Description
Japchae is a classic Korean stir-fried noodle dish featuring tender sweet potato glass noodles tossed with savory beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar. This vibrant dish is both comforting and nutritious, perfect as a main course or a delightful side.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 2 lb thin-sliced beef (or substitute with chicken, tofu, or shrimp)
Noodles
- 1 lb Korean sweet potato noodles (glass noodles)
Vegetables
- 3 medium carrots, julienned
- 1 large white onion, thinly sliced
- ½ bunch green onions, chopped
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ lb spinach leaves
Oils & Sauces
- 4 tbsp sesame oil (divided)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Bring water to a boil in a large pot with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Add the sweet potato noodles and cook for 5-6 minutes until tender. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Cook the Beef: Heat a skillet over high heat and add the thinly sliced beef. Cook until browned and almost cooked through, stirring frequently. Season with half of the soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, and half of the brown sugar, stirring to coat the beef evenly. Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the julienned carrots and thinly sliced onions, sautéing until softened but still slightly crisp, about 4-5 minutes. Add the remaining soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, and the rest of the brown sugar. Stir in minced garlic and chopped green onions, cooking for an additional minute to release their aroma.
- Add the Spinach: Add the spinach leaves to the skillet with the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, until the spinach wilts down completely, about 2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, sautéed vegetables with spinach, and the cooked beef. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over the mixture. Toss all ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors and oils.
- Serve: Serve the Japchae warm. Optionally, garnish with extra chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Japchae is best enjoyed immediately but can be served at room temperature as well.
Notes
- Sweet potato noodles are also known as glass noodles or dangmyeon and are a key ingredient for authentic Japchae.
- Substitute beef with chicken, tofu, or shrimp for variety or dietary needs.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Do not overcook the noodles or vegetables to avoid sogginess; they should remain slightly chewy and crisp.
- Feel free to garnish with toasted sesame seeds or additional green onions for added flavor and presentation.
