Japchae Recipe: Savory Korean Stir-Fried Glass Noodles
Discover the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine with this Japchae recipe. Japchae, a beloved Korean dish, features sweet potato starch noodles stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and a savory-sweet sauce. This colorful and delicious dish is perfect for special occasions or a delightful meal at home.
Ingredients for Japchae
- 4 ounces beef (filet mignon or pork shoulder), cut into strips
- 2 large dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and cut into strips
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 large egg
- 4 ounces spinach, washed and drained
- 4 ounces dangmyeon (sweet potato starch noodles)
- 2 to 3 green onions, cut into pieces
- 1 medium onion, sliced thinly
- 4 to 5 white mushrooms, sliced thinly
- 1 medium carrot, cut into matchsticks
- ½ red bell pepper, cut into thin strips (optional)
- Ground black pepper
- Kosher salt
- Vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Directions for Making Japchae
Marinate the Beef and Mushrooms
- Mix beef and shiitake mushrooms with 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon sugar, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, 2 teaspoons soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil. Cover and refrigerate.
Prepare the Egg Garnish
- Separate egg yolk and white. Beat the yolk with a pinch of salt. Cook in a lightly oiled nonstick pan on low heat, flipping once. Slice into thin strips.
Prepare the Noodles and Vegetables
- Blanch spinach in boiling water for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Rinse in cold water, squeeze out excess water, and mix with 1 teaspoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil.
- Cook noodles in boiling water for 8 minutes. Strain, cut, and mix with 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon sugar.
- Stir-fry onions and green onions in 2 teaspoons vegetable oil with a pinch of salt for 2 minutes. Transfer to noodle bowl.
- Stir-fry white mushrooms in 2 teaspoons vegetable oil with a pinch of salt for 2 minutes. Transfer to noodle bowl.
- Stir-fry carrot for 20 seconds, then add red bell pepper and stir-fry for another 20 seconds. Transfer to noodle bowl.
- Stir-fry beef and mushroom mixture until beef is no longer pink. Transfer to noodle bowl.
Mix and Serve
- Add 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sugar, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, and 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil to the noodle bowl. Mix well by hand. Garnish with egg strips and sesame seeds. Serve on a large plate.
Serving Suggestions
Japchae is best enjoyed fresh, but it also makes an excellent dish for potlucks or family gatherings. Pair it with kimchi or other Korean side dishes for a complete meal.
The Story Behind Japchae
Japchae, meaning “mixed vegetables,” is a classic Korean dish originally created for royal banquets. Over time, it has become a staple in Korean households and a popular dish for celebrations. The combination of chewy noodles, colorful vegetables, and savory-sweet flavors embodies the harmony and balance central to Korean cuisine. Whether for a special occasion or a delightful meal, Japchae brings a touch of Korean tradition to your table.