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Japchae

Featured in Simple Beef Recipes.

Japchae is a beloved Korean dish that centers around sweet potato glass noodles, known for their distinctive chewy texture and subtle sweetness. This one-hour recipe combines these translucent noodles with tender slices of beef and crisp, colorful vegetables including carrots, onions, and spinach. What makes this dish special is its perfectly balanced flavor profile - the savory depth from soy sauce harmonizes with the nutty richness of sesame oil and gentle sweetness of brown sugar. The combination creates a dish that's both satisfying and light. While traditionally made with beef, Japchae welcomes customization with chicken, tofu, or shrimp, making it adaptable to different dietary preferences. The contrast of textures between the springy noodles, tender meat, and fresh vegetables makes each bite interesting and gratifying.
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Mina cooking in her kitchen
Updated on Thu, 27 Feb 2025 18:54:32 GMT
A bowl of noodles with meat and vegetables. Pin it
A bowl of noodles with meat and vegetables. | lastminrecipes.com

The first time I tasted japchae at a Korean friend's home, I was captivated by the unique texture of the glistening, slightly sweet noodles and the colorful medley of vegetables and beef. This beloved dish has become my go-to for potlucks and family gatherings, where it never fails to draw curious questions and delighted expressions after the first bite.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

  • Korean Sweet Potato Noodles (Dangmyeon): These translucent noodles provide the signature chewy texture. Available at Korean or Asian grocery stores, they are essential to authentic japchae.
  • Thinly Sliced Beef: Ribeye or sirloin works best. For convenience, many Asian markets sell pre-sliced beef for bulgogi.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Carrots for sweetness and crunch, spinach for earthiness, onions for depth, and green onions for a fresh contrast.
  • Sesame Oil: A key flavor component; look for toasted sesame oil with a deep amber color and nutty aroma.
  • Soy Sauce: A high-quality, naturally brewed Korean or Japanese soy sauce enhances the umami flavor.
A bowl of noodles with meat and vegetables. Pin it
A bowl of noodles with meat and vegetables. | lastminrecipes.com

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Noodles
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Boil 1 pound of sweet potato noodles for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain and rinse under cold running water. Toss with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to prevent clumping.
Marinating and Cooking the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine 2 pounds of thinly sliced beef with 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 1½ tablespoons of brown sugar. Marinate while prepping vegetables. Heat a large skillet over high heat, then cook the beef in batches for 2-3 minutes until just cooked through. Set aside with juices.
Cooking the Vegetables
Wipe the skillet clean and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir-fry 1 julienned carrot and 1 sliced onion for 3-4 minutes. Add 6 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, and 1½ tablespoons of brown sugar. Finally, add 3 sliced green onions and stir for another minute.
Cooking the Spinach
Add ½ pound of fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until just wilted, about 30-45 seconds. Remove from heat immediately to maintain texture.
Combining Everything
In a large bowl, toss together the cooked noodles, beef, and vegetables. Use tongs to gently combine. If needed, drizzle an additional tablespoon of sesame oil for moisture. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

The Joy of Adaptations

  • Mushroom Variation: Add shiitake or oyster mushrooms for extra depth.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with extra mushrooms or pan-fried tofu.
  • Lower Carb: Reduce noodles and double the vegetables.
  • Summer Japchae: Serve chilled over crisp lettuce for a refreshing dish.

You Must Know

  • Don't overcook the noodles—they should remain chewy.
  • Cook vegetables separately to maintain texture and vibrant color.
  • The dish improves in flavor after resting, making it ideal for meal prep.
  • Noodles absorb sauce over time—add a drizzle of sesame oil before serving leftovers.

Chef’s Essential Tips

  • Perfectly chewy noodles: After rinsing, snip the noodles with kitchen shears into shorter, more manageable lengths.
  • Flavor booster: Toss a tablespoon of the reserved beef juices with the noodles for extra depth.
  • Uniform slicing: Cut all vegetables in similar shapes for even cooking and a balanced presentation.
  • Make-ahead strategy: Prepare japchae a few hours before serving to allow flavors to meld. Toss with fresh sesame oil before serving.

Japchae is more than just a dish—it represents harmony in Korean cuisine, blending flavors and textures into something truly special. Whether you're making it for a celebration or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe brings together tradition and adaptability in every bite.

A bowl of noodles with meat and vegetables, including carrots and onions, sits on a table. Pin it
A bowl of noodles with meat and vegetables, including carrots and onions, sits on a table. | lastminrecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Where can I find Korean sweet potato noodles?
Korean sweet potato noodles (dangmyeon) can be found in Asian grocery stores, international food sections of larger supermarkets, or online. They're sometimes labeled as glass noodles or cellophane noodles.
→ Can I make Japchae vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also add tofu for protein.
→ How do I store leftover Japchae?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water or briefly in the microwave.
→ Why are my sweet potato noodles too sticky?
Rinse the noodles with cold water after cooking and toss with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking. Don't overcook them - they should be chewy, not mushy.
→ Can I make Japchae ahead of time?
Yes, Japchae tastes great even after being refrigerated. Make it a day ahead and reheat gently for gatherings or meal prep.

Japchae

A traditional Korean stir-fry featuring chewy sweet potato glass noodles, beef, and vegetables in a savory-sweet sauce of soy sauce and sesame oil.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
60 Minutes
By: Mina

Category: Beef

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Korean

Yield: 10 Servings (10 servings)

Dietary: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 2 lb thin-sliced beef (or sub with chicken, tofu, or shrimp)
02 1 lb Korean sweet potato noodles (glass noodles)
03 3 medium carrots, julienned
04 1 large white onion, thinly sliced
05 1/2 bunch green onions, chopped
06 6 garlic cloves, minced
07 1/2 lb spinach leaves

→ Sauce & Seasonings

08 4 tbsp sesame oil (divided)
09 1 tbsp olive oil
10 6 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
11 3 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

Step 01

Bring water to a boil in a large pot with a drizzle of olive oil. Add sweet potato noodles and cook for 5-6 minutes, then drain and set aside.

Step 02

In a skillet over high heat, cook beef until browned, seasoning with half the soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar while cooking. Set aside.

Step 03

In another skillet, heat olive oil, then add julienned carrots and onion, cooking until softened. Add the remaining soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar. Mix in garlic and green onions and cook for another minute.

Step 04

Add spinach, stir until wilted, then add all veggies and beef to the noodles.

Step 05

Toss all ingredients well in a large bowl. Serve warm and garnish with extra green onions if desired.

Notes

  1. Japchae is a traditional Korean dish made with sweet potato glass noodles, known for their uniquely chewy texture and lightly sweet flavor
  2. This dish can be customized by substituting the beef with chicken, tofu, or shrimp to suit dietary preferences

Tools You'll Need

  • Large pot for boiling noodles
  • Skillet or wok
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Colander

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains soy (soy sauce)
  • May contain gluten (unless using tamari)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 489
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~