If you’re looking for a vibrant, healthy, and satisfying meal, Japchae is the perfect dish.
This classic Korean stir-fry features sweet potato noodles (dangmyeon) tossed with a colorful array of vegetables, a flavorful sauce, and topped with thin strips of egg.
It’s a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors, making it a delightful option for lunch, dinner, or even as a side dish at gatherings.
Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with vegetables, making it a wholesome meal option.
What is Japchae?
Japchae is a traditional Korean noodle dish that’s often served during celebrations or special occasions.
Nowadays, it’s enjoyed both as a main dish or a side dish in everyday meals as well.
The chewy texture of sweet potato noodles, also known as glass noodles, paired with a savory soy-based sauce and stir-fried vegetables, makes this dish irresistible.
It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious stir-fry that’s both light and filling.
Why Japchae Is a Healthy Choice:
Japchae isn’t just delicious; it’s also a healthy meal option. The sweet potato noodles are lower in calories compared to traditional wheat noodles, and they offer a chewy, satisfying texture.
Plus, the dish is packed with nutrient-rich vegetables like spinach, carrots, and bell peppers. These veggies provide essential vitamins, such as Vitamin C and A, along with dietary fiber.
- Spinach: A powerhouse of iron, calcium, and vitamins.
- Shiitake Mushrooms: Known for their immune-boosting properties.
- Carrots: A great source of beta-carotene, promoting healthy vision.
- Eggs: Adding protein and essential amino acids to round out the meal.
How to make Japchae?
1. Cook the Sweet Potato Noodles:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the sweet potato noodles and cook them according to the package instructions (about 6-7 minutes). Once the noodles are cooked, drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside.
2. Prepare the Eggs:
In a small non-stick pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Beat the eggs and pour them into the pan, cooking until they form a thin omelet. Remove from the pan, roll up the omelet, and slice it into thin strips. Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the onions, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Next, add the shiitake mushrooms and cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender. Finally, add the spinach and stir-fry until it wilts down, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. This sweet-savory sauce will coat the noodles and bring the whole dish together.
5. Mix Everything Together:
Add the cooked sweet potato noodles to the pan with the stir-fried vegetables. Pour the sauce over the noodles and vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Toss the noodles for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve:
Remove the Japchae from heat and transfer it to a serving platter. Top with the thin strips of omelet and sprinkle some sesame seeds for garnish. Serve hot or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Tips for perfect Japchae:
- Noodle Texture: Make sure to rinse the noodles with cold water after boiling to keep them from getting too sticky.
- Customize Your Protein: Feel free to use any protein you like such as tofu or beef.
- Balance the Flavors: Adjust the sauce to your liking by adding more soy sauce for saltiness or honey for sweetness.
FAQ:
What are sweet potato noodles?
Sweet potato noodles, also known as dangmyeon, are made from sweet potato starch and have a chewy, transparent texture once cooked. They are gluten-free and commonly used in Korean cuisine, especially for dishes like Japchae.
Can I make Japchae ahead of time?
Yes, Japchae can be made ahead of time. In fact, many people say it tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. If preparing in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge and gently reheat before serving.
Is Japchae gluten-free?
Yes, sweet potato noodles are naturally gluten-free. However, if you have dietary restrictions, ensure that you use gluten-free soy sauce, as traditional soy sauce often contains wheat.
Japchae (Korean Stir Fried Glass Noodles)
Ingredients Â
Main Ingredients:
- Sweet potato noodles (dangmyeon)
- 1 Large Onion
- 1 1/2 Bell peppers 2 different colors
- 3 cups Spinach
- 1 Large carrot julienned
- 5 Shiitake Mushrooms thinly sliced
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 Eggs beaten
- Sesame seeds for garnish
For the Sauce:
- 6 tbsp light soy sauce
- 3 tbsp Honey
- 2 tbsp Sesame Oil
InstructionsÂ
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the sweet potato noodles according to the package instructions (usually about 6-7 minutes).Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
- Heat a small non-stick pan and add a little oil.Beat the eggs and cook them as a thin omelet. Once cooked, remove from the pan and slice into thin strips. Set aside.
- In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tbsp of sesame oil over medium heat.Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.Add the onions, carrots, and peppers, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.Add the shiitake mushrooms and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.Add the spinach and cook until it wilts down, about 1-2 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the 6 tbsp light soy sauce, 3 tbsp honey, and 1 tbsp of sesame oil.
- Add the cooked noodles to the vegetable mixture in the pan.Pour the sauce over the noodles and vegetables, tossing everything together so the noodles are evenly coated.Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Remove from heat and place the Japchae on a serving platter.Top with the thinly sliced egg strips.Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.