Korean Braised Potatoes

Gamja jorim represents the everyday comfort of Korean home cooking, where humble potatoes are transformed into a flavorful banchan through careful braising in a soy sauce-based liquid. This dish exemplifies the Korean cooking principle of transforming simple ingredients into something special through patience and technique. In Korean households, these glazed potatoes are a beloved banchan that appeals to all ages.

What makes gamja jorim particularly special is its ability to achieve the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and umami flavors while maintaining the potato's natural texture. The braising process allows each piece to absorb the seasoning while developing a glossy coating that makes them irresistible. This banchan demonstrates how Korean cuisine often improves simple ingredients through technique and timing.

In modern Korean dining, gamja jorim continues to be a popular banchan both at home and in restaurants. Whether packed in lunch boxes, served at family meals, or presented as part of a larger spread, these braised potatoes provide a comforting familiarity while complementing other dishes on the Korean table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Perfect balance of sweet and savory

• Simple ingredients

• Kid-friendly

• Make-ahead friendly

• Versatile side dish

• Great for lunch boxes

What is Gamja Jorim?

Gamja jorim (감자조림) is Korean braised potatoes where baby potatoes or potato chunks are simmered in a soy sauce-based seasoning until they develop a sweet-savory glaze. The potatoes become tender while maintaining their shape and absorbing the flavorful braising liquid.

Recipe Tips

• Choose similar-sized potatoes

• Don't overcook

• Watch liquid reduction carefully

• Stir gently to avoid breaking

• Test doneness with fork

• Let cool slightly before serving

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Steamed rice

• Other banchan

• Korean main dishes

• In lunch boxes

• As a side dish

• With Korean BBQ

Variations

• Add carrots

• Include mushrooms

• Spicy version

• Sweet potato version

• Different potato varieties

• Add other vegetables

Storage

• Keeps 4-5 days refrigerated

• Store in airtight container

• Reheat gently

• Can be served cold

• Don't freeze

My Korean pantry items for this recipe include:

Kikkoman Soy Sauce Ottogi Rice Syrup Kadoya Sesame Oil Shirakiku Sesame Seeds