If you’re looking for a flavor-packed, vibrant dish that captures the heart of Korean cuisine, this Authentic Korean Japchae Noodles Recipe is a must-try! Made with sweet potato starch noodles (dangmyeon), colorful vegetables, savory beef (optional), and a perfectly balanced soy-based sauce, japchae is a beloved dish enjoyed on Korean holidays, special occasions, or as a standout side or main dish.
Not only is this Korean Japchae Noodles Recipe naturally gluten-free, but it’s also highly customizable and incredibly satisfying with its unique chewy texture and sweet-savory flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Authentic Korean Japchae Noodles Recipe
Classic Korean flavors with real, authentic ingredients
Gluten-free and easily made vegan
Beautifully colorful and nutritious
Works as a main dish or banchan (Korean side dish)
Great for meal prep and gatherings
Whether served hot or cold, japchae is one of Korea’s most iconic noodle dishes—and for good reason!
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
8 oz (225g) sweet potato starch noodles (dangmyeon)
For the Sauce:
4 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
1½ tbsp sesame oil
1½ tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp ground black pepper
Vegetables & Add-Ins:
1 small carrot, julienned
½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
3 oz spinach, blanched
4–5 shiitake mushrooms (rehydrated if dried), sliced
2 scallions, cut into 2-inch strips
Optional: 5 oz thinly sliced beef (like ribeye or sirloin), marinated
Sesame seeds for garnish
Substitutions
Noodles: No dangmyeon? Use rice noodles or glass noodles as an alternative.
Beef: Swap with chicken, tofu, or skip for a vegan version.
Vegetables: Use broccoli, snow peas, or zucchini depending on what’s in season.
Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos work for gluten-free diets.
How to Make Authentic Korean Japchae Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Boil water and cook sweet potato noodles according to package instructions (usually 6–7 minutes).
Drain and rinse under cold water. Cut with scissors if needed and toss with 1 tsp sesame oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Sauté onions, carrots, and peppers separately in a lightly oiled skillet over medium-high heat.
Sauté mushrooms and spinach. Set all aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef (Optional)
Marinate sliced beef in 1 tbsp soy sauce, ½ tbsp sesame oil, and ½ tsp sugar for 10–15 minutes.
Sauté until fully cooked. Set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until sugar is dissolved.
Step 5: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine noodles, vegetables, beef (if using), and sauce.
Toss everything well until evenly coated.
Serve warm or chilled, garnished with sesame seeds and more scallions.
Mix-ins & Flavor Ideas
Add a soft-boiled egg on top for richness
Include wood ear mushrooms or mung bean sprouts for extra crunch
Add a dash of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for heat
Drizzle a bit of honey or mirin for added sweetness
Japchae Cooking Tips
Cook each ingredient separately for the best texture and color
Don’t overcook the noodles—they should stay chewy
Let noodles absorb the sauce for a few minutes before serving
Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Reheating: Microwave or lightly stir-fry with a splash of water or soy sauce
Freezing: Not recommended—noodles may become mushy when thawed
Recipe Variations
Vegetarian Japchae: Skip the meat or use sautéed tofu
Spicy Japchae: Add gochujang or gochugaru for a spicy twist
Japchae Rice Bowl: Serve warm japchae over steamed rice with a fried egg
Japchae Spring Rolls: Wrap chilled japchae in rice paper with lettuce and herbs
FAQs – Authentic Korean Japchae Noodles Recipe
Q: Can I make Japchae in advance?
Yes! It tastes great at room temperature or chilled—perfect for meal prep and gatherings.
Q: Are Korean sweet potato noodles gluten-free?
Yes, dangmyeon noodles are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the label.
Q: Why do you cook each ingredient separately?
It helps preserve the texture, flavor, and vibrant color of each vegetable.
Q: Can I serve japchae cold?
Definitely! Japchae is delicious both warm and cold, making it versatile for any season.
This Authentic Korean Japchae Noodles Recipe delivers on every level—chewy noodles, bold flavors, and gorgeous presentation. Whether you’re making it for a Korean-themed dinner or craving something fresh and healthy, this dish will always impress.
Authentic Korean Japchae Noodles Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Knife
- pot for boiling noodles
Ingredients
- 8 oz Korean sweet potato glass noodles dangmyeon
- 6 oz beef ribeye or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 small carrot julienned
- 1/2 onion thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 3 oz spinach
- 3 shiitake mushrooms sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce for beef
- 1 tsp sugar for beef
- 2 tsp sesame oil for beef
- 3 tbsp soy sauce for noodles
- 2 tsp sugar for noodles
- 2 tsp sesame oil for noodles
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the glass noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Cut into shorter lengths with scissors and toss with 1 tsp sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- In a bowl, marinate the sliced beef with 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, and 2 tsp sesame oil for 10 minutes.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tbsp oil. Stir-fry carrots, onions, red pepper, and mushrooms for 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove and set aside.
- Add marinated beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Quickly stir-fry spinach until wilted, then remove.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, vegetables, and beef. Add 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tsp sugar, 2 tsp sesame oil, and garlic. Mix well.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Top with sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
- Slice vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- Marinate beef for best flavor.
- Japchae can be served warm or at room temperature.
