Potato Cheese Mochi

Instructions

• Make the potato mochi: Prepare the mashed potatoes according to the package instructions. Let cool at room temperature for 15 minutes.
• In a medium bowl, combine the mashed potatoes and potato starch, using a rubber spatula to mix until the starch is completely absorbed and no longer visible. Let sit for 15 minutes for the potatoes to absorb the starch.
• Use a scoop to portion the potato mixture into 8 2-ounce balls.
• Flatten a ball with your palms, then place a cube of cheese in the center. Wrap the dough around the cheese to seal completely, then pinch together the seams and shape into a patty. Repeat with the remaining potato mixture and cheese.
• Make the yaki sauce: In a small pan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, sake, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the sauce has thickened and looks glossy, about 5 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat.
• Add enough canola oil to a large skillet to coat the bottom. Heat over medium heat, then add the potato patties and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
• Turn off the heat and pour the yaki sauce into the pan. Let the residual heat thicken the sauce, flipping the potato patties until evenly glazed.
• Wrap a strip of nori around each potato mochi, then serve immediately.
• Enjoy!