Japchae (Korean Stir-Fried Glass Noodles with Beef & Vegetables)
Japchae is a classic Korean stir-fried noodle dish made with chewy sweet potato starch noodles, thinly sliced beef, and colorful vegetables, all tossed in a perfectly balanced sweet-savory sesame soy sauce. Traditionally served during holidays and special occasions, japchae is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round.
Ingredients
For the sauce:
- 3 ½ tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 tbsp sugar adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tsp minced garlic
For the noodles:
- 5 cups water
- 8 oz Korean sweet potato starch noodles dangmyeon
For the stir-fry:
- ½ tbsp cooking oil
- ½ medium onion sliced
- 1 medium carrot julienned (2-inch pieces)
- 2 scallions cut into 2-inch pieces, halved lengthwise
- 4 oz mushrooms adjust to preference
- 4 oz beef tender, lean cut, cut into thin strips
- 2 tbsp of the prepared sauce
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Prepare the sauce:
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, sesame seeds, black pepper, and minced garlic. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.
Cook the noodles:
- Bring 5 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the sweet potato starch noodles and cook for about 6 minutes, or until soft (not al dente).
- Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Toss with 3 tbsp of the prepared sauce and set aside.
Blanch the spinach:
- Boil 2 cups of water in the same pan.
- Add salt, then blanch the spinach until wilted.
- Quickly transfer to cold water, drain, squeeze out excess moisture, and roughly chop.
- Lightly season with salt.
Stir-fry the ingredients:
- Heat ½ tbsp of oil in the same pan.
- Stir-fry carrots for a minute, then add onions and scallions, cooking until softened. Transfer to a bowl.
- In the same pan, stir-fry the beef and mushrooms together with 2 tbsp of the prepared sauce until fully cooked.
Combine everything:
- Add the cooked beef, mushrooms, stir-fried vegetables, and spinach to the seasoned noodles.
- Pour in the remaining sauce and mix everything well, ensuring all ingredients are coated evenly.
Taste and adjust:
- Try a bite and adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce, sugar, or sesame oil if needed.
Serve & enjoy:
- Japchae is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Enjoy this flavorful, chewy noodle dish!
Video
Notes
Health Benefits of Japchae
- Rich in Antioxidants – Vegetables like carrots, onions, and spinach provide essential vitamins (A, C, and K) and antioxidants that support immune function and reduce inflammation.
- Good Source of Protein – Lean beef contributes high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Gluten-Free Alternative – Made with sweet potato starch noodles (dangmyeon), japchae is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Supports Heart Health – Sesame oil and seeds contain healthy fats and antioxidants that may help lower cholesterol and improve heart health.
- Boosts Energy Levels – The combination of carbohydrates from the noodles and protein from the beef provides sustained energy, making it a satisfying meal.
- Aids Digestion – Fiber-rich vegetables and garlic promote gut health and aid digestion, helping to maintain a healthy digestive system.
- Low in Saturated Fat – Using lean beef and minimal oil keeps this dish heart-friendly and lower in unhealthy fats.
- Balanced Macronutrients – Japchae includes a well-balanced mix of carbs, proteins, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious and complete meal.