Deliciously Savory Korean Braised Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to Recipes in Style! I’m Sophie Grace, the culinary mind behind this blog, and today I’m thrilled to share with you an exquisite dish that will elevate your home cooking game: Korean Braised Potatoes. This flavorful and aromatic dish is a staple in Korean cuisine, known for its sweet and savory notes that resonate with taste buds worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe is tailored to inspire and guide you effortlessly.

Cooking is more than just preparing food; it’s an art, a passion, and a way to bring people together. Here at Recipes in Style, my aim is to make cooking stylish, creative, and fun for everyone. Korean Braised Potatoes, or “Gamja Jorim,” as it’s known in Korean, is a perfect example of how a simple dish can transform into a gourmet experience. With easy-to-follow instructions and readily available ingredients, you’ll find yourself making this dish time and again, impressing family and friends with your culinary prowess.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Key Benefits

The Korean Braised Potatoes recipe is not just about the delightful taste; it offers several key benefits that make it a standout choice for your meal planning. Firstly, it’s a versatile dish that works as a side or main course, pairing well with various proteins and other Korean dishes. Moreover, it’s a vegetarian-friendly recipe, making it a great option for those seeking meatless meals without sacrificing flavor.

Unique Features

This dish is characterized by its unique balance of sweet and savory flavors, achieved through the combination of soy sauce, sugar, and garlic. Additionally, the slow braising process allows the potatoes to absorb these rich flavors, resulting in a tender and luscious texture. The inclusion of sesame oil and seeds adds a nutty aroma, enhancing the overall taste profile. Furthermore, this recipe is adaptable, allowing you to incorporate other ingredients like carrots or bell peppers, providing a personalized touch to suit your preferences.

Ingredients for Korean Braised Potatoes

Main Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons mirin (rice wine)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, finely chopped

Optional Add-ins

• 1/2 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) for added spice

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep them uniform for even cooking.
2. Prepare the garlic by mincing it finely. Set aside along with the chopped green onions.
3. If adding optional ingredients like carrots or bell peppers, slice them accordingly and set aside.

Cooking Process

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes to the pan, stirring well to coat them with the garlic and oil.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sugar, mirin, and water. Pour this mixture over the potatoes in the pan.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and let the potatoes braise for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Check the potatoes for tenderness. They should be easily pierced with a fork but not falling apart. If adding carrots or bell peppers, incorporate them at this stage and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Once the potatoes are tender and the sauce has reduced to a glaze, stir in the sesame oil and sesame seeds.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with the chopped green onions before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results

Pro Chef Tips

For best results, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, which hold their shape better during the braising process. Additionally, ensuring that all potato pieces are of uniform size will promote even cooking. When braising, keep the heat low to allow the potatoes to absorb the sauce without burning. Lastly, to enhance the nutty aroma, toast the sesame seeds lightly before adding them to the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure the potatoes are in a single layer for optimal heat distribution. Another common mistake is not checking the potatoes for doneness; overcooking can cause them to disintegrate. Also, be cautious with the amount of soy sauce, as it can overpower the dish’s delicate balance if overused.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Calories and Macros

A serving of Korean Braised Potatoes typically contains approximately 180 calories, with about 3 grams of protein, 29 grams of carbohydrates, and 7 grams of fat. This dish is also a good source of dietary fiber, offering around 3 grams per serving.

Health Benefits

Potatoes are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, potassium, and Vitamin B6. They are also rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body. The use of garlic and sesame oil adds anti-inflammatory properties, while green onions contribute to heart health. Additionally, this dish is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy side option for balanced meals.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Dietary Modifications

To make this recipe gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. For a vegan version, ensure that the sugar used is vegan-friendly, as some processed sugars may not be. If you’re reducing sodium intake, use a low-sodium soy sauce and adjust the amount to taste.

Flavor Variations

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a tablespoon of gochujang can spice up the dish while maintaining its authentic Korean flavor. Alternatively, incorporate a hint of ginger for an aromatic twist. Using sweet potatoes in place of regular potatoes can add a natural sweetness, complementing the savory elements of the dish.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

How to Store

Store any leftover Korean Braised Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can use a microwave to reheat them quickly.

Serving Ideas

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, grilled meats, or tofu for a complete meal. For a traditional Korean meal experience, serve it alongside other banchan (Korean side dishes) such as kimchi, pickled radishes, and seaweed salad. It also makes a delightful addition to lunch boxes or picnic spreads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

In conclusion, Korean Braised Potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, offering a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors that are sure to captivate your taste buds. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, embodying the essence of Korean cuisine. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have no trouble recreating this dish in your kitchen. Whether served as a side or main course, it’s bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the rich, comforting taste of Korean Braised Potatoes today!

Bon Appétit!

Deliciously Savory Korean Braised Potatoes Recipe

---

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A flavorful Korean side dish featuring braised potatoes in a sweet and savory soy glaze, finished with sesame oil and seeds.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons mirin (rice wine)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• Optional: 1/2 cup carrots, sliced
• Optional: 1 bell pepper, diced
• Optional: 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)

---

Instructions

1. Peel and dice the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Ensure uniform size for even cooking.
2. Mince the garlic and chop green onions. Prepare optional ingredients if using.
3. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add potatoes and stir to coat in oil and garlic.
5. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, sugar, mirin, and water. Pour over potatoes.
6. Bring to a boil, reduce to simmer. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Check for tenderness. If using carrots or bell peppers, add now and cook an additional 5 minutes.
8. When sauce reduces to a glaze and potatoes are tender, stir in sesame oil and sesame seeds.
9. Remove from heat, garnish with green onions, and serve.

Notes

Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for better texture. Toast sesame seeds beforehand for extra aroma. Avoid overcrowding pan and monitor potato doneness.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Korean Braised Potatoes, Gamja Jorim, soy braised potatoes, Korean side dish, vegetarian Korean recipe