Japchae (Korean Glass Noodle Stir-Fry) Recipe

Japchae is a classic Korean dish made with sweet potato glass noodles, stir-fried vegetables, and savory-sweet sauce. Traditionally enjoyed during celebrations and family gatherings, Japchae is colorful, flavorful, and perfect as both a main dish or a side dish.

Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

• 200g (7 oz) sweet potato starch noodles (dangmyeon)
• 100g (3.5 oz) beef (ribeye or flank steak), thinly sliced
• ½ onion, thinly sliced
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 100g (3.5 oz) spinach
• 4–5 shiitake mushrooms (or button mushrooms), sliced
• 1 egg (for garnish, optional: cooked into a thin omelet and sliced into strips)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the noodles

• Boil the sweet potato noodles according to package instructions (about 6–7 minutes).
• Drain, rinse under cold water, and cut into shorter lengths (about 6–7 inches). Toss with 1 tsp sesame oil to prevent sticking.

2. Blanch spinach

• Boil spinach briefly (30 seconds), rinse in cold water, and squeeze out excess water. Season lightly with a pinch of salt and sesame oil.

3. Stir-fry vegetables & beef

• In a pan, sauté onion, carrot, and bell peppers with a little oil until slightly softened.
• Stir-fry mushrooms separately until tender.
• Cook beef with garlic, soy sauce, and a pinch of pepper until browned.

4. Combine everything

• In a large mixing bowl, combine noodles, spinach, vegetables, and beef.
• Add soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and sesame seeds. Toss well to coat evenly.

5. Optional garnish

• Add egg strips on top for a festive look.

Serving Tips

• Japchae can be served warm or at room temperature.
• Pair it with other Korean dishes like Kimchi, Bulgogi, or simply steamed rice.
• For a vegetarian version, skip the beef and add extra mushrooms or tofu.

✨ Pro Tip: Balance is key. Japchae tastes best when the noodles are chewy, the vegetables crisp, and the seasoning slightly sweet and savory. Adjust soy sauce and sugar to your preference.