Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Korean cuisine with Japchae, a vibrant dish of stir-fried glass noodles intertwined with an array of colorful vegetables, tender protein, and a sweet-savory sauce. This beloved Korean dish, also known as "glass noodle stir-fry," is a symphony of flavors and textures, offering a delightful balance of chewy noodles, crisp vegetables, and succulent protein. Japchae is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course, a side dish, or even as a filling for traditional Korean rice cakes called tteokbokki. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information and step-by-step instructions to create an authentic and delicious Japchae that will tantalize your taste buds. From selecting the finest ingredients to mastering the art of stir-frying, we've got you covered. So, gather your ingredients, prepare your wok, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Seoul.
**Additional Information:**
- This article features three variations of Japchae recipes: a classic vegetarian version, a beef Japchae, and a seafood Japchae.
- Each recipe includes a detailed ingredient list, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to ensure success in the kitchen.
- The article also provides insights into the cultural significance of Japchae in Korean cuisine and its popularity as a dish served during special occasions and holidays.
- Additionally, the article offers suggestions for serving Japchae as a main course, side dish, or filling for Korean rice cakes, providing readers with versatile options to enjoy this delectable dish.
SPRING VEGETABLE JAPCHAE (KOREAN GLASS NOODLES)
Japchae is a savory Korean stir-fry with mixed vegetables, beef and sweet potato noodles. Also known as glass noodles, sweet potato noodles can be found in Asian markets; once cooked, the noodles turn translucent, light and chewy. (They are also wheat-free, so they are a great option for those avoiding gluten.) The noodles are cooked first, then sit in the sauce, absorbing all of the garlicky sesame and soy flavors like a sponge. This springtime japchae celebrates crisp asparagus and snap peas. Japchae can be made a few hours ahead and served at room temperature, making it the perfect dish for potlucks and picnics.
Provided by Kay Chun
Categories dinner, lunch, noodles, vegetables, main course, side dish
Time 30m
Yield 4 servings
Number Of Ingredients 15
Steps:
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, garlic, sugar, sesame oil and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
- In a large pot of boiling water, cook noodles until tender and translucent, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a colander and run under cold water to stop the cooking. Drain well and transfer to a large bowl. Add half of the sauce (about 3 tablespoons) and toss to evenly coat.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons safflower oil over medium. Add onion and carrots, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add mushrooms and half the remaining sauce (about 1 1/2 tablespoons) and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly golden, about 3 minutes. Transfer the mixture to the bowl with the noodles.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon safflower oil and the bell pepper to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, for 2 minutes. Add snap peas and asparagus, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Add the spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted, 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer the mixture into the bowl with the noodles. Add the remaining sauce and toss until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Divide japchae among bowls and garnish with sesame seeds. Serve warm or at room temperature.
VEGAN JAPCHAE KOREAN NOODLES
This is a delicious vegan Korean noodle dish that is typically served cold, but is also very good hot! Korean meets vegan in this quick and easy japchae recipe: a chewy and crunchy medley of glass noodles, spinach, mushrooms, green onions, and carrots.
Provided by Melissa
Categories 100+ Pasta and Noodle Recipes Noodle Recipes
Time 27m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil; stir in noodles and return to a boil. Cook noodles uncovered, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 5 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Toss noodles with 2 teaspoons sesame oil. Cut into shorter pieces using kitchen shears.
- Combine soy sauce and sugar in a bowl.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Saute carrots and onion until soft, about 1 minute. Add mushrooms, green onions, and garlic. Saute until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the noodles, soy sauce mixture, and spinach. Cook and stir until noodles are heated through, 2 to 3 minutes more. Remove from heat. Toss in remaining 1 tablespoon sesame oil and sesame seeds.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 454.8 calories, Carbohydrate 73.5 g, Fat 12.3 g, Fiber 6.5 g, Protein 13 g, SaturatedFat 1.7 g, Sodium 1551.8 mg, Sugar 10.9 g
VEGETARIAN KOREAN NOODLES (JAPCHAE)
Provided by Giada De Laurentiis
Categories main-dish
Time 40m
Yield 4 to 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 16
Steps:
- For the sauce: Combine the sugar, tamari, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil and ginger in a small bowl. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
- For the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and stir to help submerge them. Cook until the noodles are just barely cooked, 6 to 8 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water. Using kitchen shears or a clean pair of scissors, cut the noodles into approximately 8-inch lengths. Set aside.
- Heat the grapeseed oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the oyster and shiitake mushrooms and cook, stirring often with a wooden spoon, for about 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are beginning to brown. Add the shallots and 1/4 teaspoon salt and cook until fragrant, another 2 minutes. Add the red pepper, garlic and scallions to the pan, reduce the heat to medium-high and cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until the peppers are beginning to soften. Add the kale and the cooked noodles and saute another 3 minutes, stirring often to coat the noodles in the oil and to wilt the kale. Add the sauce and toss to coat. Top with sesame seeds if desired.
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables, flavorful sauce, and chewy noodles are essential for a delicious japchae.
- Cut the vegetables into uniform pieces: This will help them cook evenly.
- Soak the noodles in cold water for at least 30 minutes before cooking: This will help them soften and become more pliable.
- Stir-fry the vegetables over high heat: This will help them retain their crunch.
- Add the noodles and sauce to the pan and toss to coat: Be careful not to overcook the noodles.
- Serve japchae warm or at room temperature: It can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.
Conclusion:
This vegetarian Korean noodle dish is a delicious and healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion. With its colorful vegetables, chewy noodles, and flavorful sauce, japchae is sure to please everyone at the table. So next time you're looking for a new and exciting dish to try, give japchae a try!
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