Korean Braised Potatoes, or Gamja Jorim, is a dish that sparks joy in every bite. Imagine a plate filled with tender, glossy potatoes simmered in a mildly sweet soy sauce glaze, complemented by a hint of garlic and onion. Not only is this dish a delightful balance of flavors, but it also comes together in less than 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Did you know that this dish is often served at Korean comfort food gatherings? It’s a true crowd-pleaser! If you’re looking for something simple yet scrumptious, Gamja Jorim deserves a spot on your table. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a bowl of fluffy rice, making it a fantastic choice for a satisfying meal.
Those who enjoy this recipe may also love other cozy Korean dishes, such as Spicy Korean Tofu Stew, which packs a little heat but shares that comforting vibe. Be sure to explore more of our Korean culinary delights. Let’s dive into the world of glorious Gamja Jorim!
What is Perfect Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim)?
So, what’s in a name? Gamja Jorim literally translates to “braised potatoes” in Korean. Funny enough, these humble spuds have a way of stealing the show! Isn’t it amusing how simple ingredients can create something magical? Growing up, my family would joke that the secret to winning over friends was to serve them a heaping dish of Gamja Jorim—after all, they say, ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach!’ If you’re curious about this dish and eager to impress your taste buds, why not give this recipe a whirl? You might just fall in love with these glossy, sweet, and savory potatoes!
Why You’ll Love Perfect Korean Braised Potatoes
Gamja Jorim stands out for several reasons. First, the highlight of the dish is definitely the tender potatoes that soak in that flavorful sauce until they’re perfectly seasoned. It’s like a warm hug of comfort food! Secondly, making this dish at home is budget-friendly; all you need are a few potatoes and pantry staples. Lastly, the unique blend of flavors from the soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil elevates this dish, making it truly special. If you enjoy easy recipes that don’t skimp on taste, you’ll also appreciate our comforting Braised Vegetables recipe. Quite similar in ease and heartiness, it’s a great way to broaden your cooking repertoire! So what are you waiting for? Get those potatoes ready and join the Gamja Jorim club!
How to Make Perfect Korean Braised Potatoes
Quick Overview
Creating Gamja Jorim is an absolute breeze! With its blend of sweet and savory notes, this dish is both simple and satisfying. You can whip it up in about 25-30 minutes, making it an ideal accomplice for busy days or when you just want something comforting and delicious.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Korean Braised Potatoes
To create this delicious dish, here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar (brown sugar works too!)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup of water
- 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash, peel, and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and a lovely presentation.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant and slightly translucent.
- Add the Potatoes: Toss in the chopped potatoes, stirring them well with the sautéed onions and garlic for about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and water. Mix until the sugar is dissolved.
- Simmer the Dish: Pour the sauce over the potatoes in the pan. Increase the heat until it reaches a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce thickens.
- Finish and Serve: Once the potatoes are cooked through, give them a gentle toss in the sauce to coat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot!
Top Tips for Perfecting Perfect Korean Braised Potatoes
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For this recipe, starchy potatoes like russets create a fluffy texture, while waxy potatoes will hold their shape better. Choose based on your preference!
- Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, simply adjust the sugar according to your taste.
- Keep an Eye on the Sauce: Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering to ensure that the potatoes evenly absorb the sauce and don’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider using a pan over low heat with a splash of water to refresh the dish and restore its delicious texture. If you’ve made a larger batch, you can freeze the dish, and it will keep for about a month. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to the freezer. Reheat it gently to enjoy that freshly-cooked taste!
In summary, Perfect Korean Braised Potatoes (Gamja Jorim) is a simple yet delectable dish that deserves a place at any meal. With its unique flavor profile, easy preparation, and satisfying qualities, you’ll surely be back for seconds! So roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Korean Braised Potatoes
Ingredients
Method
- Wash, peel, and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant and slightly translucent.
- Toss in the chopped potatoes, stirring them well with the sautéed onions and garlic for about 2-3 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and water. Mix until the sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the sauce over the potatoes in the pan. Increase the heat until it reaches a gentle boil, then reduce to low heat.
- Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce thickens.
- Once the potatoes are cooked through, give them a gentle toss in the sauce to coat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot!

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