Authentic Korean Japchae Noodles

Japchae (잡채) is one of Korea’s most loved dishes – a vibrant mix of sweet potato noodles, crisp vegetables, and a rich, savory-sweet sauce. Whether served hot or cold, with or without meat, Japchae brings a perfect balance of taste and texture that’s as comforting as it is festive. In this post, we’ll walk you through the authentic way to make Japchae at home – step by step, easy, and absolutely delicious!

At the core of this dish are the unique glass noodles made from sweet potato starch. These noodles are naturally gluten-free, slightly chewy, and perfect for soaking up the savory-sweet sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and a hint of sugar.

Ingredients (for 2–3 servings)

For the noodles:

• 150g Korean sweet potato noodles (dangmyeon)

For the sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1.5 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1 garlic clove, minced

For the stir-fry:

• 100g beef (ribeye or sirloin), thinly sliced (optional)
• ½ carrot, julienned
• ½ onion, sliced
• ½ red bell pepper, sliced
• ½ yellow bell pepper, sliced
• A handful of spinach
• 3–4 shiitake mushrooms or any mushrooms, sliced
• 1 egg (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for cooking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the sauce

In a small bowl, mix together:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1.5 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1 minced garlic clove

Set aside. This will be your flavor base.

Step 2: Cook the noodles

1. Bring a pot of water to boil.
2. Add the sweet potato noodles and cook for 6–7 minutes or until soft and chewy.
3. Drain, rinse under cold water, and cut them in half with scissors for easier eating.
4. Toss with 1 tsp sesame oil to keep them from sticking.

Step 3: Blanch the spinach

1. In boiling water, blanch spinach for 30 seconds.
2. Drain, rinse in cold water, squeeze gently to remove excess water.
3. Season with a pinch of salt and ½ tsp sesame oil. Set aside.

Step 4: Cook the beef (if using)

1. Heat 1 tsp oil in a pan.
2. Stir-fry beef until cooked through.
3. Season lightly with a spoon of the sauce.
4. Set aside.

See also: Cat Cora’s Halibut Recipe – A Simple & Delicious Seafood Delight

Step 5: Stir-fry vegetables

1. In the same pan, add a little more oil.
2. Stir-fry onions for 1–2 minutes.
3. Add carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms one by one, cooking each until just tender.
4. Lightly salt and pepper as needed.

See also: Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole Recipe – Easy, Cheesy & Comforting!

Step 6: (Optional) Egg garnish

1. Beat one egg, cook into a thin omelet.
2. Slice into thin strips for garnish.

Step 7: Combine everything

1. In a large mixing bowl or wok, add:
   • Cooked noodles
   • All stir-fried vegetables
   • Spinach
   • Beef
2. Pour the sauce over and toss everything gently with tongs or hands (wear gloves if hot).
3. Stir-fry the combined mixture for 2–3 minutes over medium heat to absorb flavor.

See also: Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe

Ingredient	Approximate Calories (per serving)	Notes
Sweet potato noodles	270–300 kcal	Main carb, chewy texture
Beef (if added)	250–280 kcal	Protein and fat source
Sesame oil	120 kcal	Adds rich, nutty flavor
Sugar	70–80 kcal	Sweetens the sauce

Summary

The Apple Cinnamon Swirl Loaf is a soft, moist, and flavorful bread made with chopped apples and a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl. It’s beginner-friendly, uses simple ingredients, and is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. The recipe involves making a buttery apple batter, layering it with cinnamon sugar, swirling for a beautiful pattern, and baking until golden. It can be enjoyed warm with butter, paired with tea or coffee, or stored for later.

FAQs about Authentic Korean Japchae Noodles