| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 265 | 7g | 1g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 6g | 6g | 1.2g |
Why I Love South Korean Vegan Braised Potatoes
Although not from my familial repertoire, the very first time I tried Vegan Braised Potatoes, a hearty South Korean dish, I was immediately taken on a culinary journey. The symphony of flavors present in this dish are so undeniably comforting, it feels like a culinary embrace. This voyage was not only of taste, but also of spirit, opening my understanding to South Korea’s vibrant food culture. Featuring Earth’s humble gift, the potato, and elevated with a medley of carefully chosen seasonings, it’s a dish that nods artfully at tradition while embracing modern vegan tendencies.
Flavors that raise the humdrum to the enchanting
What I love about the Vegan Braised Potatoes recipe is in its beautiful simplicity. Each ingredient serves a purpose, contributing to a tapestry of flavors that create a harmony of taste as each spoonful unfolds on your palate. From the warm sweetness of the brown sugar, the slight burn of gochujang, to the aromatic whisper of sesame oil, every ingredient comes together to enhance the humble potato and transform it into one robust, savory dish.
The genius behind this dish? I must give credit to Chef Judy Joo. While I didn’t train personally under Joo, her influence on contemporary Korean cuisine has been immense, and I’ve found inspiration in her commitment to spotlighting Korean flavors while innovating within culinary tradition. It wouldn’t be far-fetched to say her cookbook ‘Korean Food Made Simple’ had a few pages turned while brainstorming for this recipe.
Perfect companion to any meal
Though this dish sits firmly within the borders of South Korea, its companions on the dinner table can span across continents. A simple bowl of white Japanese rice or a robust, pan-seared salmon from the Pacific Northwest are equally compatible partners to these braised potatoes. Alternatively, turn it into a main course with a sprinkle of protein-rich edamame beans, and you’re in for a sumptuous meal.
The Vegan Braised Potatoes recipe is a testament to how good, hearty food need not be overly complex nor overly fussy. At the crossroads of tradition and innovation, it’s a dish that demonstrates the beauty of simplicity, with a wellspring of flavor within each bite.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs small potatoes
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean hot pepper paste)
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Method
Step One
Start by thoroughly washing 2 lbs of small potatoes. Leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
Step Two
Place the washed potatoes into a large pot and add 4 cups of water, ensuring that the potatoes are covered. Place the pot onto a medium heat and bring to a slight boil.
Step Three
While the potatoes are cooking, prepare your other ingredients. Slice 1 medium onion and mince 4 cloves of garlic. Set both aside for later.
Step Four
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon gochujang, 2 teaspoons sesame oil, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir well to combine these into a sauce.
Step Five
Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender but not fully cooked.
Step Six
At this point, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Step Seven
Transfer the partly cooked potatoes along with the water they were boiling in, into the pan with the onion and garlic. Pour the sauce mixture over the potatoes and stir everything well so that the potatoes are evenly coated.
Step Eight
Let this simmer on a low heat for another 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are evenly glazed and the sauce has thickened.
Step Nine
In the final step, garnish with 3 chopped green onions and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds on top just before serving. Enjoy your Vegan Braised Potatoes hot.
