This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Japchae is a popular Korean stir-fried noodle dish made with chewy sweet potato glass noodles (dangmyeon), vibrant vegetables, and a savory-sweet soy-based sauce. Traditionally, it features a mix of sautéed carrots, spinach, onions, mushrooms, and sometimes beef or tofu for added protein. The key to japchae’s signature texture and flavor is stir-frying each ingredient separately before tossing everything together, ensuring perfect balance in every bite. Light yet flavorful, japchae is often served as a side dish (banchan) or enjoyed as a main course, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing favorite in Korean cuisine.
Sweet Potato Glass Noodles: The Key to Japchae’s Chewy Texture
Japchae is made with sweet potato glass noodles, also known as dangmyeon, which give the dish its signature chewy and bouncy texture. Unlike wheat-based noodles, these translucent noodles are made purely from sweet potato starch and water, making them naturally gluten-free. When cooked, they absorb the savory-sweet flavors of the sauce while maintaining their springy bite. Their ability to stay firm without turning mushy makes them perfect for stir-frying. For authentic japchae, dangmyeon is essential, providing the ideal texture that sets this dish apart.
Essential Ingredients for Japchae: What You Need for the Perfect Korean Glass Noodles
Japchae’s signature chewy texture and balanced sweet-savory flavor come from a combination of carefully selected ingredients. Here are the key components that make this dish authentic and delicious:
1. Sweet Potato Glass Noodles (Dangmyeon)
The foundation of japchae, dangmyeon are translucent, chewy noodles made from sweet potato starch. Unlike wheat-based noodles, they have a naturally springy texture that absorbs sauce beautifully.
2. Soy Sauce
A rich umami base, Korean soy sauce (ganjang) is preferred for its deep, slightly sweet flavor. It gives japchae its signature savory taste.
3. Sesame Oil
A must-have for authentic japchae, toasted sesame oil enhances the dish with a nutty aroma and silky finish.
4. Sugar or Honey
Japchae has a subtle sweetness, traditionally achieved with sugar or honey. This balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables.
5. Vegetables (Carrots, Spinach, Mushrooms, Onions, Bell Peppers)
Japchae is known for its vibrant mix of veggies, which provide both flavor and texture. Common additions include:
- Carrots & bell peppers – Add color and crunch.
- Spinach – A soft, slightly earthy contrast.
- Mushrooms (shiitake or oyster) – Boost umami depth.
- Onions – Enhance sweetness when stir-fried.
6. Garlic
Freshly minced garlic adds a fragrant, savory depth to the sauce and stir-fried ingredients.
7. Protein (Beef, Tofu, or Eggs)
While optional, thinly sliced beef, scrambled eggs, or tofu make japchae heartier. Beef is usually marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil before stir-frying.
8. Sesame Seeds
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top adds the final touch of crunch and nuttiness.
Japchae – Korean Glass Noodles
Ingredients
- 200 g Korean sweet potato noodles
- ½ tbsp sugar, (adjust to taste)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce, (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 handful sliced carrots
- 1 handful sliced onions
- 1 handful sliced bell peppers
- 3 shitake mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 large handful spinach
- ½ lb thin sliced steak
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 large egg
- 2 green onions
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Boil your sweet potato noodles according to package instructions or until softened. (5-7 minutes)200 g Korean sweet potato noodles
- Strain and lightly rinse with cold water.
- Season with soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil.½ tbsp sugar, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Cut your veggies into thin slices and set aside.1 handful sliced carrots, 1 handful sliced onions, 1 handful sliced bell peppers, 3 shitake mushrooms, 3 cloves garlic
- Season your thin sliced steak with soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil.½ lb thin sliced steak, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp sesame oil
- Fry steak in a hot pan then set aside.
- Sitr fry all your vegetables in the same wok, season with salt and sesame oil. Once softened, add it to your noodles along with the beef.1 handful sliced carrots, 1 handful sliced onions, 1 handful sliced bell peppers, 3 shitake mushrooms, 1 large handful spinach, 3 cloves garlic
- Beat an egg and cook it on a flat pan without stirring. Once cooked, cut into strips and add to the noodles as well.2 green onions
- Finish with green onions and sesame seeds, season to taste.1 large egg, 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
