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When the craving for comfort food hits, I often find myself wandering down flavor lanes that remind me of adventures in the kitchen. That’s where the inspiration for these Crispy Korean Potatoes with Gochujang & Shallots came from. Picture this: fluffy potatoes, roasted until gloriously golden, drizzled with a spicy, tangy gochujang sauce that dances on your taste buds. It’s a delightful twist on the classic potato salad, offering a perfect crunchy contrast with zesty pickled shallots and a creamy vegan mayo.

This dish turned into a staple in my home kitchen, especially during BBQ season when I needed something that would impress guests without hours of prep. Plus, it’s versatile and absolutely easy to whip up, making it ideal for both casual dinners and festive gatherings. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or just a lover of tasty food, these crispy Korean potatoes are sure to brighten up your plate and keep fast food at bay. Let’s dive into this culinary creation that blends comfort with a fun Korean twist!

Why love Crispy Korean Potato Dish?

Delicious Fusion: This dish marries classic comfort food with bold Korean flavors.
Quick & Easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a gourmet side ready in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for BBQs or family dinners, it never fails to impress!
Customizable: Easily adapt the spices and sauces to suit your taste, making it your own.
Health-Conscious: Vegan, gluten-free, and packed with flavor, it’s guilt-free indulgence.
Sidekick for Any Meal: Pair with grilled meats or summer salads for a satisfying feast. Check out our tips on serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience!

Crispy Korean Potato Dish Ingredients

For the Potatoes
• Small waxy potatoes (500 g) – Provides structure and creaminess; if unavailable, fingerlings or other waxy potatoes work well.
• Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the flavor of potatoes during boiling.
• Plant-based butter or vegetable oil (1 tablespoon) – Adds richness; for an oil-free option, leave out or use a low-calorie spray.

For the Seasoning
• Garlic powder (½ teaspoon) – Introduces savory depth; fresh garlic can be substituted for a bolder taste.
• Korean chili powder (gochugaru) (1 teaspoon) – Contributes heat and color; for milder flavor, use sweet paprika.

For the Toppings
• Shallots (2 small) – Provides a sweet and tangy bite; can substitute with red onion if needed.
• Lime juice (from half a lime) – Brightens the dish.
• Vegan mayonnaise (8 tablespoons) – Bases the creamy sauce; vegan Kewpie is recommended. Regular mayo is an option for non-vegan versions.
• Korean chili paste (gochujang) (1-2 tablespoons) – Adds spiciness and umami; adjust amount based on heat preference.
• Plant-based fish sauce substitute (2 teaspoons) – Introduces umami; skip if unavailable.
• Fresh cilantro leaves (a handful) – Adds freshness and flavor; omit if desired.
• Chives (a small handful) – Provides an oniony note and color.
• Toasted black sesame seeds (1 teaspoon) – Optional garnish for added texture and flavor.

This ingredient list for the Crispy Korean Potato Dish ensures you have everything you need to create a delectable and satisfying meal. Enjoy cooking!

How to Make Crispy Korean Potato Dish

Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan on) or set your air fryer to 180°C. This helps achieve that perfect golden crispiness!
Boil the small waxy potatoes in salted water for about 10 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain carefully, and transfer them to a bowl for seasoning.
Toss the warm potatoes with melted plant-based butter, garlic powder, gochugaru, and a pinch of additional salt until they’re well coated in flavor.
Smash the potatoes gently using a jar or a glass, keeping them mostly intact but crushed enough to form a delightful texture.
Roast the smashed potatoes in the oven for about 20 minutes until they turn golden and crispy; if using an air fryer, cook for the same time for that irresistible crunch!
Combine chopped shallots with lime juice in a bowl; let them pickle for about 5 minutes to bring out their tangy flavor.
Mix the vegan mayonnaise, gochujang, plant-based fish sauce, and cilantro with the pickled shallots until smooth and creamy.
Allow the potatoes to cool for a few minutes, then pour half of the delightful sauce over them, ensuring they’re well coated.
Garnish with fresh chives and toasted black sesame seeds, and serve the remaining sauce on the side for an extra kick!

Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Crispy Korean Potato Dish Variations

Feel free to tweak the recipe and make it your own with these exciting alternatives that will tantalize your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter for a rich flavor without dairy. Embrace the plant-based goodness!
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or jalapeños for an extra layer of heat that wakes up every bite. Your palate will thank you!
Herb Twist: Substitute fresh parsley or dill for cilantro to create a different flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients. Deliciously herbaceous!
Sour Mix: Replace lime juice with apple cider vinegar for a unique tang that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. This brightens the dish beautifully!
Creamy Upgrade: Swap out the vegan mayo for a cashew cream for a richer, creamier sauce that’s simply irresistible. Your guests will be raving!
Asian Fusion: Incorporate sesame oil into your butter or oil mixture for a nutty flavor explosion that enhances the authenticity. A warm, aromatic delight!
Crunchy Topping: Top with crushed toasted peanuts or chopped almonds for added texture and a fun crunch with every bite. This enhances both flavor and satisfaction!
Zesty Lemon: Use fresh lemon juice instead of lime for a brighter, refreshing flavor that elevates the overall dish! Perfectly zesty!

Expert Tips for Crispy Korean Potato Dish

Prep Ahead: If time permits, prepare the potatoes the day before; crisp them in the oven before serving for the best texture.
Adjust Spice Levels: Taste the gochujang for heat before adding the full amount; adjust based on your preference for the Crispy Korean Potato Dish.
Maintain Crunch: Keep the sauce separate from the potatoes until serving to maintain that delightful crunch.
Reheating Hacks: Avoid the microwave! Revive crispy texture by placing leftovers on a baking tray and warming in the oven at 180°C for 5-10 minutes.
Substitutions: Try mixing sriracha and miso instead of gochujang for a milder flavor, or sweet paprika instead of gochugaru for a low-spice version.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Korean Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can boil and smash the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their texture. Additionally, the pickled shallots and creamy sauce can be prepared two days ahead and refrigerated. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast the prepped potatoes for 20 minutes in the oven or air fryer at 200°C (or 180°C), until they are gloriously crispy. By separating the sauce and potatoes until serving, you’ll ensure they stay just as delicious and crunchy, making your meal planning easier and more convenient during busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Crispy Korean Potatoes with Gochujang & Shallots?

Picture a gathering where flavors meld and laughter fills the air; the perfect side can elevate any meal.

Grilled Tofu: Charred and smoky, grilled tofu becomes a hearty vegan companion that complements the vibrant flavors.
BBQ Ribs: The savory, sweet profile of BBQ ribs pairs beautifully, enhancing the dish’s spicy zing with smoky notes.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A light, crunchy salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil balances the richness of the potatoes, creating a delightful contrast.
Kimchi: The tangy, fermented crunch of kimchi adds authenticity and a punchy flavor, keeping with the Korean theme of this dish.
Pickled Vegetables: A mix of pickled carrots and radishes can brighten up the plate while offering a refreshing crunch alongside the potatoes.
Sangria: A fruity sangria blends sweetness and acidity, making it a refreshing drink choice to complement spicy dishes and enhance your dining experience.
Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing mango sorbet cleanses the palate and brings a sweet finish to a bold meal.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Korean Potato Dish

Fridge: Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors intact while maintaining freshness.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze unused portions in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy the crispy texture again, avoid microwaving. Instead, place the potatoes on a baking tray and warm in the oven at 180°C for 5-10 minutes.

Sauce Storage: Keep the gochujang sauce separate and in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. Use it as a dip for additional flavor!

Crispy Korean Potato Dish Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for small waxy potatoes as they provide a creamy texture and hold their shape well during cooking. If these are unavailable, fingerlings or other waxy varieties will work just as nicely. Just avoid starchy potatoes, as they can become too mushy.

How should I store leftovers of my Crispy Korean Potato Dish?
Oh, definitely! Store any leftover crispy potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their flavor and texture. To revive that wonderful crispiness before serving, simply broil them briefly in the oven for a few minutes.

Can I freeze the crispy Korean potatoes?
Yes, you can! For long-term storage, freeze any unused portions in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 180°C for about 5-10 minutes to regain their crispy texture.

What if my potatoes aren’t crispy after baking?
Very! If your potatoes don’t come out crispy, that can often be due to moisture. Ensure that you drain the potatoes well after boiling and let them roast without overcrowding on the baking sheet for maximum crispiness. If you prefer, you can also broil them for an extra couple of minutes at the end.

Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This Crispy Korean Potato Dish is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it a great option for many dietary needs. If you’re allergic to spices like gochujang, feel free to substitute it with a mix of sriracha and miso or use a mild chili sauce. Always check ingredient labels for allergens in sauces.

How long should I keep the sauce?
You can keep the gochujang sauce in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. It’s perfect for drizzling over salads or using as a dip! Enjoy experimenting with this flavorful addition to elevate even more dishes.