Japchae Recipe Korean Easy

The Easiest Japchae Recipe Ever – Authentic Korean Glass Noodles in 30 Minutes

Japchae is one of my absolute favorite Korean dishes. I remember the first time I tried it at a small family-owned Korean restaurant—it was love at first bite! The chewy glass noodles, the savory-sweet sauce, the tender beef, and the colorful vegetables made for a dish that felt like a celebration in every bite. I knew I had to learn how to make it at home, but at first, I was intimidated. Would it be too complicated? Would I get the balance of flavors just right?

After experimenting with several recipes (and getting inspiration from Maangchi and Bapsang, two incredible Korean food bloggers), I finally created the perfect Japchae recipe – Korean, easy, and authentic! And today, I’m excited to share it with you.

If you love Korean food, Asian food, street food, or even if you’ve seen Japchae featured in a Mukbang Korean video and thought, “I need to try that!”—this recipe is for you. The best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes and doesn’t require fancy ingredients. Let’s dive in!

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What is Japchae?

Japchae (\장\체) is a popular Korean stir-fried noodle dish made with glass noodles (dangmyeon), beef, and assorted vegetables, all tossed in a flavorful soy sauce-based dressing. Originally a royal dish served in the Joseon Dynasty, Japchae has become a staple at Korean celebrations, holidays, and everyday meals.

While traditional Japchae requires cooking each ingredient separately, my simple Japchae recipe simplifies the process without compromising flavor. It’s a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami, making it one of the best Korean dishes you can make at home.

Ingredients for Japchae (Serves 4-5)

For the noodles and protein:

6 ounces (170g) glass noodles (Korean dangmyeon)

6 ounces (170g) beef (ribeye or sirloin), thinly sliced

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the vegetables:

1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced

1 small carrot, julienned

4-5 shiitake mushrooms, sliced

1/2 red bell pepper, julienned

1 1/2 cups fresh spinach

1 teaspoon sesame oil (for spinach)

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Japchae sauce:

3 tablespoons soy sauce

1 1/2 tablespoons sugar

1 1/2 tablespoons sesame oil

1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

For garnish:

1 teaspoon sesame seeds

1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (for final touch)

How to Make Japchae in 30 Minutes

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

1. Soak the glass noodles in warm water for 10 minutes until softened.

2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the noodles for 6-7 minutes until soft and chewy.

3. Drain the noodles, rinse them under cold water, and toss with 1 teaspoon sesame oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Marinate and Cook the Beef

1. a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, minced garlic, and black pepper.

2. Add the thinly sliced beef and marinate for 10 minutes.

3. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and cook the beef for 2-3 minutes until browned. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-fry the Vegetables

1. Heat 1 teaspoon sesame oil in a pan and sauté the onions for 1 minute.

2. Add carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms, stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes.

3. Blanch the spinach in boiling water for 30 seconds, then drain and toss with 1 teaspoon sesame oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Step 4: Make the Japchae Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, honey, black pepper, garlic, and sesame seeds.

2. Stir well until the sugar dissolves.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. In a large bowl, combine glass noodles, beef, vegetables, and sauce.

2. Toss everything together until evenly coated.

3. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil.

Amazon Product Recommendations

1. Kaset Bean Thread Glass Noodles

If you want authentic chewy glass noodles, I highly recommend Kaset Bean Thread Glass Noodles. These noodles hold their texture beautifully and absorb flavors well.

Grab yours on Amazon and make Japchae like a pro!

2. Kikkoman Premium Soy Sauce

For the best balance of sweet, salty, and umami, use a high-quality soy sauce like Kikkoman Premium Soy Sauce.

Upgrade your pantry with this must-have ingredient!

3. Chung Jung One Sesame Oil

A drizzle of rich sesame oil makes all the difference in Japchae. Chung Jung One Sesame Oil adds an incredible nutty aroma.

Add authentic Korean flavors to your cooking today!

Pro Tips for the Best Japchae

Avoid soggy noodles: Rinse with cold water after boiling and coat with sesame oil.

Tender beef: Thinly slice it against the grain and marinate well.

Balance flavors: Adjust sweetness and saltiness to your taste.

Vegetarian twist: Swap beef for tofu or extra mushrooms.

Japchae in Korean Culture & Food Trends

Japchae is not just a dish—it’s a cultural experience. Whether enjoyed at a traditional Korean celebration, in street food stalls, or even in Mukbang Korean videos, Japchae holds a special place in Korean cuisine. It’s a dish that brings people together, and now, you can make it in your own kitchen!

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

I hope you enjoy making this simple and authentic Japchae recipe! It’s one of my go-to meals when I want something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts in the comments or tag me on social media. And don’t forget to check out the Amazon recommendations above to make your Japchae even better.

Happy cooking!