Beet and Potato Salad from Panama

Ensalada de Feria, or beet and potato salad, is a classic Panamanian dish often served at celebrations, holidays, and family gatherings.

This vibrant salad combines hearty potatoes, sweet beets, and creamy dressing for a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is satisfying. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and perfect for a crowd.

Ingredients

To make this traditional beet and potato salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• ½ (15-ounce) can of cut beets, drained
• 1 tablespoon hard-boiled egg, chopped
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• A splash of white vinegar
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• ¼ (5 fl. oz) can of evaporated milk
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped

These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s rich, creamy, and perfect for sharing.

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prep the Potatoes
   Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure they cook evenly and absorb the other ingredients well.
2. Cook the Potatoes
   Add the diced potatoes to a pot of boiling water, making sure they’re fully covered. Boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as you want them to hold their shape in the salad. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
3. Combine Ingredients
   Transfer the cooked potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped onions, diced hard-boiled egg, drained beets, evaporated milk, mayonnaise, mustard, and a splash of white vinegar. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients without breaking up the potatoes too much.
4. Season the Salad
   Add salt and black pepper to taste. It’s best to start with small amounts and adjust gradually to suit your preference. The vinegar and mustard will provide a tangy balance, so taste as you go to make sure everything is well balanced.
5. Chill Before Serving
   Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least an hour. This allows the ingredients to meld together and enhances the overall dish. Serve chilled as a side dish or a light main course.

Storage Instructions

One of the best things about Ensalada de Feria is that it can be made ahead of time and stored for later. Follow these tips to keep it fresh:

• Refrigeration: Transfer the salad to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the texture of the potatoes and mayonnaise-based dressing can change when thawed.
• Refreshing the Salad: If the salad has been refrigerated for a while and seems a little dry, add a splash of evaporated milk or a small amount of mayonnaise to freshen it up.