Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim)

Introduction

Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim) are the ultimate comfort side dish, offering a balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors that are absolutely irresistible. The potatoes are tender and rich from slow braising in a sauce made of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil, giving them a deep, umami-packed flavor with a satisfying sweetness. The addition of sesame seeds and green onions provides a touch of crunch and freshness, making each bite perfectly balanced.

This dish holds a special place in my heart as it’s a staple in Korean home cooking, often served at family meals. I first made it for a weeknight dinner, and it immediately became a favorite in our house. The sweet-savory sauce coats the potatoes beautifully, giving them a glossy finish that’s both appetizing and comforting. The smell of garlic and soy sauce as it braises brings a warmth that makes you feel like you’re truly at home.

Gamja Jorim is perfect for those days when you want something hearty but not too heavy. It pairs wonderfully with rice, grilled meats, or even on its own as a light snack. If you’re looking for a dish that’s full of flavor, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more, this is the recipe you need to try!

Perfect for:

Korean-inspired meals
Quick weeknight dinners
Side dishes that steal the show
Comfort food cravings
Meal prepping for the week

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Yet Flavorful – The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness creates a mouthwatering sauce.
Tender Potatoes – The potatoes soak up the sauce and become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Quick & Easy – A one-pan dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Naturally Gluten-Free – No need to worry about gluten in this dish!
Vegan-Friendly – Perfect for plant-based diets without compromising on flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per Serving: Approximately 150-180 calories

Ingredients

1 lb small potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon sugar (brown sugar or coconut sugar works)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup water
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

Ingredient Highlights

Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty, fragrant flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Soy Sauce – Provides a rich umami base for the braising sauce.
Sugar – Balances the savory flavors with just a hint of sweetness.
Rice Vinegar – Adds a slight tang to brighten the dish.
Sesame Seeds – Gives a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

Wash & Peel (Optional) – Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Peel them if you prefer, or leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients. Cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks.

Make the Braising Sauce

Mix the Sauce – In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves.

Cook the Potatoes

Sauté the Potatoes – Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the potatoes and sauté for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they begin to brown slightly.
Add the Sauce & Garlic – Pour the braising sauce over the potatoes and stir in the minced garlic.
Simmer – Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to coat the potatoes in the sauce.

Finish & Serve

Garnish – Once the potatoes are tender and the sauce has reduced, remove from heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Serve – Serve hot as a side dish with rice or other Korean meals.

How to Serve

With Rice – Serve alongside steamed rice for a traditional Korean meal.
With Other Banchan – This dish pairs well with kimchi, sautéed spinach, or other Korean side dishes.
As a Light Main – If you’re looking for a light meal, serve this as a main dish with some steamed vegetables on the side.
With Tofu – For a protein boost, serve alongside grilled or sautéed tofu.

Additional Tips

Use Small Potatoes – Small, waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape better during braising.
Adjust Sauce to Taste – If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a little extra sugar. For a saltier flavor, increase the soy sauce.
Make It Spicy – Add a dash of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) or fresh chili peppers to the sauce for some heat.
Storage – Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Braised Potatoes – Add gochujang or fresh chili peppers for a spicy kick.
Sweet Potato Version – Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweeter, earthier flavor.
Add Veggies – Include onions, carrots, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Ginger Twist – Add freshly grated ginger to the sauce for an aromatic kick.
Tofu Gamja Jorim – Add cubed tofu for a protein-packed version.
Vegan Kimchi – Serve with a side of vegan kimchi for a complete Korean-inspired meal.
Gochugaru Braised Potatoes – Sprinkle gochugaru on top for an additional layer of spice and color.
Sesame Soy Sauce Braised Potatoes – Increase the sesame oil for a stronger nutty flavor.
Korean-style Braised Carrots – Substitute carrots for potatoes for a more colorful and sweet side.
Crispy Braised Potatoes – Pan-fry the potatoes in oil after braising them for a crispy texture.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing – Braised potatoes freeze well. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Refrigerating – Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave with a splash of water to keep the sauce moist.

Special Equipment

Large Skillet – A large skillet is essential for braising and simmering the potatoes.
Measuring Spoons – For accurate measurements of soy sauce, sugar, and rice vinegar.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Stir the potatoes gently without damaging them.
Cutting Board & Knife – For prepping the potatoes and garlic.
Lid for Skillet – A lid is needed to cover the skillet while the potatoes braise.

FAQ Section

Can I use regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium soy sauce?
Yes, regular soy sauce will work, but the dish may be saltier, so adjust the amount according to your taste.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, other waxy potatoes like red potatoes or fingerling potatoes work best, as they hold their shape when braised.
Can I add meat to this dish?
Absolutely! You can add beef, chicken, or pork if desired, though the traditional version is plant-based.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) or a dash of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the braising sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen and become even more delicious over time.

Conclusion

Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim) is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a burst of savory goodness to your table. With tender, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes simmered in a sweet and salty sauce, this dish is a perfect balance of umami and comfort.

What makes Gamja Jorim truly stand out is its versatility—it can be served as a side dish to complement a variety of meals, or even enjoyed on its own with a bowl of rice. The slightly sticky sauce, rich in soy sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of sweetness, creates a deep flavor profile that makes every bite irresistible.

Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or enjoying it as a quick weeknight meal, Korean Braised Potatoes will quickly become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. I hope you give this recipe a try and bring a taste of Korea into your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your own version, and happy cooking!