Authentic Korean Japchae

A delicious Korean stir-fried glass noodle dish with vegetables, beef, and sesame flavors. Japchae is a well-loved Korean dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors with chewy sweet potato glass noodles, tender beef, and a variety of colorful vegetables. Traditionally served on special occasions, this dish is both satisfying and packed with umami goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Korean Flavor – A perfect balance of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic gives this dish its signature taste.
• Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and fiber-rich glass noodles.
• Great for Meal Prep – Can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for leftovers.
• Naturally Gluten-Free – Sweet potato glass noodles (dangmyeon) are naturally gluten-free.
• Customizable – Easily switch up the protein or vegetables based on what you have.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Noodles and Protein:

• Sweet potato glass noodles (dangmyeon)
• Beef (ribeye or sirloin), thinly sliced
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Sugar
• Minced garlic

Vegetables & Add-ins:

• Spinach, blanched
• Red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• Carrot, julienned
• Shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• Onion, thinly sliced
• Egg, beaten and cooked into a thin omelet, then sliced
• Sesame seeds

Seasoning Sauce:

• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Sugar
• Minced garlic
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the noodles – Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions, drain, and rinse under cold water. Toss with a teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
2. Marinate the beef – In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and garlic. Add thinly sliced beef and marinate for 10 minutes.
3. Cook the beef – Heat a pan over medium-high heat and cook the beef until browned. Remove and set aside.
4. Stir-fry the vegetables – In the same pan, stir-fry the onion, carrots, mushrooms, and bell pepper until softened.
5. Combine everything – Add the spinach, cooked noodles, and beef to the pan.
6. Season the dish – Mix in soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, and black pepper, tossing everything together.
7. Garnish and serve – Remove from heat and top with sesame seeds and sliced omelet. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 2-3 servings
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegetarian Japchae – Swap beef for tofu or omit the protein altogether for a plant-based version.
• Spicy Japchae – Add a teaspoon of gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) or a drizzle of gochujang for heat.
• Seafood Japchae – Use shrimp or squid instead of beef for a seafood twist.
• Extra Crunchy – Add toasted almonds or cashews for more texture.
• Low-Sodium Option – Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the noodles can become mushy.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the noodles.

FAQs

What are Japchae noodles made of?

Japchae noodles are made from sweet potato starch, giving them a naturally chewy texture.

Can I make Japchae without meat?

Yes! Japchae is often made vegetarian by omitting the beef or substituting tofu.

Is Japchae traditionally served hot or cold?

Japchae can be served warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep.

What can I serve with Japchae?

It pairs well with kimchi, Korean BBQ, or a simple cucumber salad.

Can I use regular pasta instead of glass noodles?

Glass noodles are essential for authentic Japchae, but you can substitute with rice noodles in a pinch.

How do I prevent the noodles from sticking?

Rinse the cooked noodles with cold water and toss them with sesame oil to keep them from clumping.

Can I use a different type of mushroom?

Yes, button mushrooms, cremini, or oyster mushrooms work well in place of shiitake.

Is Japchae spicy?

Traditional Japchae is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes or gochujang for heat.

How do I make the egg omelet for Japchae?

Beat an egg, cook it in a thin layer in a nonstick pan, then slice into thin strips for garnish.

Can I prepare Japchae in advance?

Yes! Japchae tastes even better after the flavors meld. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Authentic Korean Japchae is a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying dish that showcases the best of Korean cuisine. With its chewy glass noodles, tender beef, and fresh vegetables, this stir-fried noodle dish is both comforting and easy to make. Try this recipe today and bring the taste of Korea to your table!