Run On Gamjatang (감자탕)
Why this food?
Gamjatang is the ultimate Korean winter stew that brings together tender pork neck bones, potatoes, and perilla leaves in a deeply savory broth. In Run On, this hearty soup symbolizes athletic recovery and the comfort of shared meals during harsh winters. It's the kind of food that warms you from the inside out—exactly what K-drama fans crave when they're watching cozy winter episodes.
🇰🇷 K-Culture Tip
Gamjatang originates from the Busan port area, where fishermen and dock workers created this budget-friendly soup using pork bones discarded by butchers. The dish has become synonymous with Korean sports culture—athletes swear by it for protein recovery. Perilla leaves (kkaennip) are essential, not just for flavor but for their traditional role in Korean wellness cooking.
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Substitute Ingredients
All available at Walmart
| Original | Substitute |
|---|---|
Pork Neck Bones 돼지목뼈 | Pork Neck Bones (Great Value or Fresh) Great Value Ask butcher at Walmart deli to crack bones slightly for better broth extraction. If unavailable, substitute with pork shoulder bone-in (about 2.5 lbs) and add 15 minutes to simmer time. Shop at Walmart |
Potatoes 감자 | Russet Potatoes (Great Value) Great Value Russet potatoes hold their shape better than waxy varieties. Cut into 1.5-inch chunks to match traditional presentation. Shop at Walmart |
Korean Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru) 고추가루 | Simply Organic Gochugaru or McCormick Korean Chili Powder Simply Organic or McCormick Gochugaru (coarse flakes) is essential for authentic flavor—different from cayenne. Gives the signature red color and slight fruity heat. Do not substitute with hot sauce. Shop at Walmart |
🛒 Can't find it at Walmart? Try a Korean grocery store
Your Shopping List
Walmart edition
- 2 lbs Pork Neck Bones (Great Value or Fresh)
- 4 medium (about 1.5 lbs) Russet Potatoes (Great Value)
- 2 tbsp Simply Organic Gochugaru or McCormick Korean Chili Powder
Instructions
- 1
Step 1: Blanch 2 lbs pork neck bones in boiling water for 3 minutes, drain, and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove impurities—this creates a cleaner, clearer broth.
- 2
Step 2: In a large pot, add cleaned bones with 8 cups water, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tbsp soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes until bones are tender.
- 3
Step 3: Cut 4 medium russet potatoes into chunks and add to the broth. Continue simmering for 20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
- 4
Step 4: Stir in 2 tbsp Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru), 1 tsp sesame oil, and salt/pepper to taste. The broth should be rich, slightly spicy, and deeply savory.
- 5
Step 5: Serve hot in large bowls, garnish with fresh perilla leaves (or mint as substitute), chopped green onions, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Accompany with steamed rice and kimchi like Oh Jin-taek would.
