Gochujang Braised Potatoes (Gamja Bokkeum): A Sweet-Spicy Korean Side Dish

Why This Korean Potato Dish Is So Loved

Gochujang braised potatoes — often linked to Gamja Bokkeum (감자볶음) or Gamja Jorim (감자조림) — are one of the most comforting Korean side dishes.
It’s slightly sweet, gently spicy, glossy, and perfect with warm rice.
This dish often appears in Korean home meals, lunchboxes, and simple everyday dinners.

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🥔 Ingredients You’ll Need

• Potatoes (waxy potatoes work best)
• Gochujang
• Soy sauce
• Sugar or honey
• Garlic
• Green onions
• Sesame oil
• Sesame seeds

✔ Ingredient Tips for Foreign Residents

• Waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold, baby potatoes) hold shape better than floury potatoes.
• If gochujang is hard to find, look for “Korean red chili paste” in the Asian aisle or international section.
• Honey can replace sugar for a glossier sauce.

🍳 How to Make Gochujang Braised Potatoes

1. Prep the potatoes

Cut into even bite-sized pieces so they cook at the same speed.

2. Light pan-fry

Sauté potatoes with a little oil until edges begin to turn golden.

3. Add seasoning

Mix gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, and water. Pour into the pan.

4. Simmer until soft

Let potatoes cook over medium heat, absorbing the sauce as it reduces.

5. Finish with aroma

Add minced garlic, green onions, and a drizzle of sesame oil.

6. Serve warm

Top with toasted sesame seeds and enjoy with rice.

🍱 How Koreans Usually Eat This Dish

• Served as banchan (side dish) with rice
• Packed in dosirak (lunchboxes) because it keeps its flavor well
• Paired with mild dishes like grilled fish, tofu, or steamed eggs
• Popular with kids because it’s mildly spicy and slightly sweet

🔄 Variations You Can Try

• Soy-sauce only version (for those who don’t prefer spicy flavors)
• Baby potato version – cook whole until tender
• More spicy version – add gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
• Vegetarian-friendly – naturally vegetarian; ensure soy sauce brand is vegan if needed

🌍 Tips for Beginners & Foreign Residents

• Gochujang can stain pans slightly — soak in warm water after cooking.
• This dish stores well → meal prep friendly (2–3 days in fridge).
• If sauce thickens too quickly, add 1–2 tbsp water.

🧂 Pair It With These Korean Dishes

• Korean grilled mackerel
• Gyeran-jjim (steamed egg)
• Kimchi fried rice
• Korean vegetable pancake (Yachaejeon)

⭐ Final Thoughts

Gochujang braised potatoes are simple, comforting, and iconic.
Whether you’re new to Korean cooking or already love Asian flavors, this is an easy dish that always impresses.

Craving more Korean flavors?
Explore more easy, comforting Korean dishes that you can cook at home:

• Korean fried chicken & beer (chimaek)
• Plant-based Korean cuisine ideas
• Vegan kimchi & fermented foods

Want to dive deeper into Korean food culture?
These trusted resources are a great place to start:

• Korea Tourism Organization – Korean food guide
• Maangchi – authentic Korean home-style recipes

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