Description
Japchae is a classic Korean dish featuring sweet potato glass noodles stir-fried with tender beef and a colorful mix of sautéed vegetables, all balanced with a savory-sweet soy and sesame oil sauce. This dish is vibrant, flavorful, and perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal that serves 4 to 4 people.
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. Add the sweet potato noodles and cook for 5-6 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Beef: Heat a skillet over high heat and cook the thinly sliced beef until browned and cooked through. Season with half of the soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar while cooking to infuse flavor. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In another skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add julienned carrots and sliced onions, cooking until softened and slightly caramelized. Stir in the remaining soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar for seasoning. Add minced garlic and chopped green onions, cooking for an additional minute to release their aroma.
- Add the Spinach: Toss in the spinach leaves and stir continuously until they wilt down and integrate into the vegetable mixture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, sautéed vegetables, and cooked beef. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure the flavors blend and the dish is evenly coated with the savory sauce.
- Serve: Serve the Japchae warm, optionally garnished with extra chopped green onions for freshness and added flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute beef with chicken, tofu, or shrimp for different protein options.
- Using tamari instead of soy sauce makes this dish gluten-free.
- Be careful not to overcook the glass noodles, as they can become mushy.
- For a more vibrant presentation, you can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Traditionally, japchae is served at room temperature or warm.
