Gamja jorim is a favorite Korean braised potato dish, combining potatoes and dried sea kelp in a slightly sweet and savory soy sauce. Explore this simple, authentic side dish recipe that’s vegetarian-friendly

Gamja jorim, Korean braised potato, garnished with sesame seeds.

If you like potatoes, this Korean potato side dish called “gamja jorim, 감자조림” would be something you should try. I haven’t met anyone who doesn’t like this gamja jorim once they tried.

Plus, this would be the one of the easiest Korean side dishes (banchan, 반찬) you can make. It is quick to make with only a few ingredients and tastes great.

By the way, don’t get confused gamja jorim with gamja bokkeum, pan-fried potato, which is another Korean potato side dish.

What is Gamja Jorim?

Gamja jorim (감자조림) is a popular Korean potato side dish. The cubed potato pieces are simmered in a slightly sweetened soy sauce, resulting in a delicious and flavorful treat. Adding a piece of dried sea kelp takes the flavor to the next level.

What makes this dish so special? It’s not only easy to prepare, but it’s a great vegetarian option that everyone can enjoy. If you’ve never tried gamja jorim, you’re in for a real treat!

Ingredients for Gamja Jorim

  • Potato: I recommend Yukon or russet potato
  • Dried sea kelp (dashima): Adds depth to the flavor.
  • Soy sauce: The base of the simmering liquid.
  • Corn syrup: Brings luster to the dish.
  • Water: For simmering.
  • Toasted sesame seeds: For garnishing.
  • Optional Ingredients: Green chili
    • It adds a spicy kick if desired.

How to make Gamja Jorim (Braised Potato Side Dish)

Preparing the Potato

Cubed potato pieces are soaking in water in a bowl.

You will need to soak the cubed potato in the water to get rid of some of its starch. This process ensures the potatoes hold their shape during cooking.

Creating the Simmering Sauce

Soy sauce mixture for braising potatoes

Mix soy sauce, rice syrup (or corn syrup), and water. This will form the slightly sweetened sauce that gives gamja jorim its signature taste.

If you prefer a hint of spice, consider adding a touch of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), to give the dish a slightly different and exciting taste.

Cooking the Potatoes

Sea kelp is added to bring umami flavor to gamja jorim.

Combine the potato, sauce, and a piece of dried sea kelp. Bring to a gentle boil and cook, removing the sea kelp after 2 minutes.

Slices of green chili are added to simmering potato in a skillet.

Reduce the heat to med-low, and continue to simmer to soften the potato and thicken the sauce, about 5-7 minutes. Add green chili if desired.

Potato cubes are braising in a soy sauce mixture to make gamja jorim.

When the sauce is thickened and the potatoes are tender, remove from heat. Be cautious not to overcook the potatoes, as they may become mushy.

Korean braised potatoes are garnished with sesame seeds in a skillet.

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, and enjoy your homemade gamja jorim!

Gamja Jorim, Korean braised potato side dish, served in a bowl.

Storage Tips

Keep this Korean potato side dish in the refrigerator at all times. It will last up to 1 week. Freezing is not recommended.

Gamja jorim is more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting taste of Korean home cooking. Simple to make with readily available ingredients, this delightful banchan (반찬) is pleasing to anyone who enjoys Korean food. If you like all sorts of Korean side dishes, don’t hesitate to try it today!

Other Korean Side Dishes You Should Try

Cubes of Korean potato side dish is on a napkin with a pair of chopsticks

Gamja Jorim (Korean Braised Potatoes)

Gamja jorim is a favorite Korean braised potato dish made with potatoes, dried sea kelp in a slightly sweet and savory soy sauce. This simple, authentic side dish recipe is vegetarian-friendly!
5 from 2 ratings

Ingredients

Instructions 

  • Cube the potato into 1/2-inch and soak them in the cold water for 10 minutes
  • In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, syrup, and water; Mix well.
  • Drain the potato and combine with the sauce in a skillet. Add the dried sea kelp and bring them to boil. Stir occasionally. Remove the sea kelp after 2 minutes.
  • Reduce the heat to med-low and continue to simmer to thicken the sauce, about 5-7 minutes. Once the sauce is thicken and potatoes are tender, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the sesame seeds. Serve warm, cooled or chilled. Store in the fridge up to one week.
Calories: 136kcal, Carbohydrates: 29g, Protein: 4g, Fat: 1g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 519mg, Potassium: 507mg, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 9g, Vitamin A: 3IU, Vitamin C: 22mg, Calcium: 38mg, Iron: 1mg
Did you make this recipe?Tag @beyondkimchee on Instagram. I love to see your masterpiece.

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