. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a sweet ending to a meal, it's a delightful way to experience the rich flavors of Japanese cuisine.