Authentic Korean Japchae Noodles Recipe
If you love Korean food or are curious to try something new, Japchae (잡채) is a must! It’s a flavorful stir-fried glass noodle dish made with sweet potato starch noodles, colorful vegetables, and a sweet-savory soy-based sauce. Whether served hot or cold, Japchae is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or lunchboxes.
Let’s learn how to make this beautiful and delicious Korean dish at home—step by step!
What is Japchae?
Japchae is a traditional Korean dish originally served on royal occasions. The chewy, translucent noodles are made from sweet potato starch. Combined with vibrant vegetables, mushrooms, and soy sauce, Japchae is savory, slightly sweet, and full of umami.
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Sweet potato noodles | 200g |
| Spinach | 100g |
| Carrot (julienned) | 1 medium |
| Onion (sliced thin) | 1 medium |
| Shiitake or button mushrooms (sliced) | 100g |
| Bell pepper (red/yellow, optional) | ½ cup |
| Egg (optional for garnish) | 1 |
| Sesame oil | 2 tbsp |
| Soy sauce | 4 tbsp |
| Sugar | 1.5 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Cooking oil | As needed |
| Sesame seeds | For garnish |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
See also: Strawberry Shortcake Tacos Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Boil water and add the sweet potato noodles.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes until soft and chewy.
- Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Cut the noodles with scissors (optional) and toss them with 1 tbsp sesame oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Vegetables
- Spinach: Blanch spinach in hot water for 30 seconds, rinse in cold water, squeeze excess water, and chop roughly. Add a little salt and set aside.
- Carrots & Onion: Stir-fry with a little oil until soft (about 2–3 minutes).
- Mushrooms: Stir-fry until browned.
- Bell Pepper: Cook lightly for 1–2 minutes to keep it crunchy.
Step 3: (Optional) Make the Egg Garnish
- Beat 1 egg with a pinch of salt.
- Fry in a pan into a thin sheet.
- Let cool and cut into thin strips.
See also: Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe
Step 4: Mix Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together:
- 4 tbsp soy sauce
- 1.5 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- Black pepper (to taste)
See also: Kimchi Fried Rice
Step 5: Combine Everything
- In a large bowl or pan, mix the cooked noodles with sauce.
- Add all vegetables and mix well.
- Toss in egg strips and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
See also: Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Perfect as a main dish or a side dish.
- Great for vegetarians (skip egg if vegan).
- Can add beef or chicken if desired.
Summary
Japchae is a classic Korean noodle dish made with sweet potato starch noodles (dangmyeon), colorful vegetables, mushrooms, and a sweet-savory soy sauce. It’s loved for its chewy texture, vibrant look, and balanced flavor. The noodles are boiled, stir-fried with veggies, and mixed with a garlic-soy-sesame sauce. Optional egg strips and sesame seeds add extra flavor and beauty. Japchae is easy to make, healthy, gluten-free, and perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. Serve it warm or cold—it’s always delicious!
FAQs about Authentic Korean Japchae Noodles
Can I use regular noodles?
Yes, but sweet potato noodles give the authentic chewy texture.
Is Japchae spicy?
No, it’s mildly sweet and savory—add chili if you like it hot.
How long does Japchae last?
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, best eaten fresh.
Can I add meat?
Yes, beef or chicken strips are commonly added for protein.
Is Japchae served hot or cold?
Both! It’s delicious warm or at room temperature.
