International Cuisine > Korean Cuisine > Noodle & Rice Dishes (Korean) > Japchae (Glass Noodles) Recipe

Classic Japchae (Korean Glass Noodle Stir-Fry)

Japchae is a beloved Korean dish featuring chewy glass noodles stir-fried with colorful vegetables and flavorful meat in a savory and slightly sweet sauce. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating an authentic and delicious Japchae at home. Make it for a special occasion or a delightful weeknight meal!

Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 200 g Korean Glass Noodles (Dangmyeon)
  • 150 g Beef Sirloin (thinly sliced)
  • 1 medium Carrots
  • 1/2 medium Onion
  • 6 Shiitake Mushrooms (fresh or dried)
  • 150 g Spinach
  • 1/2 Red Bell Pepper
  • 2 Green Onions
  • 4 tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Sugar
  • 3 tbsp Sesame Oil
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil

Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by soaking the dried shiitake mushrooms in warm water for at least 30 minutes, or until softened. If using fresh shiitake mushrooms, simply wipe them clean and slice. While the mushrooms are soaking, prepare the other vegetables. Julienne the carrots, onion, and red bell pepper. Trim and roughly chop the spinach. Slice the green onions diagonally. Marinate the thinly sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Set aside.

Cooking the Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the glass noodles and cook according to package directions (usually 6-8 minutes), or until they are translucent and chewy. Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Cut the noodles into shorter lengths with scissors for easier eating. In a bowl, toss the cooked noodles with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 1/2 tablespoon of sugar. This will prevent them from sticking together and add flavor.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables and Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the marinated beef until it is cooked through. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside. Add another tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Stir-fry the carrots and onion until they are slightly softened. Add the shiitake mushrooms and red bell pepper and continue to stir-fry for a few more minutes. Add the spinach and cook until it wilts. Add the cooked beef back to the wok with the vegetables.

Combining Everything

Add the cooked noodles to the wok with the vegetables and beef. Pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of sugar, and minced garlic. Stir-fry everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and all the ingredients are well combined.

Final Touches

Remove the Japchae from the heat and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: Approximately 150-200 kcal
Carbohydrates: 25-35g
Protein: 5-7g
Fat: 4-6g
Note: These values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

Japchae can be a relatively high-carbohydrate dish due to the glass noodles. Consider using less noodles and more vegetables to increase the fiber content and lower the overall carbohydrate load. Adjust the amount of sugar and soy sauce according to your dietary needs to control sodium and sugar intake. Adding more protein, such as tofu or extra beef, can make the dish more balanced.

← Classic Cabbage Kimchi (Baechu Kimchi) Classic Korean Bulgogi →

FAQ

  • Can I use different vegetables?

    Yes, you can customize the vegetables to your liking. Some other great options include zucchini, bean sprouts, and chives.
  • Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?

    Absolutely! Omit the beef and use tofu or additional vegetables instead. Ensure your soy sauce is vegan if necessary.
  • How long does Japchae last in the refrigerator?

    Japchae is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.