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Korean Japchae Recipe

Let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorite meals, ever, Japchae. Also known as Chapchae, Jabchae, Chapche, and Japche, depending on what part of the world you are in, this Korean staple recipe was my first introduction to Korean cuisine that made me fall all the way in love. Our Korean Japchae Recipe is made with sweet potato glass noodles, fresh vegetables, and a simple sweet and salty sauce, this dish is approachable, delicious, and easy to love, even if you’ve never tried Korean food before.

Korean Japchae Recipe

Japchae, a staple in Korean cuisine, is celebrated for its unique texture and taste. This dish combines glass noodles made from sweet potato starch with a variety of vegetables and a savory sauce, resulting in a satisfying and versatile dish. It can be served as a main course or a side dish, making it perfect for any meal.

This recipe is vegetarian, but we often add protein to the dish to round it out. I really like adding shrimp, but thinly sliced chicken and pork also works really well.

Why you’ll love this dish…

  • Nutritious and Colorful: Packed with vegetables, this dish is as nutritious as it is visually appealing.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or a side dish to complement any meal.
  • Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of sweet, savory, and umami flavors makes every bite satisfying.
  • Easy to Customize: Easily adjust the vegetables or sauce ingredients to suit your taste.

Korean Pork Tenderloin

Japchae

Korean Japchae shopping list

Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

  • Avocado Oil
  • Sesame Oil
  • Korean Glass Noodles
  • Red Bell Pepper, sliced
  • Shiitake Mushrooms, sliced
  • Yellow Onion, sliced
  • Matchstick Carrots
  • Korean Sweet Soy Sauce
  • Soy Sauce
  • Mirin

Korean Ground Beef Bowl

Japchae

How to make Japchae

Wondering what you’re getting yourself into when you make this dish? Here’s a quick overview of the process! Make sure you follow the instructions at the recipe card at the bottom of the post while you’re cooking.

  • Noodle Prep
    Boil Korean glass noodles as per the package directions, then rinse in cool water and set aside.
  • Sauce
    Combine Korean sweet soy sauce, soy sauce, mirin, and sesame oil in a bowl and set aside.
  • Stir Fry
    Heat avocado oil and sesame oil in a wok, and stir-fry the vegetables until tender yet crisp.
  • Combine
    Add the drained noodles to the pan along with the remaining oils, stir-frying briefly before incorporating the sauce.
  • Enjoy
    Continue stir-frying until the noodles absorb the sauce and the dish is heated through.

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Japchae

Japchae FAQ

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I reheat Japchae?

Yes, gently reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a little water or oil to prevent drying out.

Can I prepare Japchae in advance?

Yup! This dish reheats really well, and is a great recipe to make in advance. It can also be served cold.

Quick Cucumber Kimchi

Japchae

Serve this with…

Japchae

This Korean Japchae recipe offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that are sure to please any palate. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to include your favorite vegetables, making it perfect for a family meal or a special occasion. With its easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you’ll find joy in both the preparation and the eating of this nutritious and colorful dish. Enjoy the harmony of sweet and savory flavors in this beloved Korean classic.

More great Korean-inspired recipes to love!

My Favorite Banchan (Korean side dishes)

Japchae
Japchae

Japchae

This incredibly flavorful Korean dish is made with sweet potato glass noodles, fresh vegetables, and sweet soy sauce for a delicious side that can easily be made into a main!
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: homemade
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Or Whatever You Do

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 7 ounces Korean glass noodles
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 10 medium shiitake mushrooms sliced
  • 1 medium yellow onion sliced
  • 1 cup matchstick carrots

Sauce

Instructions

  • Put a pot of water on to boil. Place the noodles in the pot, stir frequently, and boil according to package directions. Rinse in cool water when done.
  • While the pasta water is coming to a boil, prep your other ingredients and mix up the sauce in a separate bowl and set aside.
  • In a large wok or non-stick skillet, put 1 tablespoon of oil and 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil into the pan over high heat.
  • Stir fry the bell pepper, mushrooms, onions, and carrots until they are tender and crisp.
  • Add the drained glass noodles to the pan along with the remaining avocado oil and sesame oil. Stir fry for 1-2 minutes until hot, and then add in the sauce. Continue stirring until the liquid is absorbed into the noodles.

Notes

You can add protein to this dish to make it a meal. I love adding shrimp or prawns, but thinly sliced chicken, steak, or pork tenderloin are also great options.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 248kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 669mgFiber: 4gSugar: 14g
Nicole Johnson
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Nicole Johnson, a self-taught expert in grilling and outdoor cooking, launched Or Whatever You Do in 2010. Her blog, renowned for its comprehensive and creative outdoor cooking recipes, has garnered a vast audience of millions. Nicole's hands-on experience and passion for grilling shine through her work. Her husband, Jeremiah Johnson, also plays a pivotal role in recipe development, adding his culinary flair to the mix. Together, they form a dynamic duo, offering a rich and varied outdoor cooking experience to their followers.