Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim)

Korean braised potatoes (gamja jorim) are a delightful side dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. This dish features tender baby potatoes glazed in a sweet and savory sauce, making it perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to festive gatherings. The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and honey creates a unique taste that will impress your guests. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, ensuring you can whip it up even on busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of soy sauce, honey, and garlic gives these potatoes a deliciously sticky glaze that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Side Dish: Korean braised potatoes complement various main dishes, making them an ideal side for any meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: With fresh baby potatoes and minimal added sugars, this dish is a wholesome option.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family meal, everyone will love this comforting side.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the potatoes evenly until tender.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining the braising liquid ingredients thoroughly.
• Skillet: The best tool for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust on the potatoes.

Ingredients

Korean braised potatoes (gamja jorim) require simple yet flavorful ingredients:

Potatoes

• 1 1/2 lb Baby Potatoes (washed)

Liquids and Seasonings

• 2 tablespoon white vinegar
• 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 2 tablespoon honey
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (ground)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Garnish

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1 stalk Green onion (chopped)

How to Make Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim)

Step 1: Make the Braising Liquid

In a small mixing bowl, add the following ingredients:
1. Soy sauce
2. Mirin
3. Honey
4. Minced garlic
5. Ground black pepper
6. Water
7. Sesame oil

Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Bring a large pot of water mixed with a splash of vinegar to a boil over medium-high heat.
– Add the washed baby potatoes.
– Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes or until they are tender when poked with a fork.
– Drain, dry, and set aside.

Step 3: Pan Fry the Potatoes

In a large skillet:
– Heat vegetable oil over medium heat until hot.
– Add the cooked potatoes and pan-fry for about 4 minutes until they turn golden brown.

Step 4: Add the Braising Liquid

Pour in the prepared braising liquid:
– Toss everything together until well-coated.
– Simmer while stirring frequently for about 5–6 minutes or until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Turn off the heat.
• Mix in toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onion before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Korean braised potatoes (gamja jorim) as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim)

Korean braised potatoes (gamja jorim) make a delightful side dish that can accompany various meals. Their sweet and savory flavor enhances any meal, making them a versatile option for serving.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled meats for a balanced meal that combines protein with the sweetness of the potatoes.

In a Rice Bowl

• Serve over steamed rice, allowing the sauce to soak into the rice for added flavor.

With Korean Fried Chicken

• Enjoy alongside crispy Korean fried chicken to complement the rich flavors and textures of both dishes.

As Part of a Banchan Spread

• Include in a traditional banchan spread, offering guests a variety of tastes and textures commonly found in Korean meals.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top with chopped herbs or additional green onions for a fresh finish that brightens the dish.

How to Perfect Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim)

To achieve the best results when making Korean braised potatoes, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose small potatoes: Baby potatoes cook evenly and absorb the glaze beautifully, enhancing their flavor.

• Minimize boiling time: Boil until just tender to avoid mushy potatoes. This helps maintain their shape during frying.

• Use high heat for frying: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding potatoes. This creates a crispy exterior that contrasts nicely with the soft interior.

• Adjust sweetness: Customize the level of sweetness by varying the amount of honey used based on your taste preference.

• Let it sit: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together even more.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim)

Korean braised potatoes pair well with an array of side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Kimchi: A spicy and tangy fermented vegetable side that adds depth to your meal.

2. Korean Coleslaw: A refreshing salad made with cabbage and carrots, balancing out the richness of gamja jorim.

3. Braised Tofu: Silken tofu cooked in soy sauce, which complements the savory flavors of the potatoes nicely.

4. Pickled Radish: Crunchy and slightly sweet pickled radish slices offer a refreshing contrast to the warm dish.

5. Seaweed Salad: Light and flavorful, this salad adds an umami touch that pairs beautifully with gamja jorim.

6. Spicy Fish Cake Soup: A comforting soup that brings warmth and spice to your dining experience alongside the sweet potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean braised potatoes (gamja jorim), avoiding common mistakes can enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Using old potatoes – Fresh baby potatoes are essential. Old or sprouted potatoes can affect the taste and texture. Always choose firm, unblemished potatoes.
• Skipping the boiling step – Boiling the potatoes before frying ensures they cook evenly. Skipping this step can lead to undercooked or burnt potatoes.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Precision in soy sauce and honey measurements is crucial for balancing flavors. Use measuring spoons for accuracy.
• Cooking at too high a heat – Cooking over high heat may burn the glaze. Maintain medium heat to allow proper caramelization without burning.
• Neglecting garnishes – Garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds add flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip them for a more vibrant dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Korean braised potatoes (gamja jorim) in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim)

• Place cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim)

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts of 1 minute, stirring in between, until warmed completely.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Korean braised potatoes (gamja jorim).

Can I use different types of potatoes for gamja jorim?

Yes, while baby potatoes are traditional, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make gamja jorim spicier?

To add spice, include sliced chili peppers or a dash of gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) when adding the braising liquid.

Can I make Korean braised potatoes (gamja jorim) ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish tastes even better after resting. Make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

What should I serve with Korean braised potatoes?

Korean braised potatoes pair well with rice dishes and other banchan like kimchi or pickled vegetables. They also complement grilled meats perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Korean braised potatoes (gamja jorim) are not only delicious but also versatile as a side dish or snack. Their sweet and savory flavors make them appealing to everyone. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or vegetables!

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Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim)

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Korean braised potatoes, known as gamja jorim, are a delightful and comforting side dish that adds a sweet and savory touch to any meal. This easy-to-make recipe features tender baby potatoes simmered in a luscious glaze made with soy sauce, honey, and garlic, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, gamja jorim is not only quick to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with various main dishes. Elevate your dining experience with this irresistible Korean classic that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 lb baby potatoes
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tbsp mirin
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Optional: green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, honey, minced garlic, black pepper, water, and sesame oil; mix well.
2. Boil baby potatoes in a pot of water mixed with vinegar for 12–15 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat; add the cooked potatoes and pan-fry until golden brown (about 4 minutes).
4. Pour the prepared braising liquid over the potatoes; toss to coat and simmer for about 5–6 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onion before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Pan-frying
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3/4 cup (150g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg