Gamja Jorim is a popular Korean side dish made from potatoes simmered in a sweet and savory sauce. This dish is often served as a banchan (side dish) in Korean restaurants and is loved for its delicious flavor and tender texture. It's easy to make and pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Let's learn how to make this tasty Gamja Jorim at home.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3-4 medium-sized potatoes
- 1 onion, roughly chopped
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 stalks of green onions, thinly sliced
Seasoning Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon mirin (optional)
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste) or to taste
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
Instructions
Steps
Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes (about 2 cm). Soak the potato pieces in cold water for 10-15 minutes to reduce the starch content, then drain and pat them dry with a clean towel.
Sauté the Ingredients: Heat a little oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
Cook the Potatoes: Add the potato pieces to the pan, stirring well with the onion and garlic. Cook for a few minutes until the potatoes start to brown slightly.
Add the Seasoning: Add the soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, mirin (if using), gochujang, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the seasonings with the potatoes.
Simmer with Broth: Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Stir well and cover the pan. Let it simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has absorbed.
Final Touch: Once the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, uncover the pan and let any excess liquid evaporate. Add the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Stir well and turn off the heat.
Serve: Transfer the Gamja Jorim to a serving dish. Serve warm as a side dish to rice or other main dishes.
Tips
- For a variation in flavor, you can add carrot or bell pepper pieces to this dish.
- If you prefer a spicier taste, add more gochujang or some sliced red chili.
- Avoid stirring the potatoes too much while cooking to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Use firm-textured potatoes like russet or white potatoes for the best results.
Variations
- Gamja Jorim with Meat: Add pieces of beef or chicken to this dish for added protein.
- Vegan Gamja Jorim: Ensure to use vegetable broth and avoid mirin or any animal-based sauces for a vegan version.
- Sweet and Spicy Gamja Jorim: Add honey or corn syrup for a thicker sweetness and more gochujang for a spicier kick.
Calories
The estimated calorie count for one serving of Gamja Jorim (about 200 grams) is around 150-200 calories. This can vary depending on the ingredients and proportions used.
Conclusion
Gamja Jorim is a simple yet flavorful Korean dish. With easily accessible ingredients and practical cooking methods, you can create a delicious side dish to complement various main dishes. The variations and tips provided offer flexibility in preparation, allowing you to adjust the recipe to your taste and needs. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful Gamja Jorim!
