Description
Japchae is a beloved Korean dish that showcases the unique texture of sweet potato glass noodles, also known as “dangmyeon.” With its delightful chewiness and naturally sweet flavor, this dish is a perfect choice for any occasion—from family dinners to gatherings with friends. Packed with vibrant vegetables and your choice of protein, Japchae is not only nutritious but also incredibly customizable to suit individual tastes. Whether you prefer chicken, tofu, or a medley of colorful veggies, this recipe is sure to impress. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, Japchae is a comforting meal that brings everyone together around the table.
Ingredients
- 2 lb thin-sliced beef (or substitute with chicken or tofu)
- 1 lb Korean sweet potato noodles
- 3 medium carrots, julienned
- 1 large white onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 bunch green onions, chopped
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 lb spinach leaves
- 4 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Boil water in a large pot with a drizzle of olive oil. Add sweet potato noodles and cook for 5–6 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over high heat, brown the beef. Season with half of the soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar. Set aside when cooked through.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: Heat olive oil in another skillet over medium-high heat. Add julienned carrots and onions; cook until softened. Stir in remaining soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, and green onions; cook for another minute.
- Combine Ingredients: Add spinach to the vegetable mixture and stir until wilted. Combine all vegetables with cooked beef in a large mixing bowl.
- Toss Everything Together: Add cooked noodles to the mixing bowl with beef and vegetables. Toss well until evenly coated and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 489
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For added crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preference or seasonality—bell peppers or mushrooms are great additions. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste.