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Japchae (Korean Glass Noodle Stir-Fry)

Japchae (Korean Glass Noodle Stir-Fry)

A classic Korean celebration dish of chewy sweet potato noodles tossed with colorful vegetables, savory beef, and a sweet-savory soy sauce glaze. This home-friendly version delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors with a glossy, satisfying finish.

30 min prep · 20 min cook · medium

Servings
4
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Method

  1. 1

    In a medium bowl, combine the beef strips with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon sugar, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside to marinate while you prepare the vegetables.

  2. 2
    Boiling

    Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the dangmyeon noodles and cook according to package instructions until tender but still chewy (about 6-7 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

    7 min

  3. 3

    Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking. Drain well and set aside. Using kitchen scissors, cut the noodles into shorter lengths (about 6-8 inches) for easier eating.

  4. 4
    Stir-frying

    In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. When shimmering, add the marinated beef and stir-fry until just cooked through and lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer the beef to a bowl and set aside.

    3 min

  5. 5
    Stir-frying

    In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Add the spinach and a pinch of salt. Stir-fry until the spinach is wilted and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 1-2 minutes. Transfer the spinach to a plate and set aside.

    2 min

  6. 6
    Stir-frying

    In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Add the onion, carrot, and a pinch of salt. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until the onion is translucent and the carrot is slightly tender but still crisp.

    2 min

  7. 7
    Stir-frying

    Add the shiitake mushrooms and the white parts of the scallions to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes until the mushrooms are softened and lightly browned.

    2 min

  8. 8
    Sautéing

    Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the cooked noodles, beef, and spinach back to the skillet. Pour in the remaining 5 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1 teaspoon minced garlic (reserve the remaining garlic for later if not all used). Toss everything together with tongs until well combined and the noodles are evenly coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.

    3 min

  9. 9
    Sautéing

    Add the green parts of the scallions and toss once more. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or soy sauce if needed. Cook for another minute until the scallions are just wilted.

    1 min

  10. 10

    Transfer the japchae to a large serving platter. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds. Serve warm or at room temperature.