Easy and Delicious Gamja Jorim (Korean Braised Potatoes) Recipe

Ingredients

500g baby potatoes
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons corn syrup
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
2 green onions, chopped
1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Steps and instructions

Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and peel them.
In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Add the potatoes to the pan and sauté them until slightly browned.
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, sugar, corn syrup, minced garlic, and chili flakes.
Pour the sauce mixture over the potatoes in the pan.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through.
Stir in the sesame oil, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the potatoes are well coated with the sauce.
Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Pan - A cooking utensil used for sautéing the potatoes.
Bowl - Used for mixing the sauce ingredients.
Spatula - To stir and flip the potatoes while sautéing.
Knife - For peeling the potatoes and mincing the garlic cloves.
Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the ingredients.

Recipe variations

Use different types of potatoes such as Yukon Gold or russet potatoes.
Add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
Replace the vegetable oil with olive oil or coconut oil.
Experiment with different sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of sugar.
Add protein by including sliced beef, pork, or chicken to make it a meat-based dish.
Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of soy sauce and omitting any meat or seafood.
For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a teaspoon of gochujang (Korean red pepper paste).
Sprinkle some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top for added freshness.
Adjust the sweetness by reducing or increasing the amount of sugar or corn syrup according to your taste preference.
For a gluten-free option, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.

Recipe overview

Gamja Jorim is a classic Korean side dish that features baby potatoes cooked in a delicious and savory soy-based glaze. This dish is incredibly flavorful, balancing the richness of the potatoes with the sweetness of sugar and the umami depth of soy sauce. Added sesame oil provides a nutty aroma and some heat is incorporated with optional chili flakes. The process to make Gamja Jorim is simple yet rewarding - you will sauté the potatoes, simmer them in the sauce until they are tender and well coated, and finish them off with green onions and sesame seeds. Whether you're new to Korean cuisine or a seasoned veteran, this delectable dish is sure to be a hit at your dining table.

Common questions

Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes? Yes, you can use regular potatoes for this recipe. Just make sure to cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
Is corn syrup necessary for the recipe? Corn syrup adds a touch of sweetness and helps to create a glossy sauce texture. If you don't have corn syrup, you can substitute it with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup.
Can I adjust the amount of chili flakes? Yes, you can adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the chili flakes altogether.
Can I substitute sesame oil with another oil? Sesame oil adds a distinct nutty flavor to the dish. However, if you don't have sesame oil, you can use another neutral-flavored oil like vegetable oil or canola oil as a substitute.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make Gamja Jorim ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Potato peeler - A tool used to peel the skin off the baby potatoes.
Pan - A cooking utensil used for sautéing the potatoes and simmering the sauce.
Bowl - A container used for mixing the sauce ingredients.
Spatula - A utensil used for stirring and flipping the potatoes during cooking.
Tongs - Utensils used for handling and serving the cooked potatoes.

Origin stories

Gamja Jorim is a traditional Korean side dish, often enjoyed as part of a home-cooked meal. The word "Gamja" means potato, and "Jorim" refers to the process of simmering in a sauce. This dish is known for its sweet and salty flavor profile, as it's usually cooked in soy sauce, sugar and syrup. The use of baby potatoes is a charming tribute to the agrarian roots of Korean culture, where every part of the harvest was used, and nothing was wasted. The addition of sesame seeds and green onions not only adds to its flavor but also its aesthetics, making it a delightful feast for the eyes. This humble potato dish, with its unique Korean twist, is a testament to Korea's rich and diverse culinary heritage.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.