As the sizzle of crispy potatoes fills the air, I’m instantly transported to the bustling streets of Seoul, where mouthwatering aromas dance around every corner. This Crispy Korean Gochujang Potato Dish is a delightful homage to those vibrant flavors, combining golden, fluffy potatoes with a spicy, tangy gochujang sauce that elevates every bite. Not only is this dish a showstopper at any potluck, but it also comes together quickly, making it a go-to side for weekday dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s completely vegan and gluten-free, ensuring everyone can indulge without worry. Are you ready to discover how these simple ingredients transform into a culinary sensation? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why will you adore this dish?
Crispy Texture: The exterior is perfectly crunchy, while the interior remains light and fluffy. Each bite takes you on a delightful journey.
Vibrant Flavors: Infused with bold gochujang, these potatoes explode with a spicy-tangy kick that’ll have your taste buds dancing!
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Versatile Pairing: Complement your dish with a side of grilled tofu or serve at your next potluck alongside friends! Need sides? Check out our Crispy Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs or Savory Sweet Potato Hash Browns for a delightful twist.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store sauce and potatoes separately for easy reheating – they stay deliciously crispy!
Crispy Korean Potato Dish Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• Small Waxy Potatoes (500 g) – Base for the dish; use fingerlings or cut-up waxy potatoes if unavailable.
• Fine Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances flavor during boiling.
• Plant-Based Butter or Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon) – Adds richness; oil for a lighter option is recommended.
For the Seasoning
• Powdered Garlic (½ teaspoon) – Provides savory depth to the dish.
• Korean Chili Powder (Gochugaru) (1 teaspoon) – Adds heat and color; adjust according to spice preferences.
For the Pickled Shallots
• Shallots (2, finely chopped) – Contributes sweetness; adds a light pickle when mixed with lime juice.
• Lime Juice (Juice from half a lime) – Brightens flavors; essential for shallots.
For the Sauce
• Vegan Mayonnaise (8 tablespoons) – Adds a creamy element; use traditional mayo for a non-vegan option.
• Korean Chili Paste (Gochujang) (1-2 tablespoons) – Provides heat and umami; use less for a mild flavor.
• Plant-Based Fish Sauce Substitute (2 teaspoons) – Imparts savoriness for a flavorful kick.
For Topping
• Fresh Cilantro (a handful) – Adds freshness and a flavor boost.
• Fresh Chives (small handful, finely sliced) – For garnish and extra onion flavor.
• Toasted Black Sesame Seeds (1 teaspoon) – Optional garnish for texture and decorative touch.
Get ready to make this Crispy Korean Potato Dish a highlight of your next meal!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Korean Potato Dish
Step 1: Prep Potatoes
Begin by rinsing 500 g of small waxy potatoes under cool water to remove any dirt. Next, place them in a large pot and cover with water, adding 1 teaspoon of fine salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes, and transfer them to a mixing bowl while they cool slightly.
Step 2: Season Potatoes
Once the potatoes have cooled a bit, combine 1 tablespoon of melted plant-based butter or vegetable oil, ½ teaspoon of powdered garlic, and 1 teaspoon of Korean chili powder (gochugaru). Pour this flavorful mixture over the warm potatoes and gently toss them until they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 3: Smash Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan on) while you prepare the next step. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Using the bottom of a cup or fork, carefully smash the seasoned potatoes on the tray until they are flattened but still intact. This will help create that crispy texture we crave in our Crispy Korean Potato Dish.
Step 4: Cook Potatoes
Place the smashed potatoes in the preheated oven and roast for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, looking for a golden-brown color so you can enjoy those crispy edges and fluffy interiors. Alternatively, you can air fry them at 180°C for the same duration to achieve that delightful crunch.
Step 5: Pickle Shallots
While the potatoes are roasting, finely chop 2 shallots and combine them in a small bowl with the juice from half a lime. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow the shallots to pickle lightly. This step will lend a refreshing contrast to your Crispy Korean Potato Dish.
Step 6: Prepare Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine 8 tablespoons of vegan mayonnaise, 1-2 tablespoons of Korean chili paste (gochujang), and 2 teaspoons of the plant-based fish sauce substitute. Add the pickled shallots along with the lime juice to this mixture and stir until smooth and well combined. This will add a creamy and spicy kick to your potatoes!
Step 7: Serve
Once the potatoes have finished roasting, allow them to cool slightly on the baking tray. Then, transfer them to a serving dish, and generously drizzle the prepared sauce over the crispy potatoes. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, finely sliced chives, and a sprinkle of toasted black sesame seeds for that perfect finishing touch!
Expert Tips for Crispy Korean Potato Dish
Flavor Boost: Don’t rush the smashing: Gently smashing the potatoes creates more surface area for that crispy texture to form, enhancing the overall flavor in your Crispy Korean Potato Dish.
Perfect Pickling: Let shallots sit longer: For an even stronger pickled flavor, let your chopped shallots marinate in lime juice for at least 10 minutes.
Oven Check: Rotate for even cooking: Halfway through roasting, give the baking tray a gentle shake or rotate it to ensure all sides of your potatoes get perfectly crispy.
Sauce Adjustments: Balancing heat: If you love spice, feel free to add more gochujang! For less heat, start with one tablespoon and taste before adding more to your sauce.
Storage Strategy: Keep it crunchy: Store leftover potatoes and sauce separately to preserve that delightful crunch when reheating your dish!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Korean Potato Dish
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Crispy Korean Potato Dish fresher, but be sure to reheat in the oven for that signature crunch!
Freezer: If freezing, place the cooled smashed potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen potatoes in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Sauce Storage: Keep the gochujang sauce in a separate container in the fridge for up to a week. This allows you to enjoy your dish fresh and flavorful each time!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Korean Potato Dish are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the potatoes by rinsing, boiling, and smashing them up to 24 hours in advance. Once you smash them, store the potatoes covered in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The sauce can also be made ahead; simply mix all the ingredients and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, roast the potatoes directly from the fridge for 20 minutes until golden and crispy. Methodically finishing these steps provides busy home cooks with an impressive dish that remains just as delicious and flavorful without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Crispy Korean Gochujang Potato Dish
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these crispy potatoes with delightful sides that complement their bold flavors and textures.
- Grilled Tofu: This protein-packed option offers a smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the tangy gochujang potatoes. Serve it sliced and drizzled with sesame oil for extra depth.
- Fresh Cucumber Salad: A crunchy salad with thinly sliced cucumbers and a light vinegar dressing refreshes the palate, balancing the richness of the potatoes.
- Steamed Broccoli with Lemon: The bright citrus notes of lemon-laden broccoli create a zesty pairing, adding a fresh touch to your meal.
- Korean BBQ: Pair with marinated, grilled beef or pork to create a hearty feast, allowing the spicy potatoes to shine as the perfect sidekick.
- Kimchi: This fermented side brings a spicy, tangy kick that perfectly complements the potatoes, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
- Rice Paper Rolls: Stuffed with fresh veggies and herbs, these light bites add a crisp texture while harmonizing with the flavors of the crispy potatoes.
- Sesame Noodles: For a hearty twist, serve with cold sesame noodles drizzled in a savory sauce. The creamy element pairs nicely with the crunchy spuds.
- Mango Lassi: This refreshing drink offers a cool, sweet contrast that balances the spices from the dish. A great way to cleanse your palate!
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Indulge your dessert cravings with a rich and creamy mousse that provides a delightful end to your flavorful meal.
Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Korean Potato Dish
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these scrumptious twists and swaps!
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Vegan Alternative: Use regular mayonnaise instead of vegan mayo for a creamy option. It will give you that classic, rich flavor while still being delicious.
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Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces used, particularly gochujang and fish sauce substitute, are gluten-free. The taste remains the same without compromise.
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Spice Levels: Adjust the heat by varying the amount of gochugaru, or dip into sweet paprika for a milder flavor without sacrificing that vibrant color.
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Herb Swap: Fresh parsley or basil can be substituted for cilantro if you aren’t a fan. These herbs will still add freshness that elevates your dish.
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Roasted Garlic: Swap out powdered garlic for a couple of roasted garlic cloves for a deeper, sweeter flavor. The difference is aromatic and enticing!
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Savory Twist: Add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor that complements the gochujang sauce beautifully. Pair this with a side of Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup for a cozy meal!
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Sauce Variety: If gochujang isn’t available, mix sriracha and miso paste as a fantastic substitute, retaining that spicy umami essence.
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Nuts for Texture: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some crushed peanuts or almonds over the finished dish. This creates a delightful contrast in texture.
Let your kitchen be your canvas! With each variation, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating something truly personal that brings joy to your table.
Crispy Korean Gochujang Potato Dish Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best potatoes for this dish?
Absolutely! For this Crispy Korean Potato Dish, small waxy potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture. Fingerling potatoes work as a wonderful alternative, offering the same delightful bite. Look for potatoes that are firm to the touch and free of dark spots or wrinkling, as these signs may indicate they’re not fresh.
How should I store leftover Crispy Korean Gochujang Potato Dish?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures that the flavors remain intact. When ready to reheat, pop them in the oven at 180°C to maintain that beloved crispy texture rather than using a microwave.
Can I freeze the crispy potatoes?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the smashed potatoes to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C for about 15-20 minutes until they are crispy and heated through.
What if my sauce is too spicy?
Very! If you find that the sauce has a little too much kick, simply add a bit more vegan mayonnaise to balance the heat. You could also squeeze in more lime juice for an extra punch of flavor or dilute it with a splash of water until you reach your desired heat level.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegan and gluten-free, so it’s perfect for most diets. However, if you’re serving it to guests with allergies, always double-check the brands of mayonnaise and gochujang used, as some may contain allergens. If you want to ensure a nut-free version, be cautious with any garnishes.
How long should I let the pickled shallots marinate?
Very! For the best flavor, allow the shallots to sit in lime juice for a minimum of 5 minutes to pickle lightly. However, I often let them marinate for 10-15 minutes when I have a bit more time, as this deepens the flavors and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Crispy Korean Potato Dish: Irresistibly Flavorful Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by rinsing 500 g of small waxy potatoes under cool water to remove any dirt. Place them in a large pot and cover with water, adding 1 teaspoon of fine salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a mixing bowl while they cool slightly.
- Once the potatoes have cooled a bit, combine 1 tablespoon of melted plant-based butter or vegetable oil, ½ teaspoon of powdered garlic, and 1 teaspoon of Korean chili powder (gochugaru). Pour this mixture over the warm potatoes and gently toss them until they are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan on) while you prepare the next step. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Using the bottom of a cup or fork, carefully smash the seasoned potatoes on the tray until they are flattened but still intact.
- Place the smashed potatoes in the preheated oven and roast for about 20 minutes, looking for a golden-brown color.
- While the potatoes are roasting, finely chop 2 shallots and combine them in a small bowl with the juice from half a lime. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 8 tablespoons of vegan mayonnaise, 1-2 tablespoons of Korean chili paste (gochujang), and 2 teaspoons of the plant-based fish sauce substitute. Add the pickled shallots and lime juice to this mixture and stir until smooth and well combined.
- Once the potatoes have finished roasting, allow them to cool slightly on the baking tray, transfer them to a serving dish, and generously drizzle the prepared sauce over the crispy potatoes. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, finely sliced chives, and a sprinkle of toasted black sesame seeds.
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