Gamja Jorim (Korean Braised Potatoes)

• active time: 5 mins
• total time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped into large cubes

1 cup water

1/4 cup soy sauce

1 tbsp minced garlic

1 tbsp sugar

2 tbsp sesame oil

2 tbsp oligodang (can be substituted with corn syrup, rice syrup, or honey)

1 chili pepper, chopped (optional)

Sesame seeds, for garnish

Directions

Prep the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and chop them into large, even-sized cubes. This helps them cook evenly and hold their shape during simmering.

Simmer the Base

Place the potato cubes in a medium pot and add the water, soy sauce, minced garlic, sugar, and sesame oil. Bring everything to a boil over medium heat.

Add Spice

If you want to add a little heat, chop up a chili pepper and toss it in about halfway through the cooking time. Simmer the mixture for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally so the potatoes cook evenly and don’t stick to the bottom.

Finish with Sweetness

Once the liquid has mostly reduced and the potatoes are tender, drizzle in the oligodang. This helps glaze the potatoes and adds a mild sweetness. Stir gently to coat the potatoes well, then turn off the heat.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Enjoy warm with rice or let it cool and pack it up for lunch the next day.