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Japchae

Delicious Japchae: A Sweet & Savory Korean Noodle Delight

Japchae is a delicious Korean glass noodle stir fry that beautifully combines sweet and savory flavors.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Noodles
  • 8 ounces Sweet Potato Glass Noodles Can be replaced with other noodles, but texture will differ.
For the Protein (Optional)
  • 8 ounces Beef or Pork Can be omitted for a vegetarian option or replaced with tofu.
For the Egg Crepe
  • 2 Eggs Omit for vegan versions.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 Carrot Use any hearty vegetable.
  • 1 Yellow Onion Shallots or leeks can be used.
  • 8 ounces Mushrooms Use any available variety.
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Kale or bok choy are suitable alternatives.
  • 2 Green Onion Chives or leeks can be considered.
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Oil Canola or sesame oil for a nutty taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Seeds Omit if not available.
For the Japchae Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Light Sodium Soy Sauce Tamari for gluten-free or low-sodium options.
  • 2 tablespoons Honey More brown sugar can be used for a vegan alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar White sugar can be used instead.
  • 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Oil Can be omitted for a lighter taste.

Equipment

  • nonstick skillet
  • Medium bowl
  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Japchae
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together light sodium soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, and toasted sesame oil until fully combined and smooth.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding sweet potato glass noodles and cooking for 10-15 minutes or until they are just tender but still chewy. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a nonstick skillet, pour in the beaten eggs to create a thin layer. Cook for about 2 minutes until the edges lift, then flip and cook for another minute. Cool and slice into strips.
  4. In the same skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat, season your protein with salt and pepper, and sear for 4-5 minutes until browned. Set aside.
  5. Return the skillet to heat, add a bit more oil, and cook julienned carrots and chopped onions for about 3 minutes. Then add mushrooms and baby spinach, cooking until tender.
  6. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the vegetables, then toss in the cooked noodles. Cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well mixed.
  7. Transfer the japchae to a serving dish, garnish with sliced egg crepe and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavors. Noodle care and protein prep tips provided in the article can enhance your dish.

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