JapChae Recipe (Korean Stir Fry Noodles) (2024)

FAQs

What are japchae noodles made of? ›

Japchae is typically prepared with dangmyeon (당면, 唐麵), a type of cellophane noodles made from sweet potato starch; the noodles are mixed with assorted vegetables, meat, and mushrooms, and seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil.

Made with chewy, slippery sweet potato noodles (dangmyeon) which are available in large grocery stores, though can be substitute with glass noodles (bean thread noodles) or vermicelli noodles in a pinch. Makes a big batch – leftovers make for a terrific lunch!

For traditional japchae, the chewy and springy noodles are nicely paired with thin strips of beef (or pork) and various vegetables in a slightly sweet and savory sauce. It's also common to add an egg garnish (jidan, 지단). Sometimes, I also sprinkle with some finely chopped pine nuts.

Traditional japchae is already a relatively healthy dish, with the inclusion of so many antioxidant and fiber rich vegetables: red bell pepper, green bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, orange bell pepper, onions, spinach, carrots.

Glass noodles are light and almost transparent, so any hues are a bad sign. Strange smells are also signs that the noodles are no longer edible. If your noodles have taken on a slimy texture, they won't just be unpleasant to eat, they could also be dangerous and spoiled.

Shirakiku Korean Japchae Glass Noodles With Vegetables (1 package) contains 46g total carbs, 44g net carbs, 2g fat, 2g protein, and 210 calories.

If you can't find them, you can usually use rice vermicelli (for chilled salads or spring rolls), soba noodles (for dishes like stir-fries) or angel hair pasta (for most soups) in their place.

Optional: To keep from noodles sticking together, add a dash of sesame oil and mix until noodles are evenly coated.

Glass noodles are fat-free and great for weight-loss diets. Reducing fats in your meal will combat obesity, cardiovascular disease, and several other metabolic disorders. Cellophane noodles are also a great source of iron. Getting enough iron in your diet ensures that oxygen is transported through the body.

Japchae is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or cold! Here are some suggestions: Main meal – enjoy with a side of kimchi. Side dish – pairs especially well with bulgogi or mandu (Korean dumplings)

Should japchae be hot or cold? ›

The beauty of japchae is that you can eat it hot, room temperature, or even cold. It makes a great on-the-go lunch, as the noodles don't get soggy and there's a nice balance of vegetables and starch. This dish is also nice for potlucks, as it doesn't have to be served hot.

It's made with bouncy sweet potato noodles and loaded with veggies, eggs, and optionally meat, which makes it perfect as a meal on its own or served as a side with dishes like beef bulgogi, Korean volcano steamed eggs, and dwaeji galbijjim. It's also a perfect side for Korean BBQ!

Kelp noodles are best for a stir fry, or dishes that call for thin noodles, Vu says. If you're looking to keep calories as low as you can, use them in place of rice or ramen noodles.

Dinner in 30 - This Korean Japchae takes just 30 minute to prepare, so it's great for busy weeknights. It also stays good in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, so leftovers are good as well!

There's a lot to prep for japchae—there's no avoiding that, given the many components and the different preparations for them—but the good news is that it can all be done well in advance of serving. The japchae can then be refrigerated for a day or two and reheated in a skillet before serving.

Cellophane noodles, or fensi (traditional Chinese: 粉絲; simplified Chinese: 粉丝; pinyin: fěnsī; lit. 'flour thread'), sometimes called glass noodles, are a type of transparent noodle made from starch (such as mung bean starch, potato starch, sweet potato starch, tapioca, or canna starch) and water.

Rice noodles are often considered one of the healthiest options available. They are naturally gluten-free, low in fat, and easy to digest. P'Nut Asian Kitchen incorporates rice noodles into many of their dishes, including the popular Pad Thai and Wonton Noodle Soup.

Glass noodles, also known as cellophane or bean thread noodles, have become a popular option for those seeking gluten-free and low-calorie alternatives. These translucent noodles, often made from starches like sweet potato offer a unique texture and versatility in the kitchen.