korean braised potatoes

Amanda Recipes January 25, 2025January 25, 2025

Korean Braised Potatoes

When you think about comfort food, Korean Braised Potatoes, or Gamja Jorim, might not immediately come to mind. But once you taste the sweet and salty balance achieved through soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, you’ll understand its charm. Typically made with baby yellow or Yukon Gold potatoes, this dish offers a unique texture and flavor that elevates any meal. As a beloved banchan, it holds a significant place in Korean culinary tradition, inviting you to explore its history and the nuances of its preparation that make it truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, you’ll love this Korean braised potatoes recipe. It takes just 30 minutes to make and requires minimal prep work, making it a perfect choice for busy days. You can use any type of potato, like baby potatoes or Yukon Gold, ensuring versatility. The sweet and salty flavor, enhanced by soy sauce and sesame oil, makes each bite enjoyable. Plus, it pairs well with steamed rice and other Korean dishes. The use of baby red royale potatoes is recommended for roasting, which adds to the dish’s overall flavor and texture. You can easily adjust the serving size to fit your needs, whether you’re cooking for four or ten. This dish not only tastes great but also offers a good balance of nutrients, making it a healthy option.

History

Korean braised potatoes, known as Gamja Jorim, have a rich history that dates back to the 18th century when potatoes were first introduced to the Korean peninsula.

As cooks began experimenting with potatoes, they developed various methods of preparation, leading to the creation of this beloved dish.

Gamja Jorim became especially popular during times of hardship, serving as a nourishing and cost-effective option for families. It reflects the resilience and ingenuity of the Korean people, showcasing the depth of flavor that can be achieved with simple ingredients.

Traditionally, you’ll find Gamja Jorim as part of banchan spreads or in home-packed lunch boxes.

Each generation adds its unique twist, ensuring that this dish continues to evolve while remaining a staple in Korean cuisine, cherished across households and regions.

Recipe

Korean Braised Potatoes Recipe

Korean braised potatoes, or “Gamja Jorim,” is a delightful dish that showcases the comforting flavors of tender potatoes simmered in a rich, savory-sweet sauce. This dish is perfect as a side dish or a main event, celebrated for its simplicity and versatility. The combination of soy sauce and mirin brings depth and sweetness, while garlic and sesame oil create a fragrant finish that elevates the potatoes to a new level of deliciousness. Korean Braised Potatoes, known as Gamja Jorim, is a popular side dish in Korea.

To achieve the best results, it’s important to choose the right type of potatoes. Baby yellow or Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred due to their low starch content, which helps them hold their shape during cooking. The process involves browning the potatoes to create a crispy exterior followed by a gentle simmer in a flavorful braising liquid. Enjoy this dish hot or cold, paired with rice or other Korean side dishes for a delightful meal.

Ingredients:
– Baby Yellow or Yukon Gold potatoes
– Avocado oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil
– Soy sauce
– Mirin
– Sugar
– Garlic, minced
– Water
– Sesame oil
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)
– Green onions (for garnish)
– Optional: Chili peppers for spice

Cooking Instructions:

Begin by washing and peeling the baby potatoes. Cut them into uniform pieces, about 1-2 inches in size, to guarantee even cooking. Soak the cut potatoes in water for 10-15 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or pot, heat a few tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the potatoes in batches, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Brown the potatoes for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally to achieve a golden color on all sides. Remove the browned potatoes from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, combine soy sauce, mirin, sugar, minced garlic, and water to create the braising liquid. Stir the mixture and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
Once the braising liquid is simmering, carefully add the browned potatoes back into the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the potatoes to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender and the sauce has thickened.
Towards the end of the cooking time, drizzle sesame oil over the potatoes and gently stir to coat them with the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more soy sauce or sugar as desired.
Once the potatoes are tender and the sauce is thick, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the braised potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Extra Tips:

For the best flavor, allow the braised potatoes to sit for a few minutes after cooking, as this will help the flavors meld together.

You can also experiment by adding seasonal ingredients like chili peppers for a spicy kick or other vegetables like carrots and onions for added texture and flavor.

This dish is incredibly versatile, so feel free to adjust the sweetness and seasoning to suit your personal taste. Enjoy your Korean braised potatoes with a bowl of steamed rice for a satisfying meal!

Final Thoughts

While savoring the delightful flavors of Korean braised potatoes, you may find yourself appreciating not just the dish itself but also its rich cultural significance.

Originating from the Korean peninsula in the 18th century, this dish represents the resilience of the Korean people during tough times. As a staple in the banchan tradition, it enhances meals with its sweet and savory profile and serves as a key component of Korean meals that reflects the importance of balance in Korean cuisine.

The braising method creates a perfect texture, with a crisp exterior and creamy interior. Plus, its versatility allows for various ingredient substitutions, making it adaptable for different diets.

Whether served hot or cold, Korean braised potatoes encourage you to explore the depths of Korean cuisine and its comforting, nourishing qualities.

FAQ

As you explore the delightful world of braised potatoes, you might’ve some questions about preparation, cooking techniques, or serving suggestions.

To start, cut your potatoes into 1-1 1/2 inch chunks for even cooking, and use waxy varieties like Baby Yellow or Yukon Gold for the best results. Gamja jorim, a popular Korean banchan dish, features these braised potatoes and can include additional vegetables like onions and carrots.

When making the braising sauce, combine light soy sauce, mirin, sugar, garlic, and water.

Pan-fry the potatoes until crispy, then add the sauce, cover, and simmer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, and stir occasionally for even cooking.

For serving, these potatoes can be enjoyed hot, warm, or cold, and pair well with dips or as a main dish with rice.

Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a finishing touch.